INTERCONNECTED FILTER FRAME AND FILTER FRAMING METHOD

摘要

A filter product includes a filtration media combined with a multi-component frame assembly that can effectively support the filtration media in place proximal to its edges and in accordance with its desired orientation and wherein the assembly can be selectively taken apart to provide access to the filtration media by way of a releasable lock connection. Preferably, a snap-fit releasable locking system is incorporated within the frame design. The present invention is particularly applicable to filtration media comprising pleated filtration media. Such support features include rack-like media engagement elements, which elements are advantageously provided so as to preferably engage the filtration media proximal to its side and end edges from above and below to preferably compress and ensure an effective seal and support connection between the frame and the filtration media. Such a construction is further beneficial for supporting filtration media that includes a layer or other loading of particulate matter therein. The media engagement elements are spaced along the side of a support frame and a hold down frame and the side frame elements include sidewalls in combination. The sidewalls are spaced from the media engagement elements so as to support and preferable compress the filtration media inward from its side and end edges to support and effectively contain the filtration media and any particulate material therein.