Composite Filter Cartridge

摘要

Cartridge components are configured to trap the upper end of a concave housing portion to define an enclosure surrounding a filter element. A disclosed embodiment includes a concave metal housing portion and plastic cartridge components, but other materials may be employed. An upper end cap spans the open end of the housing portion and defines at least one fluid flow aperture. A retainer surrounds the housing portion and is secured to the first component, with engagement features on the housing portion trapped between the upper end cap and retainer. The upper end cap and retainer may be secured to each other by spin welding, threads, adhesive or other suitable means. The outside circumference of one or both of the upper end cap and retainer may be provided with lugs, threads, bosses or other features to interface with complimentary features on the head for securing the cartridge to a head.

主权项

1. A composite filter cartridge comprising:
a concave housing defining an interior space having a longitudinal axis, said housing having a closed first end and at least one engagement feature adjacent an open second end; filter media supported within said interior space and surrounding said longitudinal axis between first and second axial ends; a first end cap secured to said first axial end of said filter media and having an outside surface complementary to said at least one engagement feature, said first end cap spanning said open second end and defining a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a retainer configured to surround said concave housing and including an interior surface complementary to said outside surface of said upper end cap and said at least one engagement feature, wherein said retainer and first end cap are both engaged with said at least one engagement feature and secured to each other, thereby securing said housing to said upper end cap.