CA2142424C - Brine seal for tubular filter - Google Patents
Brine seal for tubular filter Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2142424C CA2142424C CA002142424A CA2142424A CA2142424C CA 2142424 C CA2142424 C CA 2142424C CA 002142424 A CA002142424 A CA 002142424A CA 2142424 A CA2142424 A CA 2142424A CA 2142424 C CA2142424 C CA 2142424C
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- filter element
- support
- brine seal
- inlet port
- filter
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D27/00—Cartridge filters of the throw-away type
- B01D27/08—Construction of the casing
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- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- Separation Using Semi-Permeable Membranes (AREA)
Abstract
A filter assembly is provided for a manifolded water filtration system and includes a filter element, a brine seal located at the top of the filter element and engaging a boss depending from the system manifold. The brine seal isolates a rinse water discharge port, communicating with an outlet of the filter element, from an untreated water inlet port formed in the boss so as to ensure that the water to be treated passes through the filter membrane as opposed to directly out of the rinse water discharge port. This configuration eliminates the need for an exterior feed line, thus simplifying the system and preventing vibration during system start-up.
The brine seal also structurally reinforces the filter element, facilitates assembly of the filter, increases the capacity of the assembly, and reduces the chances of failure and leakage.
The brine seal also structurally reinforces the filter element, facilitates assembly of the filter, increases the capacity of the assembly, and reduces the chances of failure and leakage.
Description
T6N\~~\8RIN8 BRINE SEAL FOR TUBULAR FILTER
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention The invention relates to brine seals for filter assemblies and, more particularly, relates to brine seals for tubular filter assemblies connectable to a filter manifold and to filter assemblies incorporating such brine seals.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention The invention relates to brine seals for filter assemblies and, more particularly, relates to brine seals for tubular filter assemblies connectable to a filter manifold and to filter assemblies incorporating such brine seals.
2. Discussion of the Related Art Tubular filter assemblies are widely used in drinking water filtration systems and the like. Two or more such assemblies are typically connected to a single manifold with each filter providing a different type of treatment. At least one filter of such systems typically comprises a so-called reverse-osmosis filter assembly having a tubular, typically rolled filter element connected to a manifold having an untreated water inlet port, a treated water outlet or discharge port, and a brine or rinse water outlet or discharge port.
One such water filter assembly is disclosed in U.S.
Patent No. 5,0'02,664 which issued on March 26, 1991 in the name of Robert A. Clack et al. ("the Clack patent").
Referring now to Figure 1, a water filtration system 10 of the type disclosed in the Clack patent includes a manifold 12 and a reverse-osmosis filter assembly 14. Filter assembly 14 includes a tubular filter element 16 formed from a rolled filter membrane and encased in a sump or housing 18 connected to a boss 20 of the manifold 12 by a sump nut 22.
Untreated water is fed from the manifold 12 into an inlet 24 formed in the bottom of housing 18 via an external feed line 26. Water is treated in filter assembly 14 in a manner which is, per se, well known, with treated water returning to the manifold 12 via a male fitting 28 extending from filter element 16 and cooperating with a corresponding female fitting 30 depending from manifold 12. Rinse water returns to the manifold 12 by flowing through a passage 32 formed between the boss 20 and the fittings 28 and 30.
A brine seal 34 is provided proximate the lower end 36 of tubular filter element 16 so as to assure that water flows into the lower axial end 38 of filter element 16 rather than directly into the rinse water passage 32. Brine seal 34 includes a body 40 and a skirt 42 which sealingly engages the inner peripheral surface of housing 18.
The filter assembly 14 of Figure 1 incorporating the brine seal 34, while providing adequate water treatment, exhibit several disadvantages. For instance, feed line 26 is not only aesthetically unattractive, but may also be 1~.
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One such water filter assembly is disclosed in U.S.
Patent No. 5,0'02,664 which issued on March 26, 1991 in the name of Robert A. Clack et al. ("the Clack patent").
Referring now to Figure 1, a water filtration system 10 of the type disclosed in the Clack patent includes a manifold 12 and a reverse-osmosis filter assembly 14. Filter assembly 14 includes a tubular filter element 16 formed from a rolled filter membrane and encased in a sump or housing 18 connected to a boss 20 of the manifold 12 by a sump nut 22.
Untreated water is fed from the manifold 12 into an inlet 24 formed in the bottom of housing 18 via an external feed line 26. Water is treated in filter assembly 14 in a manner which is, per se, well known, with treated water returning to the manifold 12 via a male fitting 28 extending from filter element 16 and cooperating with a corresponding female fitting 30 depending from manifold 12. Rinse water returns to the manifold 12 by flowing through a passage 32 formed between the boss 20 and the fittings 28 and 30.
A brine seal 34 is provided proximate the lower end 36 of tubular filter element 16 so as to assure that water flows into the lower axial end 38 of filter element 16 rather than directly into the rinse water passage 32. Brine seal 34 includes a body 40 and a skirt 42 which sealingly engages the inner peripheral surface of housing 18.
The filter assembly 14 of Figure 1 incorporating the brine seal 34, while providing adequate water treatment, exhibit several disadvantages. For instance, feed line 26 is not only aesthetically unattractive, but may also be 1~.
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subject to punctuxe and breakage, and also r~quixes the use of relatively complex fittings connecting the feed line 26 to bottom inlet 24 of housing 18. This inlet 24 and the associate fittings 44 may be subject to leakage problems when the housing 18 is pressurized daring operation of the water filtration system. Moreover, it has been found that, due to the relationship between the water feed passageway including an internal shutoff valve and the external feed line 26, harmonics may arise in the system upon start-up which create bothersome vibrations and noises.
In addition, the location of the brine ~xeal 34 on the lower end 36 of filter element 16 may hamper assembly of the filter assembly 14. That is, unless care is taken when inserting the housing 18 ever the brine seal 34 on the filter element ld, the skirt 42 of brine seal 34 znay bend upwardly, thus destroying the effectiveness of the seal and rendering the filter assembly I4 inoperable for its intended purpose.
Providing a brine seal 34 on the lower end of the f iltsr element ~.6 also decreases the capacity of filter assembly 14 if an injection molded housing 18 is employed.
Injection mo3.ded elemients are necessarily tapered from their upper to their lower ends. Zt is therefore necessary to d~craase the diameter and thus the capacity of the filter z5 element 16 to assure adequate clareace between the filter element and the housing in the vicinity of the brine seal 34.
Moreover, wat~r pressure between the skirt and the filter element tends to force the brine seal away fram the element, thus threatening the integrity of the seal, particularly it the seal .is secured to the filter element by taping.
Still another disadvantage residesc in the fact that brine seal 34 is also incapable of reenforcing the upper axial end of the filter element 16, thus reguiring the employment of an additional reenforce~aent device to prevent the rolled filter membrane from telescoping during use.
