Simulated trajectories of particles and the number of particles trapped by the circulating filter in a hard disk drive

The particle trajectories and the number of them trapped by circulating filter of a 2.5 inch dual platter hard disk drive (HDD) were numerically investigated using a transition shear stress transport turbulence model (transition SST). Four head gimbal assemblies (HGAs) were placed at the outer diameter positions where tiny particles of alumina were released. The simulation revealed the results of airflow, particle trajectories and efficiency of a circulating filter. This result can be applied as fundamental information to design HDD layout in order to reduce its contamination. © (2014) Trans Tech Publications, Switzerland.