CN115703027A

CN115703027A - Fuel water separator with dual seal design on filter cartridge

Info

Publication number: CN115703027A
Application number: CN202110920687.0A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 曾孟; 胡芹; 张亦云
Original assignee: Cummins Filtration Shanghai Co Ltd
Current assignee: Cummins Filtration Shanghai Co Ltd
Priority date: 2021-08-11
Filing date: 2021-08-11
Publication date: 2023-02-17

Abstract

The present application relates to a fuel water separator employing a dual seal design on a filter cartridge. A filtration system includes a filter head and a filter cartridge. The filter head includes a filter head body and an inlet for receiving a fluid. The filter cartridge includes a housing and a filter element. The housing defines an interior volume and includes a housing wall. The filter element is at least partially contained within the housing. The filter element includes a filter media for filtering a fluid, a first endplate, and a second endplate. The first endplate is coupled to the first end of the filter media and includes a first seal member that forms a first radial seal between the first endplate and the filter head body. The second endplate is coupled to the second end of the filter media and includes a second seal member that forms a second radial seal between the second endplate and the housing wall.

Description

Fuel water separator with dual seal design on filter cartridge

Technical Field

The present application relates generally to fuel water separator assemblies (fuel water separator assemblies) for supplying filtered fuel to downstream devices.

Background

The fuel water separator assembly may be used to separate water from the fuel to protect downstream equipment from corrosion. The fuel water separator assembly may further protect downstream devices by including a filter element to separate impurities from the fuel that may damage the downstream devices. However, some fuel water separator assemblies may be complex, which may increase the cost of manufacturing the fuel water separator assembly.

Disclosure of Invention

Various embodiments provide a filtration system including a filter head and a filter cartridge. The filter head includes a filter head body and an inlet for receiving a fluid. A filter cartridge is coupled to the filter head. The filter cartridge includes a housing and a filter element. The housing defines an interior volume and includes a housing wall. The filter element is at least partially contained within the housing. The filter element includes a filter media, a first endplate, and a second endplate. The filter media is used to filter a fluid. The first endplate is coupled to a first end of the filter media. The first endplate includes a first seal member that forms a first radial seal between the first endplate and the filter head body. The second endplate is coupled to the second end of the filter media. The second end plate includes a second seal member that forms a second radial seal between the second end plate and the housing wall.

In some embodiments, when the filter cartridge is coupled to the filter head, the filter element is at least partially located within the filter head body such that the inlet is generally located between the first endplate and the second endplate.

In some embodiments, the filter element is positioned such that a gap is formed between the filter head body and the first endplate.

In some embodiments, the filter head body, the housing wall, the first endplate, the second endplate, and the filter media at least partially define an exterior space, and the first endplate, the second endplate, and the filter media at least partially define an interior space such that: fluid flows from the inlet into the outer space and radially through the filter media, resulting in filtered fluid; flowing the filtered fluid through a coalescing media to separate water from the filtered fluid, resulting in a filtered and separated fluid; and the filtered and separated fluid flows through the interior space.

In some embodiments, the filter head further comprises: an outlet for providing the filtered and separated fluid to a downstream component; a check valve having a check valve inlet disposed at the gap and a check valve outlet disposed at the outlet, the check valve operable between an open position and a closed position; a central hub extending axially away from the filter head body, the central hub fluidly coupled to the outlet; and a pump coupled to the filter head body at the central hub and fluidly coupled to the central hub and the outlet.

In some embodiments, when the pump is activated, the filtered and separated fluid flows along a first flow path defined by the flow of the filtered and separated fluid from the interior space, through the central hub, through the activated pump, and through the outlet.

In some embodiments, the check valve is biased to the closed position when the pump is activated.

In some embodiments, when the pump is not activated, the filtered and separated fluid flows along a second flow path defined by the flow of the filtered and separated fluid from the interior space into the gap, through the check valve, and through the outlet.

In some embodiments, the check valve is biased to the open position when the pump is not activated, such that the filtered and separated fluid is able to flow through the check valve.

