Filter for subterranean use

摘要

A filter for subterranean environments includes an inner support member capable of transporting a fluid in an axial direction thereof, a filter body disposed around the inner support member and including a filter medium, and one or more end connectors surrounding the inner support member and each connected to an end of the filter body. Each end connector has a structure such that it can be installed on an inner support member having lengthwise ends with an outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the end connector. According to one form of the invention, an end connector comprises a plurality of arcuate sections which are combined to surround the inner support member and are immobilized with respect to each other. According to another form of the invention, an end connector comprises a split annulus having two circumferential ends. The annulus can be deformed between an expanded state in which the annulus can be fit over the inner support member and a closed state in which the annulus fits sufficiently closely around the inner support member to be sealed to it. According to another form of the invention, an end connector comprises concentric inner and outer sleeves.