Patent ID: 8186332
Filing Date: 2012-05-29
Classification: F02M

Abstract:
1. A fluid filter comprising: a filter housing having a fluid inlet port, a fluid outlet port and a chamber for receiving a fluid filter element therein; a thermostatic regulator valve mounted within said chamber in an interior of said filter housing, said valve comprising a valve body defining a valve inlet port, a valve outlet port and a recirculation passage, said recirculation passage in fluid communication with said chamber; a valve member movable between a first position and a second position for redirecting fluid flow, wherein in said first position said valve inlet port is in communication with said recirculation passage and said valve outlet port is blocked, wherein in said second position said valve inlet port is in communication with said valve outlet port and said recirculation passage is blocked; an actuator member is positioned within said chamber, immersed in and responsive to fluid mix temperature within said chamber and having a predefined desired actuation temperature, said actuator operational to urge said valve member into said second position when said mix temperature warms to said actuation temperature; wherein said mix temperature corresponds to a blending of fluid entering said fuel inlet port together with fluid exiting said recirculation passage within said chamber.