Other known filtration systems eliminate the feed line by employing a specially deszgned filter element in which the untreated water inlet, rinse water outlet, and treated vrater outlet are all formed in the upper axial end of the filter element with the waste or rinse water and treated water being discharged from concentric tubes. This arrangement is cpmplex and thus relatively expensive to 24 fabricate.
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In addition, the location of the brine ~xeal 34 on the lower end 36 of filter element 16 may hamper assembly of the filter assembly 14. That is, unless care is taken when inserting the housing 18 ever the brine seal 34 on the filter element ld, the skirt 42 of brine seal 34 znay bend upwardly, thus destroying the effectiveness of the seal and rendering the filter assembly I4 inoperable for its intended purpose.
Providing a brine seal 34 on the lower end of the f iltsr element ~.6 also decreases the capacity of filter assembly 14 if an injection molded housing 18 is employed.
Injection mo3.ded elemients are necessarily tapered from their upper to their lower ends. Zt is therefore necessary to d~craase the diameter and thus the capacity of the filter z5 element 16 to assure adequate clareace between the filter element and the housing in the vicinity of the brine seal 34.
Moreover, wat~r pressure between the skirt and the filter element tends to force the brine seal away fram the element, thus threatening the integrity of the seal, particularly it the seal .is secured to the filter element by taping.
Still another disadvantage residesc in the fact that brine seal 34 is also incapable of reenforcing the upper axial end of the filter element 16, thus reguiring the employment of an additional reenforce~aent device to prevent the rolled filter membrane from telescoping during use.
Other known filtration systems eliminate the feed line by employing a specially deszgned filter element in which the untreated water inlet, rinse water outlet, and treated vrater outlet are all formed in the upper axial end of the filter element with the waste or rinse water and treated water being discharged from concentric tubes. This arrangement is cpmplex and thus relatively expensive to 24 fabricate.
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QS~r'CTS AN SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a filter assembly which is simple in construction, whzch can accommodate a conventional filter element, which is easy to as$eacble, and which doss not vibrate upon start-up.
Another object of the invention is to provide a brine seal for a filter asseuibly which is simple in construction and operation arhile at the same time resnforc~.ng the filter element of the assemb~.y.
In~accordance with one aspect of the invention, these and other objects aze achieved by providing a brine seal having a tubular body for surrounding the upper axial end of the tubular fi7.ter element. The bcsdy has inner and outer peripheral surfaces and upper and lowez portions, and a seal, extending outwardly from the outer peripheral surface of the body, for isolating an untreated water inlet of the filter assembly from the water outlet. Preferably, the seal further includes a ring, disposed within the body proximate a junction between the upper and lower portions, for engaging the fitting of the filter element proximate the axial surf ace, and a support, extending generally radially from the ring to the inner peripheral surface of the body, for reenf orcing the axial surtaae.
Preferably, the support is formed from a plurality of ~5 ribs extending radially from the inner peripheral surface of the body to the ring and each having bottom surfaces which are genErally coplanar with a bottom surface of the ring.
The seal preferably comprises an annular skirt fonaed from a flexible material and angled downwardly with respect t4 the eutez pezipheral surface of the body.
Still another abject of the invention is to provide a water filtration system empZoyi.ng an proved filter assembly.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, this object ~.s achieved by provi.dinq a liquid filtration system comprising a manifold having a water discharge part formed therein and a tubular support extending downwardly from the manifold. The support has an internal passage formed therein through which untreated water flows and which tezminates inn an untreated water inlet port. Also provided are a tubular filter element having an outlet communicating with the discharge port and an inlet communicating with the inlet port, and a brine seal which isolates the inlet port from the discharge port. The brine seal preferably includes a tubular body having an ~.nnez peripheral surface whzch surrounds the filter element and which has an outer peripheral surface, and a skirt which extends outwardly from the. outer peripheral surface of the body and which eealingly engages the support above the inlet port..
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.. ~ y :'~ °,, ' Breferably, the support comprises an annular boss having outer peripheral threads.
In order to reinforce the filter element, the brine seal preferably hays 1) a ring which engages the discharge fitting of the filter element, and 2) a plurality of ribs which extend radi.ally from the ring to the inner periphezal surface of the body and which reenfarce the upper ax~.al, surface of the filter element.
Still, another object of the invention is to provide a simplified method of assembling a f~.J.ter assembly of a water filtration system without interference from the associated brine seal.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, this object is achieved by providing a manifold having a tubular boas extending downwardly therefroat, the boss having an internal passage ~ormerl therein through which untreated water flows and which terminates in an untreated water inlet port, and by providing 1) a tubular filter element having an outlet communicating with a watez discharge port and having an inlet coz~uuuniaating with the inlet port, and 2) a brine seal secured to the filter element, the brine seal. including a tubular body having a reel formed on an outer radial periphery thereof. The actual assembly steps include connecting the filter element to the manifold dnd sealingly ~1~~~4 dngaging the boss with the seal, and then inserting a filter housing aver the filtex element from below.
Other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will become more readily apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the present invention, are given by Way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention may be made without departing from the spirit thereof, and the invention includes all such modifications.
AR2~F D~$CRIPTION O~ THE DRAWINGS
Preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention are 1~ illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals represent like paxts throughout and in which:
Figure 1 is a front elevation view, a portion of which is schematically illustrated in cross section, of a water Filtration system incorporating a filter element and brine seal con$tructed in accordance with the prior art, appropriately labeled "Prior Art";
Figure 2 is s front elevation view of a water ,~ filtration system including a filter assembly employing a z~~~~~~
.. g brine seal constructed in aacardance with a first eanbodinsent of the present invention;
Figure 3 is a sectional elevation view of a portion of the syst~n of Figure 2;
Figure 4 is a sectional elevation view of the filter dement and brine seal of Figures 2 and 3;
Figure 5 is an end view of the brine seal of Figure 4;
Figure 6 is a sectional view taken along the lines 5-6 in Figure 5;
I0 Figures 7 is a perspective view of the brine seal of Figures 3-6:
Figure 8 is a front elevation view of a water filtration sy9tem incorporating a filter assembly employing a brine seal constructed in accordance with a second I5 eiabodiment of the present invention;
Figure 9 is a sectional elevation view of the falter element and brine seal of Figure 8;
Figure 10 is an end view of xhe brine seal of Figure 9;
Figure 11 is a sectional view taken along the lines 11-20 11 in Figure 10~,and Figure 12 is a perspective view of the brine seal of Figure$ 8-11.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Resume Pursuant to the invention, a filter assembly is provided for a manifo7.ded water filtration system and includes a filter element and a brine seal located at the top of the filter element and engaging a boss depending from the system manifold. The brine seal isolates a rinse water discharge port, communicating with the upper axial surface of the filter element, from an untreated water inlet port formed in the boss so as to ensure that the water to be treated passes through the filter membrane as opposed to directly out of the rinse water discharge port. This configuration eliminates the need for an exterior feed line, thus simplifying the system and preventing vibration during system start-up. The brine seal also structural reinforces the filter element, facilitates assembly of the filter, and reduces the chances of. failure and leakage.
