Patent ID: 7935255

Claim:
A filter cartridge, comprising: an outer filter that includes first filter media with a first end and a second end, a first end plate connected to the first end of the first filter media, and a second end plate connected to the second end of the first filter media, the outer filter including a central axis; the first end plate includes a generally circular, horizontal plate that is closed so that the generally circular, horizontal plate is without openings therethrough, and a flange that is integrally formed with the generally circular, horizontal plate and that extends toward the second end plate, the flange has a first end connected to the generally circular, horizontal plate and a second end spaced from the first end, the generally circular, horizontal plate and the flange defining an open area, and the generally circular, horizontal plate has a radially outermost perimeter edge that extends radially past the flange to define a lip; the first end plate further includes a generally horizontal ring that is integrally formed with the generally circular, horizontal plate and the flange, the generally horizontal ring is spaced from the generally circular, horizontal plate in a direction toward the second end plate so that there is an unfilled gap between the lip and the generally horizontal ring, and the generally horizontal ring includes a surface that faces in a direction toward the second end plate and that is attached to the first end of the first filter media; and an inner filter that includes second filter media with a first end and a second end, a first end plate connected to the first end of the second filter media, and a second end plate connected to the second end of the second filter media; wherein the second filter media is disposed within the first filter media, and the first end plate of the inner filter and the first end of the inner filter are disposed within the open area.