Abstract: An improved air flow system in a sealed data recording disk file directs selected portions of the air flow from the periphery of the stack of rotating disks to specific heat generating components in the disk file. A converging duct is attached to the disk file housing and has its inlet located in close proximity to the periphery of the rotating disks. The outlet of the converging duct is located adjacent to the voice coil motor (VCM) actuator and oriented such that the flow exiting the outlet is perpendicular to the linear path of the VCM. The outlet of the duct has an area smaller than that of the inlet so that there is an increase in velocity of the exiting air, which increases the cooling rate of the VCM. The converging duct includes a shield which is located adjacent the duct inlet and curved to coincide generally with the periphery of the disks in the disk stack.

Abstract: A filtering means is provided in a data recording disk file for filtering air flowing from the region of the spindle bearings into the head/disk area of the disk file. The filtering means is mounted to the disk file frame adjacent the rotary shaft of the spindle and together with the shaft defines a narrow annular gap for the flow of a very small portion of the total air flow from the region surrounding the spindle bearings. The filtering means includes first and second ring members which have axially-directed openings and which together support filter material located between the ring members. The primary portion of the air flow from the spindle bearings passes through the axially-directed openings of the ring members and the filter material and is thus filtered before entering the head/disk area.