System Overview and Construction of First Brine Seal Referring now to Figures 2-7, a drinking water filtration system includes a manifold 52 and a tubular filter assembly 54 constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. Filter assembly 54 includes a filter element 56, a sump or housing 58 encasing the filter element, a tubular support in the form of a boss ., 11 _ 60 depending downwardly from the manifold 52, a sump nut 62 sealingly fastening the housing 58 to the boss 60, and a brine seal 64. Hrine seal 64 preferably is sealingly mounted on the upper axial end 68 of filter element 56 and sealingly engages the inner peripheral surface 61 of boss 60 in a manner discussed in more detail below.
StveraZ elezuents such as the filter element S6, boss 60, and body 90 of brine seal 64 are described herein as "tubular." The term "tubular" should not be construed to require a cylindrical or annular element, but should instead be construed to encompass atny element which is hollow in its axial direction and has at least one open end. Thus, although all of the "tubular" elements axe illustrated and/ox described herein as annular or cylindrical,. the specification and e7.aims should not be construed as so limiting unless otherwise specified.
Manifold 52 is fvr the most part identical to that disclosed in the Clack patent discusss3 above and includes, in the vicinity of filter assembly 54, a feed port 85 f or untreated water cad discharge ports 83 and 87 for xinse water and treated water. It should be understood, however, that aianifo7.d 52 need not take the form illustrated and, in fact, could take the form of a simple support for filter aeseaibly 54, so long ass it incorporates a support such as z5 bola 60 and is capable of controlling the flow of water into and out of the filter assembly 54. Moreover, depending upon the configuration of the filter element 56, the locations of discharge ports 83 and 87 cauld be reversed, in which case brine seal 64 would isolate inlet port 86 from treated water discharge port 87.
Filter element 56 is preferably a so-called reverse-osmosis filter having a tubular, rolled filter membrane 66 (see Figures 3 and 4), but could be any tubular filter element such as a nano-filter, micro-filter, or ultra-filter for treating water or any other liquid. Filter element 56 has upper and lower axial ends 68 and 70 terminating in respective open surfaces 72 and 74 forming a filter outlet and a filter inlet, respectively. The radial periphery 81 of filter element 56 is sealed, e.g., by wrapping it with a waterproof wrap. Extending axially through membrane 66 is a treater water collection and transfer tube 76 having a plurality of radial bores 78 formed through the cylindrical wall thereof and terminating a-t its upper end in a fitting 80 extending beyond the upper surface 72 of filter element 56 for the discharge of treated water.
In use, untreated water is diverted downwardly along the outer periphery 81 of filter element 56 by the brine seal 64 in a manner discussed in more detail below, enters the membrane 66 through the open lower axial surface 74 of filter element 56, and is treated in a manner which is, per L-3..
- 1.3 -se, well known. Treated watex enters the tube 76 via the bores y8 and is discharged from the element S6 by the fitting 80 and the discharge port 87. The remaining untraated or rinse water is discharged fxom the upper open surface 72 of filter element b6 and flogs through discharge pozt 83 farmed in manifold 52. Filtez element 56 as thus far described is, per se, known and, accordingly, will not be discussed in g=eater detail.
Sousing 58 which ie formed, e.g., from injection molded plastic, hag an open upper surf ace 79 but is otherwise completely sealed. Housing 58 is secured and sealed in position by the sump nut 62 which, in the illustrated embodiment, has internal threads engaging mating external threads foz~ed on the boss 60.
Boss 60 i.s preferably formed integral with manifold 52 and has a passage 84 (Figure 3) farmed therein for untreated water. Passage 84 communicates with feed port 85 fotzaed in manifold 52 and tera~i.nates in an untreated water inlet port 86 emptying into the space formed between the outer peripheral surface 81 of filter element 56 and the inner peripheral. surface 61 of boss 60 beneath the sealing portion formed by the skirt 98 of brine seal 64. A fitting 88 also depends from the bottom rurface of man~.fold 52 and mates with the correspoliding fitting 80 of filter e~.ement 56.
Brine seal 64 coacts with boss 60 so as to eliminate the need for a feed line while permitting the use of a conventional filter element 56 having its untreated water inlet in the bottom end. 70. Brine seal 64 may be formed from any flexible element such as molded low density polyethylene. Referring to Figures 4-7, brine seal 64 preferably includes a tubular body 90 having a lower portion 92 surrounding the upper end 68 of filter element 56 and sealingly secured to the filter element, e.g., by tape 65.
Body 90 further includes an upper portion 94 formed integral with the lower portion 92 and extending above the upper axial surface 72 of filter element 56. A skirt 98 projects outwardly and downwardly from an outer periphery 95 of body 90 and forms the seal. Body 90 is stepped outwardly at a junction 96 between the upper and lower portions 94 and 92 such that downwardly angled skirt 98 sealingly engages the inner peripheral surface 61 of boss 60 at a level above inlet port 86.
It can thus be seen that brine seal 64, being located on the upper axial end 68 of filter element 56, eliminates the need for the feed line of the prior art device and, accordingly, eliminates the problems associated with such a feed line. Also, locating the seal 64 in the illustrated position eliminates the need to decrease the diameter of the ~.~
filter element 56, thus increasing the capacity of the filter assembly 54.
Preferably, provision is made for reinforcing upper axial surface 72 of f_Llter element 56. Without such reinforcements, there is a danger that surface 72 would "telescope" or distort. axially under the imposition of forces caused by the water pressure within the membrane 66.
In the past, such reinforcements were provided independently of the brine seal. However, pursuant to the invention, such reinforcements are formed integral with the bring seal 64 and take the form of ribs 100 extending radially from the inner peripheral surface 102 of body 90 to an internal annular ring 104, the bottom surface of which is generally coplanar with those of the ribs. Ribs 100 and ring 104 are formed at or proximate the junction 96 such that, when brine seal 64 is secured to the filter element 56, ring 104 engages the fitting 80 and the bottom surfaces of the ring and the ribs 100 rest on the upper axial surface 72 of the filter element 56. Ring 104 may also abut fitting 88 to further inhibit telescoping of the membrane 66. Ribs 100 and ring 104 also perform a secondary function of positioning filter element 56 during assembly.
2~~~4~~
t' o~ i t ~n ~~r~~t Bring Seal Filter assembly 54 can be connected to the manifold 52 easily and with little fear of error. First, the iztsta7.ler positions the filter element 56 beneath the manifold 52 and inserts the uppex end 68 of filter element 56 into the annular boas 60 such that fittiag 80 is received in fitting 88 and such that skirt 98 of brine seal 64 sealingly engaqes the inner peripheral surface 61 of boss 60 at a locatives above inlet part 86. Because skirt 98 contacts boss 60 through only a relatively short stroke, there is J.fttle danger of unwanted "be~xding over" of skirt 98. Skirt 98, fitting 80, and ring 104 provide sufti.cient connection forces at this titae to retain the filter element 56 in posit~.on pending completion of the assembly operation.
