Filter system

Abstract

A filter element assembly has at least two cylindrically shaped and concentrically arranged filter media sleeves each connected at one end thereof to an inlet plate and each connected at the other end to a closed end terminal plate. Openings are provided in the inlet plate to permit entry of liquid to be filtered into the annular space between the filter sleeves. The closed end terminal plate prevents flow of unfiltered liquid from the annular space between the sleeves so as to force the liquid through the porous media of the sleeves to effect filtration.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates generally to the field of liquid filtration devices and more particularly to filter elements and filter element assemblies known as bag filters and cartridge filters. In particular, this invention is directed to a filter element assembly, for use in a bag filter system or in a cartridge filter system, and has at least two concentrically arranged filter media sleeves connected at one end by an inlet end plate and at the other end by a terminal end plate, and which is adapted to be disposed within a generally cylindrical filter housing.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Bag and cartridge filter systems for liquid filtration are well known in the art and generally comprise a cylindrically shaped filter vessel typically closed at one end, with a removable or openable cap at the other end. Inlet and outlet conduits are connected to the vessel for delivering liquid to be filtered thereto and for removing filtered liquid therefrom. Replaceable filter elements are arranged within the cylindrical vessel in order to filter liquids entering the vessel. Typically bag filters consist of filter media having an open upper end and a closed bottom. The filter bag is usually supported within the vessel within an open mesh tubular basket or cage which is typically suspended within the housing. The basket is intended to support the media of the filter bag to prevent it from bursting as the bag fills with liquid. An example of such a well known filter bag arrangement is shown in the U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,285,814 and 4,669,167. Typical cartridge filters consist of a filter medium (such as filter paper) which is frequently pleated and in which the edges of the medium are brought together to form a cylindrical configuration with the pleats extending either axially or longitudinally. The edges are typically joined together with an adhesive, stitching or other means to maintain the cylindrical configuration. It is also common for the pleated media to be supported by a perforated cylindrical outer cage. End caps are typically received on either end of the filter element with appropriate adhesive being applied between the end caps and the media. One of the end caps has a central opening such that fluid passing radially through the filter media is allowed to flow through the opening to an outlet passage in the housing. Fluid to be filtered typically enters the housing so that it is caused to pass from the outside of the cylindrical configuration radially through the filter medium to the interior space in the center of the cylindrical configuration and then out through an opening in an end cap. An example of such a cartridge is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,609,465. Filter cartridges of the foregoing type have become quite popular.

[0004] One disadvantage of the popular cartridge is that the flow of liquid to be filtered is from the outside of the element to its inner core resulting in dirt or contaminants remaining behind in the housing when the cartridge element is removed from its housing for replacement. Filter bag arrangements have numerous advantages over cartridge systems. One such advantage is that the liquid to be filtered enters the filter bag at its open end so that the liquid can pass through the porous side-walls of the bag and filtered liquid can exit the filter vessel from the space between the outer bag surface and the inner wall of the vessel. In this manner dirt or contaminants can be contained within the bag and easily removed upon opening the vessel, allowing replacement with a clean filter bag. However, this typical arrangement presents a number of severe limitations which inhibits the use of bag filters for certain applications. These limitations relate to the fact that bag filter vessels are typically larger than cartridge housings, but the bag filter elements provide only a limited active filtration surface area and limited life. Bag filters also have a large volume of liquid within the enclosed volume of the bag. If the contours and shape of the bottom of the bag filter does not exactly coincide with the contours and shape of the retaining basket, filter bags will have a tendency to burst as a result of the large volume of liquid which it contains. As a result, most bag filter media can not be manufactured from high efficiency filtration media which is usually more delicate than the more coarse filter media typically used in liquid filter bags. The typical filter bag is also difficult to insert and remove from the vessel as it has no rigid structure other than possibly a retaining ring at the open top end. Filter bags rarely provide a reliable bypass seal even when constructed with elastomeric sealing members at the open top end.

[0005] Because filter bags have a large holding volume for liquid, removal of a used bag is quite difficult since the bag is typically filled with liquid, which makes the bag heavy and may contain hazardous substances. In order to alleviate this situation, evacuation balloons are frequently used inside the bags to reduce the liquid holding capacity. Handling of such balloons, however, is cumbersome and usually does not overcome this problem. A well known conventional filter bag designated as a “#2” has a liquid holding capacity of 4.3 gallons. Depending upon the specific gravity of the liquid within the bag, a full bag could weigh thirty pounds or more. This is difficult to remove from the filter vessel and since the removal of such a bag from the vessel typically involves contact with a side wall of the vessel, breakage of the bag during removal is not uncommon. This invariably results in contamination of the area around the vessel.

[0006] When the typical bag is inserted into a cylindrical or conical basket, the bottom of the bag is required to conform to the shape of the basket in three dimensions even though the bag may be manufactured from flat media, i.e., two dimensional. As a result, the filter bags rarely, if ever, fit correctly into the bottom of the basket. To overcome this problem, manufacturers have usually produced oversized bags, longer than the basket, in order to permit forcing of the bottom surface of the bag into the entire contour of the basket. As a result, much of the filter media tends to fold over onto itself and render much of the filter surface unusable. If the filter media is not fully seated in the basket it usually results in the bag bursting along the bottom of the bag as a result of the liquid pressure on the bottom surface.

[0007] There have been numerous attempts to design variations of the bag filter in order to minimize the liquid holding capacity while increasing the filtration surface area. One such design in shown in Smith U.S. Pat. No. 4,081,379. In the Smith patent a filter bag design has two rings of different diameters. The outer ring is affixed to the top of the body of the vessel, while the inner ring is seated within the outer ring and generally located on a plane below the outer ring in order to form an annularly shaped filter bag that is continuous from the outer to the inner ring. The particular shape of the annular filter bag provides more available surface than the conventional filter bag but it is difficult to produce as it requires manufacture of a complex shape and it does not provide for positive support of the filtration media within a basket. The Smith design typically involves a sleeve made from a single piece of material which is turned inward to form the inner filter. This results in relatively sharp corners which are difficult to insert into the basket. The Smith bag is not positively supported in a retaining basket and is thus also prone to bursting. It is not uncommon to require the use of a special tool in order to insert this type of bag into a vessel.

[0008] Other variations of this design is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,749,485 which proposes a triangularly shaped filter; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,484,529 which discloses a cylindrically shaped filter bag which includes a retaining bottom end cap. This is intended to overcome the problem of fitting a filter bag into a basket but does not result in any increased filtration filter area.

[0009] It is accordingly a general object of the invention to provide a filter bag and filter bag assembly intended to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art. It is another general object of the invention to provide a filter element assembly, using the principals of the invention to overcome many of the disadvantages of the bag systems and other disadvantages of the cartridge system.

