Abstract: An actuator in one embodiment includes a threaded shaft; a shaft engaging portion coupled to the threaded shaft, the shaft engaging portion being moveable in a direction parallel to an axis of the threaded shaft upon a relative rotation between the threaded shaft and the shaft engaging portion; and a ceramic bushing coupled to the shaft engaging portion, the bushing encircling the threaded shaft.

Abstract: An actuator in one embodiment includes a threaded shaft; a shaft engaging portion coupled to the threaded shaft, the shad engaging portion being moveable in a direction parallel to an axis of the threaded shaft upon a relative rotation between the threaded shaft and the shaft engaging portion; and a ceramic bushing coupled to the shaft engaging portion, the bushing encircling the threaded shaft.

Abstract: An actuator including a threaded shaft and a carriage having a shaft engaging portion coupled to the threaded shaft. The carriage is moveable in a direction parallel to an axis of the threaded shaft upon a relative rotation between the threaded shaft and the shaft engaging portion. A ceramic bushing is coupled to the shaft engaging portion of the carriage, the bushing surrounding the threaded shaft. The ceramic bushing is much harder than heretofore used materials and results in greatly reduced particulate formation. The carriage or portion thereof can be formed around the bushing, e.g., by injection molding.

Abstract: A device for heating a workpiece located in a primary direction of heating relative to the device, the device comprising a heating element, and a thermal shield adjacent the heating element for inhibiting heat conduction and radiation from the heating element to the workpiece in directions other than the primary direction of heating. In one embodiment, the heating element does not extend beyond the thermal shield in the primary direction of heating.

Abstract: A method is provided for providing air-skiving edges of a tape head. A slot is created in an upper face of a substrate of a tape head. The slot includes at least one edge defining an edge of a tape bearing surface (TBS) of the tape head. The surface of the tape head is then formed and finished, such as by lapping. A grind operation is subsequently conducted to form a notch in the upper face of the substrate of the tape head. Such notch extends from the slot to an outside end of the substrate of the tape head.