Next, the installer simply inserts the housing 58 aver the filter element 56 from below until the upper periphery of the housing 58 engages the bottom surface of the boss 60.
This opexatian is simplified due to the fact that there is no interference between the housing 58 and the brine seal fi4 and thus no resistance t4 move~aent of the housing and no danger o~ unwanted defleati.on of the skirt 98 of the bzxne seal 64.
r, Finally, sump nut 62 is inserted from below and threaded onto the boss 60 to sealingly fasten the housing 58 to the manifold 52.
After assembly, filter assembly 54 is operated simply by feeding untreated water into the assembly through passage 84 and its associated inlet port 86. Untreated water, deflected by brine seal 64, flows between the outer periphery 81 of filter element 56 and the inner periphery 82 of housing 58, where it applies pressure tending to increase the sealing force on brine seal 64 by holding the tape 65 in place rather than forcing it away from the filter element 56 due to the configuration and location of the brine seal 64.
The untreated water flows into the inlet formed by the lower axial surface 74 of filter element 56, and is then treated in membrane 66 as discussed above. Treated water flows out of the assembly 54 through fittings 80 and 88 and out of the discharge port 87, and rinse water flows out of outlet formed by the upper axial surface 72 of filter element 56, through the spaces formed between the ribs 100, and is discharged through discharge port 83. Axial distortion or telescoping of the membrane 66 is prevented or at least inhibited by the ribs 100 and the ring 104.
~1~2~2 _ lg _ Structure of Second Embodiment o 8 int Seal, The brine seal discussed above is designed for use with a relatively small water filtration system having a capacity ot, e.g., 25 gallons psr day. Certain modifications may be required when the brine seal is to be used on filter elements of water filtration systems having greater capacities not only because the filter elements are larger, but also because the dangers of telescoping of such elements are higher. The number and degree of such changes will become apparent from the following description of water filtration system 150 which is illustrated in Figures 8 -12 and which has a cap$city df, e.g., SO gallons per day.
Water filtration system 150 and the associated filter element 156 and brine seal 164 contain essentially the same Structural components and are functionally identical to system SO including the filter element 56 and brine seal 64 illustrated in Figures 2-7. Accordingly, the elements in Figures 8-12 corresponding to those in Figures 2~7 have been given the same reference numerals -- increased by 100.
Drinking watez filtration system 150 includes a manifold 152 supporting a filter assembly 154. Fi.ltez~
a,seembly 154 includes a filter element 156 encased by a kousing 158 which is connected to a~ bos$ 160. A brine seal.
lb4 seals the filter element 156 to the bass 160. In the 2s illustrated embodiment, the housing 158 is formed with an enlarged upper end 179 having internal threads meshing with mating external threads on boss 160, thus eliminating the need for a sump nut. Such an internally threaded housing could also be used in place of the housing 58 of the first embodiment, thus eliminating the need for sump nut 62.
Filter element 156 includes a rolled filter membrane 166 and has an outer peripheral surface 181 and upper and lower ends 168 and 170 terminating in corresponding axial surfaces 172 and 174. A central tube 176 extends through the membrane 166, has radial bores 178 formed therein, and terminates in a fitting 180 for the discharge of treated water.
Brine seal 164 likewise incorporates all of the same components as the brine seal 64. Seal 164 thus has a tubular body 190 having lower and upper portions 192 and 194 joined at a junction 196, and a skirt 198 angled downwardly from an outer periphery 195 of body 190. Lower portion 192 is secured to the filter element 156 by tape 165, and upper portion 194 extends above the upper axial end 168 of the filter element. Radial. ribs 200 extend radially inwardly from an inner peripheral surface 202 of body 190 and terminate at an internal ring 204. However, because the membrane 166 is wider than the corresponding membrane 66, lower portion 192 of body 190 must be stepped outwardly rather than inwardly at: junction 196 to accommodate the t1 2~~2~~~
- ~o -incxeaaed diameter of filter element 156. In addition, bec~cuee there f.s a greater danger of distortion of the thicker membrane 166, ribs 200 and ring 204 are made deeper so as to provide increased reenforcement. The structure and operation of the filter assambly of Figures 8-lZ is otherwise identical to that of Figures 2-7 and, accordingly, will not be die~cuased in greater detail.
Other changes and modifications which could ba made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope thereof will became more readily apparent from a reading of the appended claims.
:,
It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a filter assembly which is simple in construction, whzch can accommodate a conventional filter element, which is easy to as$eacble, and which doss not vibrate upon start-up.
Another object of the invention is to provide a brine seal for a filter asseuibly which is simple in construction and operation arhile at the same time resnforc~.ng the filter element of the assemb~.y.
In~accordance with one aspect of the invention, these and other objects aze achieved by providing a brine seal having a tubular body for surrounding the upper axial end of the tubular fi7.ter element. The bcsdy has inner and outer peripheral surfaces and upper and lowez portions, and a seal, extending outwardly from the outer peripheral surface of the body, for isolating an untreated water inlet of the filter assembly from the water outlet. Preferably, the seal further includes a ring, disposed within the body proximate a junction between the upper and lower portions, for engaging the fitting of the filter element proximate the axial surf ace, and a support, extending generally radially from the ring to the inner peripheral surface of the body, for reenf orcing the axial surtaae.
Preferably, the support is formed from a plurality of ~5 ribs extending radially from the inner peripheral surface of the body to the ring and each having bottom surfaces which are genErally coplanar with a bottom surface of the ring.
The seal preferably comprises an annular skirt fonaed from a flexible material and angled downwardly with respect t4 the eutez pezipheral surface of the body.
Still another abject of the invention is to provide a water filtration system empZoyi.ng an proved filter assembly.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, this object ~.s achieved by provi.dinq a liquid filtration system comprising a manifold having a water discharge part formed therein and a tubular support extending downwardly from the manifold. The support has an internal passage formed therein through which untreated water flows and which tezminates inn an untreated water inlet port. Also provided are a tubular filter element having an outlet communicating with the discharge port and an inlet communicating with the inlet port, and a brine seal which isolates the inlet port from the discharge port. The brine seal preferably includes a tubular body having an ~.nnez peripheral surface whzch surrounds the filter element and which has an outer peripheral surface, and a skirt which extends outwardly from the. outer peripheral surface of the body and which eealingly engages the support above the inlet port..
N
.. ~ y :'~ °,, ' Breferably, the support comprises an annular boss having outer peripheral threads.
In order to reinforce the filter element, the brine seal preferably hays 1) a ring which engages the discharge fitting of the filter element, and 2) a plurality of ribs which extend radi.ally from the ring to the inner periphezal surface of the body and which reenfarce the upper ax~.al, surface of the filter element.