[0010] A more specific object of the present invention is to provide a filter element assembly which has at least two cylindrically shaped and concentrically arranged filter sleeves, each connected at one end thereof to an inlet plate, which inlet plate has means to permit entry of liquid to be filtered into the annular space between the filter sleeves. Each sleeve is connected at its other end to a closed end plate preventing flow of unfiltered liquid from the annular space between the sleeves so as to force the liquid through the porous media of the sleeves to effect filtration.

[0011] Yet another object of the invention is to provide a filter assembly which achieves increased dirt holding capacity and increased filtration surface area while minimizing liquid capacity.

[0012] A still further object of this invention is to provide a liquid filtration element usable in bag filter type vessels which will permit the use of a second stage filter element within the same housing.

[0013] A further object of the invention is to provide a liquid filter assembly for use in bag filter systems permitting inline, inlet and outlet conduits, such as commonly used in cartridge systems.

[0014] Yet another object of the invention is to provide a liquid filter element assembly for use in cartridge filter systems so that dirt or contaminants are retained in the annular space between the filter sleeves and thus removed from the housing when the filter element is removed.

[0015] The above objects, features and advantages, along with other objects, features and advantages will become more apparent from the detailed description of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings to be described more fully hereinafter.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The present invention is directed to an improved liquid filter element for use in bag type filter systems and for use in cartridge type filter systems.

[0017] The filter element assembly of the present invention includes at least two concentrically arranged cylindrically shaped filter sleeves made of porous filter media and which are connected at one end thereof to an inlet plate and at the other end thereof to a terminal or end plate. The inlet plate has inlet holes to allow liquid to enter the annular space between the concentrically arranged cylinders so that filtration of contaminants in the liquid can take place as the liquid passes through both the outer cylinder, into the space between the outer sleeve and the inner wall of the vessel, and through the inner cylinder into the interior space in the center of the inner cylinder. The terminal plate has a single central opening which is smaller in diameter than the diameter of the inner cylinder. Contaminated fluid enters the filter element assembly through the holes in the inlet plate. Contaminated material will thus remain within the annular space formed between the concentric cylinders and between the inlet and terminal plates. Liquid to be filtered will pass through the porous cylinder walls. In one embodiment, the foregoing assembly is collapsible and can be supported within a basket having perforated cylindrical walls or wire mesh walls thus preventing the cylindrical filter walls from bursting, while allowing the liquid to pass through the basket. The filter element assembly and the basket can thus be placed within a typical cylindrical filter vessel having inlet and outlet conduits as well as means for sealing the filter element assembly within the vessel to prevent any bypass of unfiltered liquid around the filter assembly.

[0018] In another embodiment, the filter element assembly is supported by an outer cylindrical perforated cage, which is connected to at least one end cap adapted to be supported in a standard cartridge filter housing. A perforated inner core element may also be used to support the inner sleeve of filter media.

[0019] The foregoing and other features of the present invention are more fully described with reference to the following drawings annexed hereto.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] FIG. 1 is a side and partial cutaway sectional view of a filter bag assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] FIG. 2 is a perspective view, partially cut away and shown in section, of the inlet plate shown in FIG. 1;

[0022] FIG. 3 is a perspective view, partially cut away and shown in section, of the terminal plate shown in FIG. 1;

[0023] FIG. 4 is a sectional view of yet another embodiment of the present invention depicted within a filter vessel;

[0024] FIG. 5 is a side view, partially cut away and shown in section of yet another embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] FIG. 6 is a sectional view depicting a sealing mechanism used in the present invention;

[0026] FIG. 7 is a sectional view of a filter vessel configuration having bottom inline inlet and outlet conduits which is permitted by the present invention;

[0027] FIGS. 8 a , 8b and 8c are side views of bag type filter vessels having different inlet and outlet configurations made possible by the present invention;

[0028] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 9-9 of FIG. 1;

[0029] FIG. 10 is a longitudinal sectional view of a further embodiment of the invention; and

[0030] FIG. 11 is a sectional view taken along lines X-X of FIG. 10.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] With reference to FIG. 1, a preferred embodiment of the filter assembly of the present invention is illustrated. Filter 10 of this embodiment includes an annularly shaped support basket 10a and insert or element 10b arrange to be carried by the support basket. Support basket 10a includes a basket flange 65, which is adapted to be supported on a shoulder within a filter housing or vessel, and cylindrically shaped wire mesh screens 60 and 61 which depend from the basket flange 65. Insert 10b has a cylindrical outer sleeve 11 and a cylindrical inner sleeve 12 disposed concentrically within the outer sleeve 11. Outer and inner sleeves 11 and 12 can be made of a variety of porous filter media materials through which liquid to be filtered can pass for filtering out contaminants. Such materials include nylon, polypropylene, needle punched felt and other such similar filter media. The sleeves 11 and 12 are connected at one end to an inlet plate 13 and at the other end to a terminal plate 20. Inlet plate 13 is shown in greater detail in FIG. 2 and includes an annular sealing ring 14 which is integrally formed with a fluid receiving planar surface 15. Surface 15 has a series of holes or openings 16 which are arranged so that liquid to be filtered will pass through the holes 16 into the annular space between concentrically arranged sleeves 11 and 12, as indicated by arrows “A”. Surface 15 also has an area 15′ which has no holes and is positioned to prevent flow of liquid into the space interiorly of sleeve 12. Cylindrically shaped flange 18 depends from the surface 15 in order to provide a surface for attachment of inner sleeve 12. An annularly shaped flange 17 depends from ring 14 to provide a surface for attachment of outer sleeve 11. Accordingly, outer sleeve 11 and inner sleeve 12 are connected to the inlet plate 13 at depending annular flanges 17 and 18 respectively. Attachment can be accomplished through a variety of means, the most efficient of which will be ultrasonic welding.

[0032] The inlet plate can be made of a unitary construction such as by injection molding of polymeric material such as polypropylene. Outer and inner sleeves 11 and 12 can similarly be made from polymeric material such as polypropylene thus permitting easy connection at areas 17 and 18 by ultrasonic welding. Other appropriate means of connecting the outer and inner sleeves to the inlet plate, such as through the use of appropriate adhesives can also be used.

[0033] Terminal plate 20, shown in greater detail in FIG. 3, is also preferably formed through a process of injection molding from polymeric material such as polypropylene and includes a closed surface 21 to be located at the bottom of the annular space between sleeves 11 and 12. A depending annular wall or flange 22 is located at the outer peripheral end of surface 21 to provide a surface area for connecting the bottom of sleeve 11 to the terminal plate. An upwardly extending cylindrical wall or flange 23 is arranged to provide a surface for connecting the bottom of sleeve 12 to terminal plate 20. Accordingly, outer and inner sleeves 11 and 12 are connected to the terminal plate 20 at areas 22 and 23 respectively. An opening 24 is located at the center of terminal plate 20.

