Patent ID: 7413588
Filing Date: 2008-08-19
Classification: B01D,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A filter element comprising filter media, and a plastic framework overmolded to and structurally supporting said filter media, wherein said filter media comprises fibers, said framework comprises a rib network comprising a plurality of ribs, and the material of said framework is selected from a family chemically compatible with the material of said fibers to chemically bond said ribs of said framework to said filter media, and also such that the plastic material of said ribs of said framework entangles some of said media fibers to additionally mechanically bond said ribs of said framework to said filter media, such that said ribs of said framework are both chemically and mechanically bonded to said filter media, wherein said filter element is an annular filter element extending axially along an axis between distally opposite first and second axial ends, said framework extends axially along said axis between distally opposite first and second axial ends at respective said first and second axial ends of said filter element, and said first end of said framework has an outer peripheral surface having a resilient seal integrally overmolded therewith, wherein said seal comprises at least one flexible annular flange extending obliquely relative to said axis and radially deflectable relative to said axis, and wherein said ribs comprise a plurality of axial ribs extending axially between said first and second axial ends of said framework, and comprising a plurality of trusses at said first axial end of said framework extending radially between said axial ribs and said annular flange providing said seal.