NOISE & VIBRATION SOLUTIONS

COMPUTER & DISK DRIVES

Disk Drive CLD Damping Design/Optimization

Problem: Manufacturers of hard disk drives for the computer and consumer electronics industries are constantly exploring ways to increase product performance while decreasing noise and vibration – conflicting demands that present a formidable design challenge.

Noise and vibration in hard disk drives is not only bothersome, it can also cause problems with the control and stability of the drive’s servo-mechanical system. Roush took on this challenge, addressing the problem of excessive noise and vibration of the disk drive top cover. Typically, these covers are thin stamped metal plates that easily radiate noise generated from internal operating components.

Solution: Analysis and resolution of vibration and resultant noise in hard disk drives requires advanced techniques in modeling, analysis and testing, as well as expertise in materials technologies. Roush applied this expertise to studying structural dynamic behavior and acoustic radiation, which has resulted in the development of a variety of damping solutions that effectively reduce the noise and vibration level of disk drives. Our knowledge of damping materials and polymer science has enabled us to develop optimum materials for use as constrained-layer damping (CLD) systems.

Result: Recognizing an industry need, Roush developed an effective solution that could be manufactured to meet specific customer requirements. We now supply damping material products to a number of disk drive manufacturers. The materials we developed not only provide significant damping levels, they do so with low cost and low outgassing. Roush’s products have been proven to perform the best in CLD applications for disk drive top covers.