[0034] With the bottom of the annular space between outer and inner sleeves 11 and 12 closed by the surface 21, liquid to be filtered entering the annular space between sleeves 11 and 12 through openings 16 in the inlet plate 13, as indicated by arrows marked by reference letter “A”, will be forced to pass through the porous filter media of sleeve 11 (arrows “B”) or through the inner sleeve 12 (arrows “C”), thus passing to the area outside of the assembly 10 or through the opening 24 in terminal plate 20 at the bottom of the interior of cylindrical sleeve 12.

[0035] In order to support the sleeves against the pressure of the fluid flow, the element 10b is supported by basket 10a which includes basket flange 65, outer rigid mesh cylindrical screen 60, inner rigid mesh cylindrical screen 61 and a circular rigid mesh bottom screen 62. Outer screen 60 and inner screen 61 are each connected to and carried by basket flange 65, which is adapted to be supported within a filter vessel, at one longitudinal end thereof. The bottom screen 62 is connected, such as by welding, to each of cylindrical screens 60 and 61 at their longitudinal end opposite to the longitudinal end of basket flange 65. Outer cylindrical screen 60 is positioned downstream and concentrically exteriorly of and adjacent to sleeve 11, while inner cylindrical screen 61 is positioned downstream and concentrically interiorly of and adjacent to sleeve 12.

[0036] When the assembly 10 is placed within a filter vessel 30, such as illustrated in FIG. 4, liquid to be filtered will enter the vessel through the inlet 31, passing via inlet conduit 32 through an openable top cover 33 of the vessel and onto the plate 15 of the filter element 10b. The liquid then passes through openings 16 into the annular space between sleeves 11 and 12. The liquid will then pass through the media of the sleeve 11 and through the mesh of screen 60 into the peripheral space 34 between the inner wall 51 of the vessel 30 and sleeve 11, surrounding the filter assembly 10, or through the sleeve 12 and mesh of screen 61 and into the interior cylindrical space 35 formed by sleeve 12. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the filtered liquid will then pass through the bottom screen 62 to the bottom of the vessel through outlet 36 shown in FIG. 4. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 outlet 36 is only accessible through a second stage cartridge filter 37 which may be positioned interiorly of the cylindrical space formed by sleeve 12 so that filtered liquid entering the peripheral space 34 or interior cylindrical space 35 will thence be forced to pass through cartridge filter 37 before being permitted to exit the outlet 36.

[0037] The mesh or perforated basket 10a shown schematically in FIG. 4, is positioned within the vessel in order to support the filter media of sleeve 11. The bottom of the basket can be made of similarly perforated material. The filter assembly 10 can be supported within the vessel 30 by allowing the annular ring 14 of the inlet plate to rest on a support shoulder 39 of the basket flange 65 of basket 10a, which in turn is supported in the vessel 30 on a support shoulder 41 Sealing O-rings 40 can be positioned to provide an appropriate seal between the cover 33 and the support 41 of the vessel 30.

[0038] Annular ring 14 of the inlet plate 13 supports a circumferential groove 14′. Groove 14′ is shown in greater detail in FIG. 6. Groove 14′ is generally V-shaped and arranged to accommodate a sealing O-ring 42. Ring 14 is thus bifurcated into an upper fork 44 and a lower fork 45. Upper fork 44 is engaged by the closure lid 33 of the vessel 30 when the filter assembly 10 is housed in place in the vessel. Thus the pressure caused by lid 33 (schematically indicated by arrows “D”) causes ring 42 to exert outward pressure against inner wall 47 of the basket support 39 (indicated by arrow “E”) thus causing a more positive seal with the inner wall 47 of the basket support 39.

[0039] FIG. 5 illustrates yet another embodiment of the present invention consisting of a filter assembly 100 which includes filter insert 10b supported by basket 100a. Basket 100a includes a basket flange 165 having a shoulder 139 and depending mesh screens 160, 161 and 163. Filter insert 100b has three concentrically arranged flexible filter media sleeves 111, 112 and 113. In this arrangement, filter insert 100b also has an inlet plate 114, a first terminal plate 120 and a second terminal plate 121. Inlet plate 114 has a plurality of openings or holes 116 to allow incoming fluid (represented by arrows “AA”) to enter the annular space between filter media sleeves 112 and 113. Inlet plate 114 also has a central opening 117 which allows incoming liquid (represented by arrows “AAA”) to enter the cylindrical space interiorly of sleeve 111. Hence, liquid which enters the annular space between sleeves 112 and 113 will be filtered by passing through the media of sleeves 112 and 113 and the screens 160 and 161 respectively of basket 100a . The liquid being filtered by passing through sleeve 112 (represented by arrows “BB”) will, after being filtered and passing through mesh screen 161, pass into the annular space formed between sleeves 111 and 112. Liquid which passes through filter sleeve 113 will pass through screen 160 and enter the annular space formed between screen 160 of basket 100a and the inner wall of the vessel (schematically shown and indicated as reference numeral 129 in FIG. 5). Liquid “AAA” which enters the cylindrical space within sleeve 111 will be filtered by passing through the filter media of sleeve 111 and screen 163 of basket 100a (represented by arrows “BBB”), thus entering the annular space formed between sleeves 111 and 112.

[0040] First terminal plate 120 has a closed annular portion 124 and a central opening 125 which forms an outlet opening for filtered liquid “BB” and “BBB” from within the annular space between sleeves 111 and 112 through bottom mesh screen 162. The closed annular portion 124 prevents liquid from exiting the annular space between sleeves 113 and 112, thus causing the liquid in this space to pass through the filtration media of sleeves 113 and 112. Second terminal plate 121 similarly prevents liquid from exiting the central interior space within sleeve 111, thus causing such liquid in this space to pass through the filtration media of sleeve 111. Filtered liquid “BB” which entered the annular space between annular sleeve 113 and inner wall 129 of the vessel will pass to the area at the bottom of the vessel along with the filtered liquid exiting the open center 125 of first terminal plate 120 in order to exit the vessel through outlet 140.

[0041] First terminal plate 120 is formed with flanges 126 and 127 which form surfaces to which sleeves 113 and 112 respectively, can be connected by ultrasonic welding or other attachment means. Second terminal plate 121 has a flange 128 which forms a surface to which sleeve 111 can be connected by similar means.

[0042] Inlet plate 114 also has depending annular flanges 131, 132 and 133 which form surfaces to which the tops of sleeves 113, 112 and 111 respectively can be connected, such as by ultrasonic welding or other attachment means.

[0043] The embodiment of FIG. 5 accordingly provides a filter element having a cumulative surface area formed by the cylindrical surface areas of sleeves 111, 112 and 113.