Still, another object of the invention is to provide a simplified method of assembling a f~.J.ter assembly of a water filtration system without interference from the associated brine seal.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, this object is achieved by providing a manifold having a tubular boas extending downwardly therefroat, the boss having an internal passage ~ormerl therein through which untreated water flows and which terminates in an untreated water inlet port, and by providing 1) a tubular filter element having an outlet communicating with a watez discharge port and having an inlet coz~uuuniaating with the inlet port, and 2) a brine seal secured to the filter element, the brine seal. including a tubular body having a reel formed on an outer radial periphery thereof. The actual assembly steps include connecting the filter element to the manifold dnd sealingly ~1~~~4 dngaging the boss with the seal, and then inserting a filter housing aver the filtex element from below.
Other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will become more readily apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the present invention, are given by Way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention may be made without departing from the spirit thereof, and the invention includes all such modifications.
AR2~F D~$CRIPTION O~ THE DRAWINGS
Preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention are 1~ illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals represent like paxts throughout and in which:
Figure 1 is a front elevation view, a portion of which is schematically illustrated in cross section, of a water Filtration system incorporating a filter element and brine seal con$tructed in accordance with the prior art, appropriately labeled "Prior Art";
Figure 2 is s front elevation view of a water ,~ filtration system including a filter assembly employing a z~~~~~~
.. g brine seal constructed in aacardance with a first eanbodinsent of the present invention;
Figure 3 is a sectional elevation view of a portion of the syst~n of Figure 2;
Figure 4 is a sectional elevation view of the filter dement and brine seal of Figures 2 and 3;
Figure 5 is an end view of the brine seal of Figure 4;
Figure 6 is a sectional view taken along the lines 5-6 in Figure 5;
I0 Figures 7 is a perspective view of the brine seal of Figures 3-6:
Figure 8 is a front elevation view of a water filtration sy9tem incorporating a filter assembly employing a brine seal constructed in accordance with a second I5 eiabodiment of the present invention;
Figure 9 is a sectional elevation view of the falter element and brine seal of Figure 8;
Figure 10 is an end view of xhe brine seal of Figure 9;
Figure 11 is a sectional view taken along the lines 11-20 11 in Figure 10~,and Figure 12 is a perspective view of the brine seal of Figure$ 8-11.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Resume Pursuant to the invention, a filter assembly is provided for a manifo7.ded water filtration system and includes a filter element and a brine seal located at the top of the filter element and engaging a boss depending from the system manifold. The brine seal isolates a rinse water discharge port, communicating with the upper axial surface of the filter element, from an untreated water inlet port formed in the boss so as to ensure that the water to be treated passes through the filter membrane as opposed to directly out of the rinse water discharge port. This configuration eliminates the need for an exterior feed line, thus simplifying the system and preventing vibration during system start-up. The brine seal also structural reinforces the filter element, facilitates assembly of the filter, and reduces the chances of. failure and leakage.
System Overview and Construction of First Brine Seal Referring now to Figures 2-7, a drinking water filtration system includes a manifold 52 and a tubular filter assembly 54 constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. Filter assembly 54 includes a filter element 56, a sump or housing 58 encasing the filter element, a tubular support in the form of a boss ., 11 _ 60 depending downwardly from the manifold 52, a sump nut 62 sealingly fastening the housing 58 to the boss 60, and a brine seal 64. Hrine seal 64 preferably is sealingly mounted on the upper axial end 68 of filter element 56 and sealingly engages the inner peripheral surface 61 of boss 60 in a manner discussed in more detail below.
StveraZ elezuents such as the filter element S6, boss 60, and body 90 of brine seal 64 are described herein as "tubular." The term "tubular" should not be construed to require a cylindrical or annular element, but should instead be construed to encompass atny element which is hollow in its axial direction and has at least one open end. Thus, although all of the "tubular" elements axe illustrated and/ox described herein as annular or cylindrical,. the specification and e7.aims should not be construed as so limiting unless otherwise specified.
Manifold 52 is fvr the most part identical to that disclosed in the Clack patent discusss3 above and includes, in the vicinity of filter assembly 54, a feed port 85 f or untreated water cad discharge ports 83 and 87 for xinse water and treated water. It should be understood, however, that aianifo7.d 52 need not take the form illustrated and, in fact, could take the form of a simple support for filter aeseaibly 54, so long ass it incorporates a support such as z5 bola 60 and is capable of controlling the flow of water into and out of the filter assembly 54. Moreover, depending upon the configuration of the filter element 56, the locations of discharge ports 83 and 87 cauld be reversed, in which case brine seal 64 would isolate inlet port 86 from treated water discharge port 87.
Filter element 56 is preferably a so-called reverse-osmosis filter having a tubular, rolled filter membrane 66 (see Figures 3 and 4), but could be any tubular filter element such as a nano-filter, micro-filter, or ultra-filter for treating water or any other liquid. Filter element 56 has upper and lower axial ends 68 and 70 terminating in respective open surfaces 72 and 74 forming a filter outlet and a filter inlet, respectively. The radial periphery 81 of filter element 56 is sealed, e.g., by wrapping it with a waterproof wrap. Extending axially through membrane 66 is a treater water collection and transfer tube 76 having a plurality of radial bores 78 formed through the cylindrical wall thereof and terminating a-t its upper end in a fitting 80 extending beyond the upper surface 72 of filter element 56 for the discharge of treated water.
In use, untreated water is diverted downwardly along the outer periphery 81 of filter element 56 by the brine seal 64 in a manner discussed in more detail below, enters the membrane 66 through the open lower axial surface 74 of filter element 56, and is treated in a manner which is, per L-3..
- 1.3 -se, well known. Treated watex enters the tube 76 via the bores y8 and is discharged from the element S6 by the fitting 80 and the discharge port 87. The remaining untraated or rinse water is discharged fxom the upper open surface 72 of filter element b6 and flogs through discharge pozt 83 farmed in manifold 52. Filtez element 56 as thus far described is, per se, known and, accordingly, will not be discussed in g=eater detail.
Sousing 58 which ie formed, e.g., from injection molded plastic, hag an open upper surf ace 79 but is otherwise completely sealed. Housing 58 is secured and sealed in position by the sump nut 62 which, in the illustrated embodiment, has internal threads engaging mating external threads foz~ed on the boss 60.
Boss 60 i.s preferably formed integral with manifold 52 and has a passage 84 (Figure 3) farmed therein for untreated water. Passage 84 communicates with feed port 85 fotzaed in manifold 52 and tera~i.nates in an untreated water inlet port 86 emptying into the space formed between the outer peripheral surface 81 of filter element 56 and the inner peripheral. surface 61 of boss 60 beneath the sealing portion formed by the skirt 98 of brine seal 64. A fitting 88 also depends from the bottom rurface of man~.fold 52 and mates with the correspoliding fitting 80 of filter e~.ement 56.
