Abstract: An apparatus and associated method for constructing an abrading tool having a desired surface texture for a lapping surface of the tool. The abrading tool has a platen defining an external surface and a cavity intersecting the external surface. An adhesive is disposed in the cavity. An abrasive member is adhered at a proximal end thereof to the platen in the cavity by the adhesive so that the abrasive member extends beyond the external surface at a distal end thereof to define the lapping surface.

Abstract: An apparatus and associated method for constructing an abrading tool having a desired surface texture for a lapping surface of the tool. The abrading tool has a platen defining an external surface and a cavity intersecting the external surface. An adhesive is disposed in the cavity. An abrasive member is adhered at a proximal end thereof to the platen in the cavity by the adhesive so that the abrasive member extends beyond the external surface at a distal end thereof to define the lapping surface.

Abstract: A system for charging lapping plates incorporates the use of individual ceramic inserts that are mounted into a stainless steel frame to form a novel charging tool. The charging tool is rotated clockwise against a counterclockwise rotating tin plate. This configuration performs a rapid diamond impregnation into the plate without scraping off the diamond slurry from the plate. This design uses the diamond material in the plate charging slurry very efficiently. The inserts may be formed from high density ceramic in a round or cylindrical pad-like design. This design allows high pressure contact between the inserts and the tin plate. As a result, the amount of time required to charge a plate is greatly reduced and only a small fraction of the diamond slurry is wasted, thereby producing a higher yield than prior art systems.