[0044] FIG. 7 illustrates a configuration of a generally cylindrical filter vessel which permits the use of inline, inlet and outlet conduits positioned at the bottom of the filter vessel. The vessel has an interior space with a removable lid 220 to provide access to the interior space when the lid is removed or in the open position. In this arrangement inlet conduit 201 enters through the bottom of the vessel and extends upwardly through the center of the vessel. Outlet conduit 202 is connected to an opening 203 offset from the center of the vessel but located at its bottom to provide means for egress of filtered liquid, such as represented by arrows “X”. In this arrangement, concentrically arranged perforated cylinders 210 and 211 form a support basket which surround the inlet conduit 201 to support the filter assembly 10. The filter assembly 10, such as described in connection with FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, is disposed within the vessel so that sleeves 11 and 12 are located within the annular space between basket walls 210 and 211. In this embodiment inlet plate 212 has a central “L” shaped flange 213 defining a central opening 214 for receiving and communicating with inlet conduit 201.

[0045] Other inlet and outlet conduit arrangements, such as shown in FIGS. 8a, 8b and 8c are thereby made possible through the use of the filter assembly of the present invention.

[0046] FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate an embodiment of the present invention intended for use in filter housings designed to accommodate standard cartridge type filters rather than the bag filters described hereinabove. Standard cartridge filters typically have an outside diameter of about 2¾ inches and are provided in overall lengths of 10 inches, 20 inches, 30 inches or 40 inches. In this embodiment, filter element 300 is generally cylindrical and can be made to have the same overall dimensions as the standard cartridges. Element 300 has an outer cylindrical sleeve 301 and an inner cylindrical sleeve 302 disposed concentrically interiorly of outer sleeve 301 with an inlet plate 303 and terminal plate 304 located at opposite longitudinal ends of the cylindrical arrangement of sleeves 301 and 302. For ease of reference, the area of the filter assembly 300 having the inlet plate 303 is hereinafter referred to as the “upper end” of the assembly while the area accommodating the terminal plate 304 is referred to hereinafter as the “lower end”. The inner and outer sleeves 301 and 302 thus form a concentric cylindrical arrangement with the inlet and terminal plates located at opposite longitudinal ends of the cylindrical arrangement.

[0047] As in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, outer and inner sleeves 301 and 302 can be made of a variety of porous filter media materials through which liquid to be filtered can be passed for filtering out dirt, particles and other contaminants. Such materials include nylon, polypropylene, needle punched felt and other such similar filter media. The sleeves 301 and 302 are connected at their upper end to the inlet plate 303 and at the other or bottom end to terminal plate 304. Inlet plate 303 is similar to the inlet plate 13 shown in FIG. 2, with some differences. Inlet plate 303 has an annular ring 314 which is integrally formed with a fluid receiving planer surface 315. Surface 315 has a plurality of holes or openings 316 which communicate with the annular space 305 between the outer and inner sleeves 301 and 302, respectively. Liquid to be filtered is intended to pass through the openings 316 into the annular space 305. Planar surface 315 has an area 315′, which is positioned centrally of the planar surface, that has no holes. The central area 315′ has a diameter approximately the same as the diameter of, and is located directly in alignment with, the interior cylindrical space 306, which is within the cylindrical space formed by inner sleeve 302. A cylindrical flange 318 depends from the surface 315 in order to provide a surface for attachment of inner sleeve 302. Inner sleeve 302 may be attached to flange 318 in a variety of ways, the most efficient of which is ultrasonic welding. Outer sleeve 301 is attached to annular ring 314 also preferably by ultrasonic welding. Many techniques, however, may be employed to attach both outer and inner sleeves 301 and 302 respectively to the inlet plate 303. Outer and inner sleeves 301 and 302 can be made from a variety of polymeric materials, such as polypropylene. Inlet plate 303 is formed as a unitary construction, such as by injection molding, also of polymeric material such as polypropylene. Thus, attachment of the outer and inner sleeves to the inlet plate 303 is easily accomplished by ultrasonic welding. Other appropriate means for connecting the outer and inner sleeves to the inlet plate 303, such as through the use of appropriate adhesives, can also be used.

[0048] Terminal plate 304, similar to terminal plate 20 illustrated in FIG. 3, is also preferably formed through a process of injection molding from polymeric material, such as polypropylene. Annular closed surface 307 is located at the bottom end of the annular space between sleeves 301 and 302 (i.e., the end opposite inlet plate openings 316) to prevent the flow of unfiltered liquid from the annular space 305 so that the liquid to be filtered will be caused to pass through the filter sleeves 301 and 302. A depending annular wall or flange 322 is located at the outer peripheral surface of closed annular surface 307 to provide an area for connecting end 301 a to the terminal plate 304. Upstanding cylindrical wall or flange 323 is arranged to provide a surface for connecting the end 302a of sleeve 302 to terminal plate 304. Accordingly, outer and inner sleeves 301 and 302 respectively are connected to the terminal plate 304 at areas 322 and 323 respectively. Opening 324 is located at the central area of terminal plate 304 to provide an exit for liquid that has been filtered through sleeve 302.

[0049] An outer cylindrical perforated cage 330, also preferably made of polymeric materials such as polypropylene, cylindrically encloses the assembly of inner and outer sleeves connected to the inlet plate 303 and outlet plate 304 and is positioned adjacent the exterior of sleeve 301 to support it against the radial outward pressure of liquid. Cage 330 is connected to the outer sleeve 301 at its upper and lower ends 330a and 330b, respectively, similarly, preferably by ultrasonic welding, although other means may be used. The perforations 331 of outer cage 330 may be in the form of holes or may be formed in another configuration, such as a lattice structure that is common in cartridge construction. U.S. Pat. No. 4,956,089 illustrates a typical form of cage. A cylindrical perforated inner core 325 is positioned radially inward of and adjacent inner sleeve 302. Core 325, also preferably of polymeric material such as polypropylene, is connected to the inlet plate 303 at annular flange 318 and is connected to the terminal plate 304 at annular flange 323. Thus, outer sleeve 301 is supported against radially outward pressure by outer cage 330 and inner sleeve 302 is supported against radial inward pressure by core 325.

[0050] An end cap 340, also typically made of polymeric materials such as polypropylene, is used to cap the upper end of the filter assembly 300 to form an assembly end and is connected to the outer cage 330, the outer sleeve 301, and the inlet plate 303, also by ultrasonic welding. End cap 340 is of a design and configuration which is common in cartridge designs so that it can be supported and accommodated within typical cartridge housings. End cap 340 has an inlet opening 341 through which liquid to be filtered can enter the filter assembly. In the typical manner, end cap 340 is provided with O-rings 342 for proper sealing engagement with the housing inlet structure.

