Head-disk interface modeling with the lattice Boltzmann method

A novel methodology based on the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) is proposed for the prediction of air-bearing performance. We examined the feasibility of out method by using the second-order slip model as a case study. Extension of our approach using the database obtained from the Boltzmann transport equation (BTE) can be performed to develop an air-bearing design tool for complex geometry. LBM can enhance accuracy and numerical efficiency as well as easy hybridization with lubricants modeling and can be better suitable for an advanced head-disk interface (HDI) design, including the heat-assisted magnetic recording.