FILTER

摘要

A filter comprising an array of bundles of open-ended filter tubes each housed within and extending along the length of a support tube. Filter tube seals are arranged at each end of each support tube such that the filter tubes extend therethrough, the seals preventing axial flow through the ends of the support tubes except through the filter tubes. A tubular housing receives each support tube, at least two conduits communicating with openings in each housing. Axially spaced annular seals located between each support tube and the associated housing divide the space defined between the support tube and housing into axially spaced regions which communicate with respective conduits. Openings in the support tubes communicate with respective conduits through the spaces between the housing and support tubes. One of the openings in each support tube communicates with the open ends of the filter tubes, and another communicates with the space within the support tube around the filter tubes and between the filter tube seals. The housings have removable covers which when removed leave apertures axially aligned with the support tubes to enable the insertion and removal of the support tubes in the axial direction. The covers may be transparent to enable visual inspection of the flow within the support tubes, and the housings may incorporate slidable plugs to enable the selective isolation of individual tube bundles.