[0051] Thus, in a manner similar to that described in connection with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, liquid to be filtered will enter the filter assembly 300 through end cap inlet opening 341, as indicated by arrows marked by reference letter “A” and will pass over the planar surface 315 of inlet plate 303, passing through openings 316 into the annular space 305 between the outer and inner sleeves 301 and 302, respectively. With the bottom of the annular space 305 closed by surface 307 of terminal plate 304, liquid to be filtered that is entering the annular space between the outer and inner sleeves 301 and 302 will thus be forced to pass through the porous filter media of outer sleeve 301 (arrows “B”) and through the porous filter media of inner sleeve 302 (arrows “C”), thus passing to the area outside of the filter assembly 300 or through the opening 324 in the terminal plate 304 at the bottom of the interior of cylindrical space 306.

[0052] As noted above, outer cage 330 and inner core 325 support the outer sleeve 301 and inner sleeve 302 respectively against the pressure of the fluid flow. When the filter assembly 300 is placed within a tradition cartridge filter vessel, liquid to be filtered will enter the vessel and be led to the inlet opening 341 of the filter assembly. The liquid will then pass through the openings 316 into the annular space 305 and through the media of outer sleeve 301 as well as through the perforations of outer cage 330 into the peripheral space between the outer surface of cage 330 and the inner wall of the vessel, or through the inner sleeve 302 and the perforations of inner core 325 into the interior cylindrical space 306 formed by core 325. The filtered liquid will then pass through the bottom opening 324 of the terminal plate 304. Thus, any dirt or contaminants that were in the liquid stream “A” will be trapped in the annular space 305 between outer and inner sleeves 301 and 302 and can thus be removed from the cartridge vessel or housing with the removal of the filter element 300, rather than such dirt or contaminants being left behind in the vessel or housing, as is currently typical with cartridge filters in which the liquid flow is from the outside to the inside.

[0053] This invention has been described and illustrated in connection with certain preferred embodiments which are illustrative of the principals of the invention. However, it should be understood that various modifications and changes may readily occur to those skilled in the art, and it is not intended to limit the invention to the construction and operation of the embodiment shown and described herein. Accordingly, additional modifications and equivalents may be considered as falling within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims hereinbelow.

[0054] The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A filter element assembly for use in cartridge type liquid filtration systems comprising: first and second cylindrical filter sleeves formed of flexible filter media, said second filter sleeve having a cross-sectional diameter less than the cross-sectional diameter of said first filter sleeve and arranged concentrically within said first filter sleeve forming a concentric cylindrical sleeve arrangement with an annular space between said first and second filter sleeves; a rigid inlet plate connected at one longitudinal end of said first and second filter sleeve concentric cylindrical arrangement, and a rigid terminal plate connected at the other longitudinal end of said concentric cylindrical arrangement; said inlet plate having a plurality of plate openings provided therein for communicating with said annular space between said first and second filter sleeves to thereby permit the flow of liquid to be filtered into said annular space; said terminal plate having an annular closed surface to prevent the flow of liquid from said annular space therethrough; a cylindrically shaped perforated outer cage connected to said first filter sleeve and surrounding said first filter sleeve to support said first filter sleeve against the flow of liquid; a cylindrically shaped perforated inner core located interiorly of and adjacent to said second filter sleeve to support said second filter sleeve against the flow of liquid; an end cap connected to said inlet plate, said end cap having an inlet opening for communicating with a source of liquid to be filtered and adapted to pass said liquid to be filtered through said end cap; and said filter element assembly adapted to be positioned within said cartridge filtration system so that said end cap will be oriented to receive liquid to be filtered so that liquid will pass through said end cap and through said plate openings into said annular space between said first and second filter sleeves to be passed through said filter sleeves for filtration of impurities or particles therefrom.

2. The filter element assembly according to claim 1, wherein said inlet plate comprises a planar surface for receiving liquid to be filtered, said plate openings extending through said planar surface inlet plate, an inner flange depending from said planar surface and an outer flange located exteriorly of said inner flange, said outer flange depending from said planar surface, said first and second sleeves being connected to said outer and inner flanges respectively, said planar surface of said inlet plate having a central area closed to communication with the space defined interiorly of said second sleeve.

3. The filter element assembly according to claim 2, wherein said first and second sleeves are ultrasonically welded to said flanges of said inlet plate.

4. The filter element assembly according to claim 3, wherein said terminal plate has a closed annular planar surface, an outer flange depending from said planar surface, and an inner flange extending from said planar surface in a direction substantially perpendicular to said closed planar surface, said first and said second sleeves being ultrasonically welded to said outer and inner flanges respectively.

5. The filter element assembly according to claim 1, wherein said inlet plate, said terminal plate and said first and said second sleeves are polypropylene.

6. The filter element assembly according to claim 1, wherein said outer cage and said inner core are polypropylene.

7. A filter element for use in liquid filtration systems comprising: first and second cylindrical filter sleeves formed of flexible filter media, said second filter sleeve having a cross-sectional diameter less than the cross-sectional diameter of said first filter sleeve and arranged concentrically within said first filter sleeve forming an annular space therebetween, said second filter sleeve forming a cylindrical space interiorly thereof, a rigid circularly shaped inlet plate connected at one longitudinal end of both the first and second filter sleeves, said inlet plate having an outer circumferential edge and a closed central circular area corresponding approximately to the cross-sectional area of said cylindrical space and a rigid closed terminal plate connected at the other longitudinal end of both said first and second filter sleeves, said first filter sleeve being ultrasonically welded to said inlet plate proximate to the outer circumferential edge of said inlet plate, said second filter sleeve being ultrasonically welded to said inlet plate proximate to the circumference of said central circular area, said inlet plate having at least one plate opening provided therein between said outer circumferential edge and the circumference of said central circular area for communicating with said annular space between said first and second filter sleeves to thereby permit the flow of liquid to be filtered into said annular space, said terminal plate having a closed annular surface to prevent the flow of liquid form said annular space therethrough, a cylindrically shaped perforated outer cage surrounding said first filter sleeve and a cylindrically shaped perforated inner core located interiorly of said second filter sleeve; said outer cage and said inner core being connected to said inlet plate and adapted to support said first and second filter sleeves respectively against the flow of liquid; and an end cap connected to said outer cage and located proximate said inlet plate, said end cap having an inlet opening for passing liquid to be filtered therethrough so that said liquid can flow through said end cap; whereby when said filter element is arranged within said filtration system said inlet plate will be oriented to receive-liquid to be filtered from the opening in said end cap so that said liquid will pass through said plate openings into said annular space between said first and second filter sleeves for passing through said filter sleeves for filtration of impurities or particles therefrom.