In some embodiments, the first end plate further comprises: a first endplate inner annular wall defining a first endplate central opening, the central hub extending at least partially through the first endplate central opening; a first end plate outer annular wall; a first end plate end wall extending between the first end plate inner annular wall and the first end plate outer annular wall; and a first endplate circumferential channel extending around a circumference of the first endplate outer annular wall, the first endplate circumferential channel receiving the first seal member such that the first radial seal is formed between the first endplate and the filter head body at the first endplate circumferential channel.

In some embodiments, the filter element further comprises a center tube coupled to the first endplate and the second endplate, the center tube at least partially defining the interior space and comprising the coalescing media; and wherein the filtered fluid flows through the coalescing media prior to entering the interior space such that water is separated from the filtered fluid.

In some embodiments, the filtration system further comprises: a collection bowl at an axial end of the housing wall for receiving water; and a drain valve for draining water from the collection bowl.

In some embodiments, the housing and the collection bowl are integrally formed as a single component.

Various embodiments provide a filter cartridge for a separator assembly. The filter cartridge includes a housing and a filter element. The housing includes a housing wall. The filter element is at least partially received by the housing. The filter element includes a filter media, a first endplate, a first seal member, a second endplate, and a second seal member. The filter media is configured to filter a fluid. The first endplate is coupled to the first end of the filter media. The first end plate defines a first end plate circumferential channel. A first seal member is disposed in the first end plate circumferential channel. The first seal member is configured to form a radial seal between the first endplate and the filter head when the filter cartridge is installed on the filter head. The second endplate is coupled to a second end of the filter media, the second end being opposite the first end. The second end plate defines a second end plate circumferential channel. A second seal member is disposed in the second endplate circumferential channel. The second seal member is configured to form a radial seal between the second end plate and the housing wall.

In some embodiments, the first sealing member has a first diameter and a first cross-sectional diameter, the second sealing member has a second diameter and a second cross-sectional diameter; wherein the first diameter and the second diameter are equal; and wherein the first cross-sectional diameter and the second cross-sectional diameter are equal.

In some embodiments, the filter element further comprises a center tube coupled to the first and second endplates and defining an interior space, the center tube comprising a hydrophobic screen, and the center tube configured to: receiving filtered and unseparated fluid from the filter media; and separating water from the filtered and unseparated fluid by the hydrophobic screen.

In some embodiments, the filter cartridge further comprises: a collection bowl at an axial end of the housing wall for receiving water; and a drain valve for draining water from the collection bowl.

In some embodiments, the filter element is configured to be positioned within the separator assembly such that the inlet of the separator assembly is located between the first endplate and the second endplate.

Various embodiments provide a method of fluid filtration and separation, the method comprising:

receiving fluid at an inlet by a separator assembly, the separator assembly including a filter head and a filter cartridge, the filter cartridge including a housing having a housing wall and a filter element having a filter media, a first endplate, and a second endplate;

flowing the fluid into an exterior space defined between the housing wall, the first endplate, the second endplate, the filter head, and the filter media;

filtering the fluid, including separating contaminants from the fluid by flowing the fluid radially through the filter media, thereby obtaining a filtered fluid;

separating water from the filtered fluid, thereby obtaining a filtered and separated fluid; and

flowing the filtered and separated fluid into an interior space, the interior space defined by the filter element;

the pump is activated, thereby biasing the check valve to a closed position and causing the filtered and separated fluid to flow along the first flow path.

In some embodiments, the flow of the filtered and separated fluid along the first flow path comprises: flowing the filtered and separated fluid from the interior space and into a central body of the filter head; and an outlet for flowing the filtered and separated fluid from the central body and through the filter head.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises deactivating the pump, thereby biasing the check valve to an open position and allowing the filtered and separated fluid to flow along a second flow path.

In some embodiments, the flow of the filtered and separated fluid along the second flow path comprises: flowing the filtered and separated fluid from the interior space into a gap between the first endplate and the filter head and radially outward of the central body; flowing fluid through the check valve; and flowing the fluid through the outlet.