Brine seal 64 coacts with boss 60 so as to eliminate the need for a feed line while permitting the use of a conventional filter element 56 having its untreated water inlet in the bottom end. 70. Brine seal 64 may be formed from any flexible element such as molded low density polyethylene. Referring to Figures 4-7, brine seal 64 preferably includes a tubular body 90 having a lower portion 92 surrounding the upper end 68 of filter element 56 and sealingly secured to the filter element, e.g., by tape 65.
Body 90 further includes an upper portion 94 formed integral with the lower portion 92 and extending above the upper axial surface 72 of filter element 56. A skirt 98 projects outwardly and downwardly from an outer periphery 95 of body 90 and forms the seal. Body 90 is stepped outwardly at a junction 96 between the upper and lower portions 94 and 92 such that downwardly angled skirt 98 sealingly engages the inner peripheral surface 61 of boss 60 at a level above inlet port 86.
It can thus be seen that brine seal 64, being located on the upper axial end 68 of filter element 56, eliminates the need for the feed line of the prior art device and, accordingly, eliminates the problems associated with such a feed line. Also, locating the seal 64 in the illustrated position eliminates the need to decrease the diameter of the ~.~
filter element 56, thus increasing the capacity of the filter assembly 54.
Preferably, provision is made for reinforcing upper axial surface 72 of f_Llter element 56. Without such reinforcements, there is a danger that surface 72 would "telescope" or distort. axially under the imposition of forces caused by the water pressure within the membrane 66.
In the past, such reinforcements were provided independently of the brine seal. However, pursuant to the invention, such reinforcements are formed integral with the bring seal 64 and take the form of ribs 100 extending radially from the inner peripheral surface 102 of body 90 to an internal annular ring 104, the bottom surface of which is generally coplanar with those of the ribs. Ribs 100 and ring 104 are formed at or proximate the junction 96 such that, when brine seal 64 is secured to the filter element 56, ring 104 engages the fitting 80 and the bottom surfaces of the ring and the ribs 100 rest on the upper axial surface 72 of the filter element 56. Ring 104 may also abut fitting 88 to further inhibit telescoping of the membrane 66. Ribs 100 and ring 104 also perform a secondary function of positioning filter element 56 during assembly.
2~~~4~~
t' o~ i t ~n ~~r~~t Bring Seal Filter assembly 54 can be connected to the manifold 52 easily and with little fear of error. First, the iztsta7.ler positions the filter element 56 beneath the manifold 52 and inserts the uppex end 68 of filter element 56 into the annular boas 60 such that fittiag 80 is received in fitting 88 and such that skirt 98 of brine seal 64 sealingly engaqes the inner peripheral surface 61 of boss 60 at a locatives above inlet part 86. Because skirt 98 contacts boss 60 through only a relatively short stroke, there is J.fttle danger of unwanted "be~xding over" of skirt 98. Skirt 98, fitting 80, and ring 104 provide sufti.cient connection forces at this titae to retain the filter element 56 in posit~.on pending completion of the assembly operation.
Next, the installer simply inserts the housing 58 aver the filter element 56 from below until the upper periphery of the housing 58 engages the bottom surface of the boss 60.
This opexatian is simplified due to the fact that there is no interference between the housing 58 and the brine seal fi4 and thus no resistance t4 move~aent of the housing and no danger o~ unwanted defleati.on of the skirt 98 of the bzxne seal 64.
r, Finally, sump nut 62 is inserted from below and threaded onto the boss 60 to sealingly fasten the housing 58 to the manifold 52.
After assembly, filter assembly 54 is operated simply by feeding untreated water into the assembly through passage 84 and its associated inlet port 86. Untreated water, deflected by brine seal 64, flows between the outer periphery 81 of filter element 56 and the inner periphery 82 of housing 58, where it applies pressure tending to increase the sealing force on brine seal 64 by holding the tape 65 in place rather than forcing it away from the filter element 56 due to the configuration and location of the brine seal 64.
The untreated water flows into the inlet formed by the lower axial surface 74 of filter element 56, and is then treated in membrane 66 as discussed above. Treated water flows out of the assembly 54 through fittings 80 and 88 and out of the discharge port 87, and rinse water flows out of outlet formed by the upper axial surface 72 of filter element 56, through the spaces formed between the ribs 100, and is discharged through discharge port 83. Axial distortion or telescoping of the membrane 66 is prevented or at least inhibited by the ribs 100 and the ring 104.
~1~2~2 _ lg _ Structure of Second Embodiment o 8 int Seal, The brine seal discussed above is designed for use with a relatively small water filtration system having a capacity ot, e.g., 25 gallons psr day. Certain modifications may be required when the brine seal is to be used on filter elements of water filtration systems having greater capacities not only because the filter elements are larger, but also because the dangers of telescoping of such elements are higher. The number and degree of such changes will become apparent from the following description of water filtration system 150 which is illustrated in Figures 8 -12 and which has a cap$city df, e.g., SO gallons per day.
Water filtration system 150 and the associated filter element 156 and brine seal 164 contain essentially the same Structural components and are functionally identical to system SO including the filter element 56 and brine seal 64 illustrated in Figures 2-7. Accordingly, the elements in Figures 8-12 corresponding to those in Figures 2~7 have been given the same reference numerals -- increased by 100.
Drinking watez filtration system 150 includes a manifold 152 supporting a filter assembly 154. Fi.ltez~
a,seembly 154 includes a filter element 156 encased by a kousing 158 which is connected to a~ bos$ 160. A brine seal.
lb4 seals the filter element 156 to the bass 160. In the 2s illustrated embodiment, the housing 158 is formed with an enlarged upper end 179 having internal threads meshing with mating external threads on boss 160, thus eliminating the need for a sump nut. Such an internally threaded housing could also be used in place of the housing 58 of the first embodiment, thus eliminating the need for sump nut 62.
Filter element 156 includes a rolled filter membrane 166 and has an outer peripheral surface 181 and upper and lower ends 168 and 170 terminating in corresponding axial surfaces 172 and 174. A central tube 176 extends through the membrane 166, has radial bores 178 formed therein, and terminates in a fitting 180 for the discharge of treated water.
Brine seal 164 likewise incorporates all of the same components as the brine seal 64. Seal 164 thus has a tubular body 190 having lower and upper portions 192 and 194 joined at a junction 196, and a skirt 198 angled downwardly from an outer periphery 195 of body 190. Lower portion 192 is secured to the filter element 156 by tape 165, and upper portion 194 extends above the upper axial end 168 of the filter element. Radial. ribs 200 extend radially inwardly from an inner peripheral surface 202 of body 190 and terminate at an internal ring 204. However, because the membrane 166 is wider than the corresponding membrane 66, lower portion 192 of body 190 must be stepped outwardly rather than inwardly at: junction 196 to accommodate the t1 2~~2~~~
- ~o -incxeaaed diameter of filter element 156. In addition, bec~cuee there f.s a greater danger of distortion of the thicker membrane 166, ribs 200 and ring 204 are made deeper so as to provide increased reenforcement. The structure and operation of the filter assambly of Figures 8-lZ is otherwise identical to that of Figures 2-7 and, accordingly, will not be die~cuased in greater detail.