8. The filter element assembly according to claim 7, wherein said inlet plate comprises a planar surface for receiving liquid to be filtered, said plate openings being arranged through said planar surface, an inner flange depending from said planar surface at the circumference of said central circular area, and an outer flange located exteriorly of said inner flange proximate said circumferential edge and connected to said planar surface, said first and second sleeves being connected to said outer and inner flanges respectively, said planar surface of said inlet plate being closed to communication with said cylindrical space.

9. The filter element assembly according to claim 8, wherein said outer flange extends from said planar surface in a longitudinal direction.

10. The filter element assembly according to claim 7, wherein said terminal plate has an open central area in communication with said cylindrical space so that filtered liquid in said cylindrical space can pass through said terminal plate opening to exit said filter element assembly.

11. The filter element assembly according to claim 10, wherein said terminal plate has a closed planar surface, an outer flange depending from said terminal plate planar surface, and an inner flange attached to said terminal plate planar surface and extending in a longitudinal direction opposite to that of said terminal plate outer flange, said first and second sleeves being ultrasonically welded to said terminal plate outer and inner flanges respectively.

12. A filter element assembly for use in liquid filtration systems comprising: first and second cylindrical filter sleeves formed of flexible filter media, said second filter sleeve having a cross-sectional diameter less than the cross-sectional diameter of said first filter sleeve and arranged concentrically within said first filter sleeve forming a concentric cylindrical sleeve arrangement with an annular space between said first and second filter sleeves and a cylindrical space interiorly of said′ second filter sleeve; inlet means connected at one longitudinal end of said first and second filter sleeve concentric cylindrical arrangement, said inlet means having at least one opening for permitting flow of liquid to be filtered into said annular space and an area closed to the flow of liquid for preventing flow of said liquid to be filtered into said cylindrical space; terminal means connected at the other longitudinal end of said concentric cylindrical arrangement to prevent the flow of liquid to be filtered from said annular space other than through at least one of said filter sleeves and to permit the flow of filtered liquid from said cylindrical space and out of said filter element assembly; first and second support means adjacent to said first and second filter sleeves respectively for supporting said sleeves against radial outward and radial inward pressure respectively from the flow of liquid radially against said sleeves; assembly end means connected with said inlet means for communicating with a source of liquid to be filtered and for passing said liquid to be filtered therethrough; and said filter element assembly adapted to be positioned within said cartridge filtration system so that said assembly end means will be oriented to receive liquid to be filtered so that said liquid to be filtered will pass through said assembly end means and through said inlet means into said annular space between said first and second filter sleeves for passing through said filter sleeves for filtration of impurities or particles therefrom.

13. The filter element assembly according to claim 12, wherein said inlet means comprises a rigid inlet plate having a planar surface for receiving liquid to be filtered, said planar surface having at least one plate opening provided therein for communicating with said annular space between said first and second filter sleeves to thereby permit the flow of liquid to be filtered into said annular space, an inner flange depending from said planar surface and an outer flange located exteriorly of said inner flange, said outer flange depending from said planar surface, said first and second sleeves being connected to said outer and inner flanges respectively, said planar surface of said inlet plate having a central area closed to communication with said cylindrical space.

14. The filter element assembly according to claim 13, wherein said first and second sleeves are ultrasonically welded to said flanges of said inlet plate.

15. The filter element assembly according to claim 13, wherein said terminal means comprises a terminal plate having a closed planar surface to prevent the flow of liquid to be filtered from said annular space therethrough, an outer flange depending from said planar surface, and an inner flange extending from said planar surface in a direction substantially perpendicular to said closed planar surface, said first and said second sleeves being ultrasonically welded to said outer and inner flanges respectively.

16. The filter element assembly according to claim 15, wherein said inlet plate, said terminal plate and said first and said second sleeves are polypropylene.

17. The filter element assembly according to claim 12, wherein said first support means comprises a cylindrically shaped perforated outer cage connected to said first filter sleeve.

18. The filter element assembly according to claim 12, wherein said outer cage is polypropylene.

19. The filter element assembly according to claim 12, wherein said second support means comprises a cylindrically shaped perforated inner core located interiorly of said second filter sleeve.

20. The filter element assembly according to claim 19, wherein said inner core is polypropylene.

21. The filter element assembly according to claim 12, wherein said assembly end means comprises an end cap having an inlet opening therethrough, said end cap connected to said inlet means.

22. The filter element assembly according to claim 21, wherein said end cap is polypropylene and wherein said inlet means is a polypropylene inlet plate.

23. The filter element assembly according to claim 22, wherein said end cap is ultrasonically welded to said inlet plate.

24. A method of filtering liquid comprising: directing liquid to be filtered into a filter element assembly; causing said liquid to be filtered to pass through at least one opening through a rigid generally circular inlet plate of said filter element assembly and into an annular space formed between first and second cylindrical filter sleeves of said filter element assembly, said filter sleeves formed of flexible filtration media, said second filter sleeve having a cross-sectional diameter less than the cross-sectional diameter of said first filter sleeve and forming a cylindrical space interiorly of said second filter sleeve, said liquid to be filtered entering said annular space at one longitudinal end thereof through said at least one opening; preventing the flow of liquid to be filtered into said cylindrical space by a closed central surface of said inlet plate corresponding to the area of said cylindrical space; preventing the flow of liquid to be filtered from said annular space except through said first and/or second filter sleeves to thereby effect filtration of impurities or particles from said liquid; and permitting the flow of filtered liquid from said cylindrical space out of said filter element assembly.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein preventing the flow of liquid to be filtered into said cylindrical space comprises positioning said closed central surface of said inlet plate in alignment with said cylindrical space, said closed central surface being generally circular having a diameter approximately the same as the cross-sectional diameter of said cylindrical space.

26. The method of claim 24, wherein preventing the flow of liquid to be filtered from said annular space comprises connecting an annularly shaped closed terminal plate to said first and second filter sleeves at the longitudinal end of said filter sleeves opposite the end thereof where said liquid to be filtered enters said annular space.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein permitting the flow of filtered liquid from said cylindrical space out of said filter element assembly comprises positioning a central opening in said terminal plate in communication with said cylindrical space, said central opening having a diameter approximately the same as the diameter of said cylindrical space.

28. The method of claim 24 further comprising supporting said first and second filter sleeves against the flow of liquid.

29. The method according to claim 28, wherein supporting said first filter sleeve comprises placing an outer cylindrical support cage adjacent to and surrounding said first filter sleeve so as to support said first filter sleeve against radially outward pressure from the flow of liquid radially against said first sleeve.

30. The method according to claim 29, wherein supporting said second filter sleeve comprises placing an inner core adjacent to and interiorly of said second filter sleeve for supporting said second filter sleeve against radial inward pressure from the flow of liquid radially against said second sleeve.