In some embodiments, flowing the filtered and separated fluid from the interior space into the gap further comprises flowing the filtered and separated fluid through a first endplate central opening defined by a first endplate interior annular wall.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises: water is gathered into water drops through a hydrophobic filter screen; and collecting the water droplets in a collection bowl.

Various other embodiments provide a method of filtering a fluid. The method includes receiving a fluid at an inlet through a separator assembly. The separator assembly includes a filter head and a filter cartridge. The filter cartridge includes a housing having a housing wall and a filter element having a filter media, a first endplate, and a second endplate. Fluid flows into an exterior space defined between the housing wall, the first endplate, the second endplate, the filter head, and the filter media. Filtering contaminants from the fluid by radially flowing the fluid through the filter media to obtain a filtered fluid. The water is then separated from the filtered fluid to form a filtered and separated fluid. The filtered and separated fluid flows into the interior space. The interior space is defined by the filter element. The pump is activated, thereby biasing the check valve to a closed position and causing the filtered and separated fluid to flow along the first flow path.

These and other features, together with the organization and manner of operation thereof, will become apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like elements have like numerals throughout the several drawings described below.

Drawings

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a fuel water separator assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 1B is a perspective sectional view of the fuel water separator of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a filter element for use with the fuel water separator of FIG. 1A, according to an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 2B is a detailed cross-sectional view of the filter element of fig. 2A, showing a first endplate.

Fig. 2C is a detailed cross-sectional view of the filter element of fig. 2A, showing a second endplate.

FIG. 3A is a detailed perspective cross-sectional view of the fuel water separator of FIG. 1A, illustrating a fluid flow path through the filter element.

FIG. 3B is another detailed cross-sectional view of the fuel water separator of FIG. 1A, illustrating the fluid flow path.

Detailed Description

Referring generally to the drawings, various embodiments disclosed herein relate to a filtration system including a fuel water separator assembly having a dual seal filter element.

Fuel water separator assembly

Referring to fig. 1A and 1B, a perspective view and a cross-sectional perspective view of a fuel water separator assembly 100 are shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The fuel water separator assembly 100 is configured to provide filtered fuel to a downstream device, such as an engine. As shown, fuel water separator assembly 100 includes a filter head 110 and a filter cartridge 160. Filter cartridge 160 includes housing 170, collar 190, and filter element 200. The housing 170 is configured to at least partially contain or house the filter element 200. The housing 170 is coupled to the filter head 110 by a collar 190. When the housing 170 is coupled to the filter head 110 (e.g., via the collar 190), the filter element 200 is at least partially housed within the filter head 110 and/or at least partially housed within the housing 170.

Filter head

As shown, the filter head 110 includes a filter head body 114, an inlet portion 120, an outlet portion 130, a central hub 140, and a pump 150. The filter head 110 is configured to at least partially house the filter element 200 and facilitate fluid input to and output from the fuel water separator assembly 100.

The filter head body 114 includes a head wall 116 that defines an outer surface of the head body. The head wall 116 also defines an inner surface of the filter head body 114. The filter head body 114 includes one or more threads 118. In the embodiment shown, the one or more threads 118 are outwardly facing threads (e.g., male threads). In other embodiments, one or more of the threads 118 are inward-facing threads (e.g., female threads). The one or more threads 118 are configured to threadably couple to the collar 190.

The inlet portion 120 includes a first inlet side 122 and a second inlet side 124. At least one of the first inlet side 122 and the second inlet side 124 is configured to receive a fitting (not shown). The fitting is configured to facilitate coupling the inlet portion 120 to an inlet fluid line (e.g., a fluid line for providing dirty/unfiltered fuel). According to one embodiment, at least one of the first inlet side 122 and the second inlet side 124 may optionally be configured to receive a Filtration Intelligence Technology (FIT) device (not shown). The FIT device is configured to detect one or more parameters (e.g., pressure, mass, etc.) of the fluid at the inlet portion 120. In some embodiments, the inlet portion 120 includes only one of the first inlet side 122 and the second inlet side 124.