Other changes and modifications which could ba made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope thereof will became more readily apparent from a reading of the appended claims.
:,
Claims (20)
1. A brine seal for isolating a water outlet of a filter assembly from an untreated water inlet, said brine seal being mountable on a tubular filter element of said filter assembly which has an upper axial surface and a fitting extending axially from said upper axial surface, said brine seal comprising:
A. a tubular body for surrounding said filter element, said body having (1) inner and outer peripheral surfaces, (2) a lower portion for mounting said brine seal on said filter element, (3) an upper portion for extending above said filter element;
B. a skirt, extending outwardly from said outer peripheral surface of said body, for sealing said untreated water inlet of said filter assembly from said water outlet;
C. a ring, disposed within said body proximate a junction between said upper and lower portions, for engaging said fitting of said filter element proximate said axial surface; and D. a support, extending generally radially from said ring to said inner peripheral surface of said body, for reinforcing said axial surface.
A. a tubular body for surrounding said filter element, said body having (1) inner and outer peripheral surfaces, (2) a lower portion for mounting said brine seal on said filter element, (3) an upper portion for extending above said filter element;
B. a skirt, extending outwardly from said outer peripheral surface of said body, for sealing said untreated water inlet of said filter assembly from said water outlet;
C. a ring, disposed within said body proximate a junction between said upper and lower portions, for engaging said fitting of said filter element proximate said axial surface; and D. a support, extending generally radially from said ring to said inner peripheral surface of said body, for reinforcing said axial surface.
2. A brine seal as defined in claim 1, wherein said support is formed from a plurality of ribs extending radially from said inner peripheral surface of said body to said ring and each having a bottom surface which is generally coplanar with a bottom surface of said ring.
3. A brine seal as defined in claim 1, wherein said body is stepped at said junction.
4. A brine seal as defined in claim 3, wherein said upper portion of said body has a greater diameter than said lower portion.
5. A brine seal as defined in claim 3, wherein said lower portion of said body has a diameter which is no smaller than that of said upper portion, and wherein said ribs and said ring are deepened to provide increased support.
6. A brine seal as defined in claim 1, wherein said ring and said skirt are annular.
7. A brine seal as defined in claim 6, wherein said skirt is formed from a flexible material and is angled downwardly with respect to said outer peripheral surface of said body.
8. A liquid filtration system comprising:
A. a manifold having a water inlet port and a water discharge port formed therein;
B. a tubular support extending from said manifold, said support having a passage formed therein which extends internally through said support to said water inlet port of said manifold, through which untreated water flows, and which terminates in an untreated water inlet port formed in an inner radial peripheral surface of said support;
C. a tubular filter element having an outlet communicating with said discharge port and having an inlet communicating with said untreated water inlet port of said support; and D. a brine seal which is sealingly mounted on said filter element and which sealingly engages said inner peripheral surface of said support between said untreated water inlet port and said outlet to isolate said untreated water inlet port from said discharge port.
A. a manifold having a water inlet port and a water discharge port formed therein;
B. a tubular support extending from said manifold, said support having a passage formed therein which extends internally through said support to said water inlet port of said manifold, through which untreated water flows, and which terminates in an untreated water inlet port formed in an inner radial peripheral surface of said support;
C. a tubular filter element having an outlet communicating with said discharge port and having an inlet communicating with said untreated water inlet port of said support; and D. a brine seal which is sealingly mounted on said filter element and which sealingly engages said inner peripheral surface of said support between said untreated water inlet port and said outlet to isolate said untreated water inlet port from said discharge port.
9. A filtration system as defined in claim 8, wherein said support comprises an annular boss, and further comprising a filter housing which is mounted on said boss and which is sealed except at an upper axial end thereof.
10. A filtration system as defined in claim 8, wherein said brine seal comprises a tubular body having an inner peripheral surface sealingly mounted on said filter element and having an outer peripheral surface, said brine seal further comprising a skirt which extends from said outer peripheral surface to said support to isolate said inlet port from said discharge port.
11. A filtration system as defined in claim 10, wherein said filter element has a treated water discharge fitting extending from an upper axial surface thereof, and wherein said brine seal further includes a ring which engages said fitting, and a plurality of ribs which extend radially from said ring to said inner peripheral surface of said body and which reinforce said upper axial surface of said filter element.
12. A filtration system as defined in claim 10, wherein said skirt is angled downwardly from an upper portion of said body.
13. A filtration system as defined in claim 10, wherein said body includes a lower portion which is sealingly secured to said filter element and an upper portion extending above an upper axial surface of said filter element and on which is formed said skirt.
14. A filtration system as defined in claim 10, wherein said inlet of said filter element comprises an open lower axial surface, and said outlet comprises an open upper surface out of which rinse water flows.
15. A water filtration system comprising:
A. a manifold having a rinse water discharge port formed therein;
B. an annular boss extending downwardly from said manifold, said boss having outer peripheral threads and an internal passage formed therein through which untreated water flows and which terminate in an untreated water inlet port;
C. an annular filter element having an upper end surrounded by said boss, communicating with said discharge port, and terminating in an upper axial surface;
D. an annular fitting extending upwardly from said upper axial surface of said filter element;
E. a filter housing which encases said filter element and which is enclosed except for an open upper axial surface;
F. an internally threaded sump nut which fastens said filter housing to said boss; and G. a brine seal which isolates said inlet port from said rinse water discharge port, said brine seal including (1) an annular body having an inner peripheral surface which surrounds said upper axial end of said filter element and which has an outer peripheral surface, said annular body having a lower portion sealingly secured to said filter element and an upper portion extending above said upper axial surface of said filter element, (2) a ring which engages said annular fitting, (3) a plurality of ribs which extend radially from said ring to said inner peripheral surface of said annular body proximate a junction between said upper and lower portions thereof, said rubs engaging said upper axial surface of said filter element, and (4) a skirt which extends outwardly from said outer peripheral surface of said annular body proximate an upper end of said upper portion, which is angled downwardly, and which sealingly engages said boss.
A. a manifold having a rinse water discharge port formed therein;
B. an annular boss extending downwardly from said manifold, said boss having outer peripheral threads and an internal passage formed therein through which untreated water flows and which terminate in an untreated water inlet port;
C. an annular filter element having an upper end surrounded by said boss, communicating with said discharge port, and terminating in an upper axial surface;
D. an annular fitting extending upwardly from said upper axial surface of said filter element;
E. a filter housing which encases said filter element and which is enclosed except for an open upper axial surface;
F. an internally threaded sump nut which fastens said filter housing to said boss; and G. a brine seal which isolates said inlet port from said rinse water discharge port, said brine seal including (1) an annular body having an inner peripheral surface which surrounds said upper axial end of said filter element and which has an outer peripheral surface, said annular body having a lower portion sealingly secured to said filter element and an upper portion extending above said upper axial surface of said filter element, (2) a ring which engages said annular fitting, (3) a plurality of ribs which extend radially from said ring to said inner peripheral surface of said annular body proximate a junction between said upper and lower portions thereof, said rubs engaging said upper axial surface of said filter element, and (4) a skirt which extends outwardly from said outer peripheral surface of said annular body proximate an upper end of said upper portion, which is angled downwardly, and which sealingly engages said boss.
