Patent ID: 8562222
Filing Date: 2013-10-22
Classification: F16C,G11B

Abstract:
1. An apparatus, comprising: a spindle having a spindle axis, and first and second ends; a hub disposed coaxially to the spindle, that is rotatable relative to the spindle axis; a first thrust bearing adjacent to the first end of the spindle; a second thrust bearing adjacent to the second end of the spindle; a journal bearing disposed between the first and second thrust bearings to limit the radial movement of the hub as the hub rotates about the spindle axis; a first fluid seal that includes a fluid pump disposed to pump fluid toward the first thrust bearing, adjacent to the first thrust bearing; a second fluid seal adjacent to the second thrust bearing; a channel that circulates a lubricant fluid between the first and second fluid seals to purge air; a first thrust washer adjacent to the first end of the spindle, wherein the first fluid seal includes a circumferential pattern of lands and grooves formed in a face of the first thrust washer facing the hub; and a ring seal having a first circumferential groove with a barrier film coating formed in the first thrust washer between the pattern of lands and grooves formed in the face of the first thrust washer and the first end of the spindle, and having a second circumferential groove with a barrier film coating formed in a face of the hub facing the first circumferential groove.