Recirculating filter for a data storage device

A filter assembly for a data storage device wherein one or more rotating data storage discs form a disc stack, wherein the moving disc stack imparts a velocity to a fluid surrounding the disc resulting in a generally outwardly spiraling fluid flow, the filter assembly comprising:

• a fluid flow guide, comprising:
• a shroud disposable substantially transverse to the disc comprising an arcuate surface in a closely mating relationship with the disc edge;
• and
• a recessed surface disposable radially outwardly from the disc and cooperatively with the shroud defining a fluid passageway;
• first edges in the shroud defining an inlet to the passageway;
• at least a second edge in the shroud defining an outlet from the passageway;
• and
• a filter supportable by the fluid flow guide within the passageway defining a first chamber in the passageway between a portion of the shroud and the filter and fluidly connected to the inlet, and defining a second chamber in the passageway between the filter and the recessed surface fluidly connected to the outlet, wherein the filter guides the fluid flow from the first chamber to the second chamber toward the outlet and back to the disc stack.

A method for filtering fluid that is recirculated through a disc stack having one or more moving data storage discs in a data storage device, the method comprising:

• providing a shroud around the disc stack in a substantially closely fitting arrangement with the edge of the disc;
• establishing an inlet and an outlet in the shroud and a passageway fluidly connecting the inlet and outlet for receiving fluid flowing from the disc stack and returning the fluid to the disc stack;
• and
• positioning a curved filter in the fluid flow path at the inlet such that the concave side of the filter engages upstream side of the fluid at the inlet and guiding the fluid flow toward the outlet.