16. A method of assembling a water filtration system comprising:
A. providing a manifold having a tubular support extending downwardly therefrom, said support having an internal passage formed therein through which untreated water flows and which terminates in an inner radial peripheral water inlet port;
B. providing a tubular filter assembly including (1) a tubular filter element having an outlet communicating with a discharge port formed in said manifold and having an inlet communicating with said inlet port, and (2) a brine seal sealingly mounted on said filter element; then C. connecting said filter element to said manifold and sealingly engaging said support with said brine seal at a location above said inlet port;
and then D. inserting a filter housing over said filter element from below.
A. providing a manifold having a tubular support extending downwardly therefrom, said support having an internal passage formed therein through which untreated water flows and which terminates in an inner radial peripheral water inlet port;
B. providing a tubular filter assembly including (1) a tubular filter element having an outlet communicating with a discharge port formed in said manifold and having an inlet communicating with said inlet port, and (2) a brine seal sealingly mounted on said filter element; then C. connecting said filter element to said manifold and sealingly engaging said support with said brine seal at a location above said inlet port;
and then D. inserting a filter housing over said filter element from below.
17. A method as defined in claim 16, wherein said step of providing a filter element further includes providing a fitting extending upwardly from an upper axial surface of said filter element, and said step of providing a brine seal includes providing a brine seal having (a) an internal ring which engages said fitting, and (b) a plurality of ribs which extend radially from said internal ring and which reinforce said upper axial surface of said filter element.
18. A liquid filtration system comprising:
A. a manifold having a water discharge port formed therein;
B. a tubular support extending from said manifold, said support having an internal passage formed therein through which untreated water flows and which terminates in an untreated water inlet port formed in an inner radial peripheral surface thereof;
C. a tubular falter element having a first axial end defining an outlet communicating with said discharge port and having a second axial end defining an inlet communicating with said inlet port;
D. a brine seal comprising (1) a tubular body having a. a first portion mounted on said falter element proximate said first axial end, and b. a second portion extending axially beyond said first axial end of said filter element, said brine seal further comprising (2) a skirt which extends from an outer peripheral surface of said body to said support to :isolate said inlet port from said discharge port; and E. a filter housing which is mounted on said tubular support and which is sealed except at an axial end thereof located adjacent said first axial end of said filter element.
A. a manifold having a water discharge port formed therein;
B. a tubular support extending from said manifold, said support having an internal passage formed therein through which untreated water flows and which terminates in an untreated water inlet port formed in an inner radial peripheral surface thereof;
C. a tubular falter element having a first axial end defining an outlet communicating with said discharge port and having a second axial end defining an inlet communicating with said inlet port;
D. a brine seal comprising (1) a tubular body having a. a first portion mounted on said falter element proximate said first axial end, and b. a second portion extending axially beyond said first axial end of said filter element, said brine seal further comprising (2) a skirt which extends from an outer peripheral surface of said body to said support to :isolate said inlet port from said discharge port; and E. a filter housing which is mounted on said tubular support and which is sealed except at an axial end thereof located adjacent said first axial end of said filter element.
19. A liquid filtration system comprising:
A. a manifold having a water inlet port, a rinse water discharge port, and a treated water discharge port formed therein;
B. a tubular support extending from said manifold, said support having a passage formed therein which extends internally through said support to said water inlet port of said manifold, through which untreated water flows, and which terminates in an untreated water inlet port formed in an inner radial peripheral surface of said support;
C. a tubular falter element having (1) first and second outlets formed in a first axial end thereof and communicating with said rinse water discharge port and said treated water discharge port, respectively, and (2) an inlet formed in a second axial end thereof and communicating with said untreated water inlet port of said support; and D. a brine seal which is sealingly mounted on said filter element and which sealingly engages said inner peripheral surface of said support between said first axial end of said filter element and said untreated water inlet port to isolate said untreated water inlet port from said rinse water discharge port.
A. a manifold having a water inlet port, a rinse water discharge port, and a treated water discharge port formed therein;
B. a tubular support extending from said manifold, said support having a passage formed therein which extends internally through said support to said water inlet port of said manifold, through which untreated water flows, and which terminates in an untreated water inlet port formed in an inner radial peripheral surface of said support;
C. a tubular falter element having (1) first and second outlets formed in a first axial end thereof and communicating with said rinse water discharge port and said treated water discharge port, respectively, and (2) an inlet formed in a second axial end thereof and communicating with said untreated water inlet port of said support; and D. a brine seal which is sealingly mounted on said filter element and which sealingly engages said inner peripheral surface of said support between said first axial end of said filter element and said untreated water inlet port to isolate said untreated water inlet port from said rinse water discharge port.
20. A method of treating water comprising:
A. providing a filtration system comprising a manifold, a support extending from said manifold, a tubular filter element extending from said support and having an axial outlet surrounded by said support and an axial inlet remote from said support, and a housing encasing said filter element with a space formed therebetween;
B. feeding untreated water through an internal passage formed in said support, out of an untreated water inlet port formed in an inner radial peripheral surface of said support, and into said space between said housing and said filter element; then C. directing said untreated water toward and into said inlet of said filter element while preventing said untreated water from flowing to said outlet;
and then D. treating said untreated water in said filter element.
A. providing a filtration system comprising a manifold, a support extending from said manifold, a tubular filter element extending from said support and having an axial outlet surrounded by said support and an axial inlet remote from said support, and a housing encasing said filter element with a space formed therebetween;
B. feeding untreated water through an internal passage formed in said support, out of an untreated water inlet port formed in an inner radial peripheral surface of said support, and into said space between said housing and said filter element; then C. directing said untreated water toward and into said inlet of said filter element while preventing said untreated water from flowing to said outlet;
and then D. treating said untreated water in said filter element.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002142424A CA2142424C (en) | 1995-02-13 | 1995-02-13 | Brine seal for tubular filter |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002142424A CA2142424C (en) | 1995-02-13 | 1995-02-13 | Brine seal for tubular filter |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2142424A1 CA2142424A1 (en) | 1996-08-14 |
| CA2142424C true CA2142424C (en) | 2000-01-18 |
Family
ID=4155234
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002142424A Expired - Lifetime CA2142424C (en) | 1995-02-13 | 1995-02-13 | Brine seal for tubular filter |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2142424C (en) |
-
1995
- 1995-02-13 CA CA002142424A patent/CA2142424C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2142424A1 (en) | 1996-08-14 |
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