Patent ID: 6478959
Filing Date: 2002-11-12
Classification: B01D

Abstract:
A filter comprising an annular pleated filter element extending axially along an axis between distally opposite first and second axial ends, said filter element having a plurality of pleats extending radially between inner pleat tips at inner bend lines, and outer pleat tips at outer bend lines, said inner bend lines extending axially and defining an inner cylinder, said outer bend lines extending axially and defining an outer cylinder, said outer cylinder being concentric to said inner cylinder and defining an annulus therebetween, said pleats having axial ends at said first and second axial ends of said filter element, a fixture holding said filter element for simplified handling during manufacturing, first and second end caps comprising first and second end caps covering said axial ends of said pleats at said first and second axial ends, respectively, of said filter element, wherein said manufacturing includes formation of said end caps, said fixture holding said filter element during said formation of said end caps, and wherein at least one of said end caps encapsulates a portion of said fixture, wherein said fixture is a single-piece member having an inner support portion extending axially along said inner cylinder and supporting said filter element at said inner pleat tips, an outer support portion extending axially along said outer cylinder and supporting said filter element at said outer pleat tips, and a radial support portion extending between said inner and outer support portions and maintaining said inner and outer support portions in radially spaced concentric relation defining a reception annulus therebetween receiving said filter element therein.