31. A method of filtering liquid comprising: directing liquid to be filtered into a filter element assembly; causing said liquid to be filtered to pass through a plurality of openings through a rigid generally circular inlet plate of said filter element assembly and into an annular space formed between first and second cylindrical filter sleeves of said filter element assembly, said filter sleeves formed of flexible filtration media, said second filter sleeve having a cross-sectional diameter less than the cross-sectional diameter of said first filter sleeve and forming a cylindrical space interiorly of said second filter sleeve, said liquid to be filtered entering said annular space at one longitudinal end thereof; preventing the flow of liquid to be filtered into said cylindrical space by positioning a closed central surface of said inlet plate corresponding to the cross-sectional area of said cylindrical space in alignment with said cylindrical space; preventing the flow of liquid to be filtered from said annular space except through said first and/or second filter sleeves by connecting an annularly shaped closed terminal plate to said first and second filter sleeves at the longitudinal end of said filter sleeves opposite the end thereof where said liquid to be filtered enters said annular space to thereby effect filtration of impurities or particles from said liquid; permitting the flow of filtered liquid from said cylindrical space out of said filter element assembly; and supporting said first and second filter sleeves against the flow of liquid.

32. A filter system, comprising: (i) a generally cylindrical filter housing having an interior space for accommodating a filter element through which liquid to be filtered is caused to pass, said housing having an open top and a removable closure lid supported on the top of said housing so that said housing is closed when said lid is in the closed position, allowing access to the interior of said housing when said lid is in the open position; (ii) an inlet conduit connected to said housing for directing liquid to be filtered through a filter element, and an outlet conduit connected to and in fluid communication with the interior of said housing to direct flow of filtered liquid away from said housing; and (iii) a filter element assembly adapted to be supported within the interior space of said housing, said filter element assembly comprising first and second cylindrical filter sleeves formed of flexible filter media, said first filter sleeve having a cross-sectional diameter less than the cross-sectional diameter of said second filter sleeve and arranged concentrically within said second filter sleeve forming an annular space between said first and second filter sleeves, said first filter sleeve forming a cylindrical space interiorly thereof, a rigid substantially circularly shaped inlet plate connected at one longitudinal end of both the first and second filter sleeves, said inlet plate having an outer circumferential edge and a central circular area generally corresponding to the cross sectional area of said cylindrical space and a rigid closed terminal plate connected at the other longitudinal end of both said first and second filter sleeves, said first filter sleeve being ultrasonically welded to said inlet plate proximate to the outer circumferential edge of said inlet plate, said second filter sleeve being ultrasonically welded to said inlet plate proximate to the circumference of said central circular area, said inlet plate having plate openings provided therein and located between said outer circumferential edge and the circumference of said central circular area for communicating with said annular space between said first and second filter sleeves to thereby permit flow of liquid to be filtered into said annular space, said terminal plate having a closed surface to prevent the flow of liquid from said annular space therethrough, a central opening in said central circular area of said inlet plate adapted to communicate with said inlet conduit so that liquid to be filtered will pass through said central opening in said central circular area in order to flow into said annular space through said plate openings in said inlet plate when said filter element assembly is supported within the interior of said housing; and (iv) said filter element adapted to be carried within a support basket when said filter element is positioned within the interior of said housing.

33. The filter element assembly according to claim 32, wherein said inlet plate comprises a planar surface for receiving liquid to be filtered, said plate openings being arranged through said planar surface, an inner flange depending from said planar surface and an outer flange located exteriorly of said inner flange, said outer flange depending from said planar surface, said first and second sleeves being connected to said outer and inner flanges respectively.

34. The filter element assembly according to claim 33, wherein said first and second sleeves are ultrasonically welded to said flanges of said inlet plate.

35. The filter element assembly according to claim 34, wherein said terminal plate has a closed annular planar surface, an outer flange depending from said planar surface, and an inner flange extending from said planar surface in a direction substantially perpendicular to said closed planar surface, said first and second sleeves being ultrasonically welded to said outer and inner flanges respectively.

36. The filter element assembly according to claim 35, wherein said inlet plate, said terminal plate and said first and second sleeves are polypropylene.

37. A filter element assembly for use in liquid filtration systems comprising: first and second cylindrical filter sleeves formed of flexible filter media, said second filter sleeve having a cross-sectional diameter less than the cross-sectional diameter of said first filter sleeve and arranged concentrically within said first filter sleeve forming an annular space therebetween, said second filter sleeve forming a cylindrical space interiorly thereof, a rigid circularly shaped inlet plate connected at one longitudinal end of both the first and second filter sleeves, said inlet plate having an outer circumferential edge and a central circular area corresponding approximately to the cross-sectional area of said cylindrical space and a rigid closed terminal plate connected at the other longitudinal end of both said first and second filter sleeves, said first filter sleeve being ultrasonically welded to said inlet plate proximate to the outer circumferential edge of said inlet plate, said second filter sleeve being ultrasonically welded to said inlet plate proximate to the circumference of said central circular area, said inlet plate having a plurality of plate openings provided therethrough, said openings located between said outer circumferential edge and the circumference of said central circular area for communicating with said annular space between said first and second filter sleeves to thereby permit the flow of liquid to be filtered into said annular space, said terminal plate having a closed surface to prevent the flow of liquid form said annular space therethrough, said inlet plate having a central opening adapted to communicate with an inlet conduit extending longitudinally through said cylindrical space to provide liquid to be filtered to flow into said annular space through said plate openings when said filter element assembly is supported within a filter vessel in which said inlet conduit enters said vessel through the bottom thereof.

38. The filter element assembly according to claim 37, wherein said inlet plate comprises a planar surface for receiving liquid to be filtered, said plate openings being arranged through said planar surface, an inner flange depending from said planar surface at the circumference of said central circular area, and an outer flange located exteriorly of said inner flange proximate said circumferential edge and connected to said planar surface, said first and second sleeves being connected to said outer and inner flanges respectively.

39. The filter element assembly according to claim 38, wherein said terminal plate has an open central area in communication with said cylindrical space so that filtered liquid in said cylindrical space can pass through said terminal plate opening and to allow said inlet conduit to pass therethrough into said cylindrical space.

40. The filter element assembly according to claim 39, wherein said terminal plate has a closed planar surface, an outer flange depending from said terminal plate planar surface, and an inner flange attached to said terminal plate planar surface and extending in a longitudinal direction said first and second sleeves being ultrasonically welded to said terminal plate outer and inner flanges respectively.

