Biasing arrangement and filter unit for a filtering apparatus

摘要

The present invention relates to a biasing arrangement for use with a filter element having a longitudinal bore therethrough. The biasing arrangement includes a spring element having first and second ends and being comprised of a plastic material. The spring element is deformable by pressure applied in the direction generally along an axis extending between the first and second ends. A sealing disk is adapted to seal an end of the longitudinal bore of the filter element. The sealing disk is also comprised of a plastic material and is positively secured to an end of the spring element. According to a further aspect of the present invention, the sealing disk is positively secured to an end of the filter element to define an integral filter unit. In the preferred embodiment, the spring element, the sealing disk, and the filter element are all comprised of compatible plastic materials. In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, the spring element has a non-linear load/deflection characteristic such that a large force is obtained during initial deflection followed by a substantially constant force upon further deflection.