41. A filter element assembly for use in liquid filtration systems adapted to be accommodated within a filter housing, said filter element assembly comprising: a support basket for placement within said filter housing and a collapsible filter insert removably carried within said basket; said basket having first, second and third rigid cylindrically shaped and concentrically arranged mesh screens allowing for the free flow of liquid therethrough; said first cylindrically shaped screen defining a cylindrical space interiorly thereof; said first screen arranged interiorly of said second screen forming a first annular space therebetween, said second screen arranged interiorly of said third screen forming a second annular space therebetween; said second and third cylindrical screens being connected to each other by a flat annularly shaped mesh screen located at one longitudinal end thereof, said first screen connected to a flat circular mesh screen located at one longitudinal end thereof; said filter insert adapted to be supported within said cylindrical space and said second annular space and having first, second and third cylindrical filter sleeves formed of flexible filter media, said first filter sleeve having a cross-sectional diameter less than the cross-sectional diameter of said second filter sleeve and arranged concentrically within said second filter sleeve forming an annular space therebetween, said second filter sleeve having a cross-sectional diameter less than the cross-sectional diameter of said third filter sleeve and arranged concentrically within said third filter sleeve forming an annular space therebetween; a rigid inlet plate connected at one longitudinal end of said first, second and third filter sleeves, and a first rigid circularly shaped terminal plate connected at the other longitudinal end of said first filter sleeve, and a second rigid annularly shaped terminal plate connected at the other longitudinal end of said second and third filter sleeves, said inlet plate having at least one plate opening provided therein for communicating with said second annular space and the annular space between said second and third filter sleeves to thereby permit the flow of liquid to be filtered into said second annular space, and a central opening provided in a center area of said inlet plate for communicating with said cylindrical space to thereby permit the flow of liquid to be filtered into said cylindrical space; said first and second terminal plates each having a closed surface to prevent the flow of liquid from said second annular space therethrough; said filter′ insert being collapsible so that said inlet plate and said terminal plates are moveable toward and away from each other when said filter insert is outside of said basket; whereby when said filter insert is carried within said basket said inlet plate and said terminal plates are positioned remote from each other, said first and second terminal plates being positioned adjacent said flat circular and annular mesh screens respectively, and said first sleeve of said filter insert is positioned adjacent and concentrically interior of said first screen of said basket, said second sleeve of said filter insert is positioned adjacent and concentrically exterior of said second screen of said basket, and said third sleeve is positioned adjacent and concentrically interior of said third screen so that said cylindrical screens of said basket support said sleeves of said filter element against the pressure of liquid flow, and whereby when said filter element assembly is arranged within a filter housing said inlet plate of said filter insert will be oriented to receive liquid to be filtered which enters said filter housing so that liquid will pass through said at least one plate opening into the annular space between said second and third filter sleeves and through said central opening into said cylindrical space for passing first through said filter sleeves and then through said screens of said basket to effect filtration of impurities or particles therefrom.

42. The filter element assembly according to claim 41, wherein said inlet plate further comprises a planar surface for receiving liquid to be filtered, said at least one plate opening and said central opening being arranged through said planar surface.

43. The filter element assembly according to claim 42, wherein said inlet plate further comprises′ first, second and third depending flanges to which said first, second and third sleeves are respectively connected.

44. The filter element assembly according to claim 43, wherein said inlet plate, said terminal plates and said first, second and third filter sleeves are polypropylene.

45. The filter element assembly according to claim 44, wherein said first, second and third sleeves are ultrasonically welded to said flanges of said inlet plate.

46. The filter element assembly according to claim 45, wherein said first terminal plate has a closed planar surface, and an outer flange depending from said planar surface.

47. The filter element assembly according to claim 46, wherein said first sleeve is ultrasonically welded to said outer flange of said first terminal plate.

48. The filter element assembly according to claim 45, wherein said second terminal plate has a closed annular planar surface and an outer flange at the outer circumferential edge of said planar surface depending from said planar surface and an inner flange at the inner circumferential edge of said planar surface.

49. The filter element assembly according to claim 41, further comprising means for supporting said filter element assembly within said housing.

50. The filter element assembly according to claim 49, wherein said means for supporting said filter element assembly within said housing comprising an annular ring formed integrally with said inlet plate, a shoulder formed on said basket for supporting said ring, said shoulder arranged to be supported by said housing.

51. The filter element assembly according to claim 50, wherein said ring of said inlet plate supports a V shaped groove the open end of which faces a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of said filter element assembly, and further comprising an O-ring carried within said groove, whereby when said filter insert is supported within said basket said O-ring will engage a side wall surface of said basket.

52. The filter element assembly according to claim 51, wherein said V shaped groove comprises upper and lower forks, whereby when said assembly is carried within a housing said upper fork is positioned to be pressed against by a cover plate of said housing to thereby compress said O-ring causing said O-ring to exert a force against said side wall surface of said basket to effect a fluid seal.

53. A collapsible filter element for use in liquid filtration systems adapted to be accommodated within a filter housing, said filter element comprising: first, second and third cylindrical filter sleeves formed of flexible filter media, said first filter sleeve forming a cylindrical space interiorly thereof and having a cross-sectional diameter less than the cross-sectional diameter of said second filter sleeve and arranged concentrically within said second filter sleeve thereby forming a first annular space therebetween, said second filter sleeve having a cross-sectional diameter less than the cross-sectional diameter of said third filter sleeve and arranged concentrically within said third filter sleeve thereby forming a second annular space therebetween; a rigid inlet plate connected at one longitudinal end of said first, second and third filter sleeves, a first rigid circularly shaped terminal plate connected at the other longitudinal end of said first filter sleeve, and a second rigid annularly shaped terminal plate connected at the other longitudinal end of said second and third filter sleeves; said inlet plate having an outer circumferential edge, at least one plate opening provided through said inlet plate for communicating with said second annular space to thereby permit the flow of liquid to be filtered into said second annular space, and a central opening provided in a central area of said inlet plate corresponding to said cylindrical space for communicating with said cylindrical space to thereby permit the flow of liquid to be filtered into said cylindrical space, said at least one plate opening located between the circumference of said central area and said circumferential edge; said first and second terminal plates each having a closed surface to prevent the flow of liquid from said second annular space therethrough; said filter element being collapsible so that said inlet plate and said terminal plates are moveable toward and away from each other; whereby when said filter element is carried within said filter housing said inlet plate will be oriented to receive liquid to be filtered which enters said filter housing so that liquid will pass through said at least one plate opening into the annular space between said second and third filter sleeves and through said central opening into said cylindrical space for passing through said filter sleeves to effect filtration of impurities or particles therefrom.

54. The collapsible filter element according to claim 53, wherein said inlet plate further comprises a planar surface for receiving liquid to be filtered, said at least one plate opening and said central opening being arranged through said planar surface, said inlet plate having first, second and third depending flanges to which said first, second and third sleeves are respectively connected.

55. The collapsible filter element according to claim 54, wherein said second terminal plate having a closed annular planar surface and an outer flange at the outer circumferential edge of said planar surface depending from said planar surface and an inner flange at the inner circumferential edge of said planar surface.