The outlet section includes a first outlet side 132 and a second outlet side 134. At least one of the first outlet side 132 and the second outlet side 134 is configured to receive a fitting (not shown). The fitting is configured to facilitate coupling of the outlet portion 130 to an outlet fluid line (e.g., a fluid line for providing clean/filtered fuel to downstream devices). According to one embodiment, at least one of the first exit side 132 and the second exit side 134 may optionally be configured to receive a Filtering Intelligence Technology (FIT) device (not shown). The FIT device is configured to detect one or more parameters (e.g., pressure, mass, etc.) of the fluid at the outlet portion 130. In some embodiments, the outlet portion 130 includes only one of the first outlet side 132 and the second outlet side 134.

As shown in fig. 1B, the filter head 110 includes a central hub 140 disposed on the interior of the filter head 110. The central hub extends axially away from filter head body 114 and toward filter cartridge 160. The central hub 140 extends at least partially through the filter element 200. The central hub 140 is sealingly coupled to the filter head body 114. Accordingly, the central hub 140 includes one or more sealing members, such as O-rings or gaskets, shown as sealing members 142. The sealing member 142 forms a fluid-tight seal between the central hub 140 and the filter head body 114 such that fluid is substantially prevented from flowing between the filter head body 114 and the central hub 140.

As shown in fig. 1A, the pump 150 is located on the outer surface of the filter head body 114. Pump 150 is coupled to filter head body 114 at a top portion of central hub 140 by one or more fasteners 152. The pump 150 is operable to be selectively turned on or off. In some embodiments, the pump 150 is fluidly coupled to the central hub 140 such that the pump 150 is configured to direct fluid flow through the central hub 140. In some embodiments, the pump 150 is integrated with the central hub 140 such that the pump 150 and the central hub 140 are a unitary structure. The pump 150 is also fluidly coupled to the outlet portion 130 such that the pump is configured to direct a flow of fluid from the central hub 140 to the outlet portion 130 and out of the fuel water separator assembly 100. Pump 150 may be any suitable pump, such as an electric pump (e-pump), a brushed pump, a brushless pump, an Engine Control Module (ECM)/Engine Control Unit (ECU) controlled pump, and/or an autonomous pump. Thus, the pump may be operable to turn on or off based on signals from the ECM, one or more sensors (e.g., a FIT device), and/or an internal control system.

Filter cartridge

As briefly described above, filter cartridge 160 includes housing 170, collar 190, and filter element 200. In one embodiment, the filter element 200 is removably coupled to the housing 170. In another embodiment, filter element 200 is permanently secured within housing 170 such that filter element 200 cannot be removed from housing 170 without causing damage to filter element 200 and/or housing 170.

Outer casing

The housing 170 includes a housing wall 172, an annular flange 174, and a collection bowl 176. The housing 170 defines an interior volume 178. The housing 170 is configured to at least partially house the filter element 200 (e.g., within the interior volume 178). The housing wall 172 is a generally ring-shaped wall that defines an inner surface and an outer surface of the housing 170. The housing wall 172 may be made of a plastic material. The housing wall 172 may be transparent or translucent.

An annular flange 174 extends radially outwardly from housing wall 172. An annular flange 174 is disposed on a first side of the housing 170 and adjacent the filter head 110.

As shown, the collection bowl 176 is a dome-shaped portion of the housing 170. The collection bowl 176 is disposed on a second side of the housing 170 opposite the first side such that the collection bowl 176 is axially distal from the filter head 110. The collection bowl 176 is configured to temporarily store water separated from the fuel (until such time as the water drains from the collection bowl 176). In some embodiments, the collection bowl 176 is separate from the housing 170. For example, in one embodiment, the collection bowl 176 is removably coupled to the housing 170.

The collection bowl 176 includes one or more ports for receiving additional devices. For example, the housing 170 includes a Water In Fuel (WIF) sensor 180 for detecting the presence of water in the fuel. The housing 170 also includes a heater 182 for heating the water stored in the collection bowl 176. As shown, the housing 170 includes a drain and/or drain valve (shown as drain 184) for draining water from the collection bowl 176. The drain 184 may be a manual drain or an automatic drain that is controlled based on sensor readings (e.g., sensor readings from the WIF sensor 180). The housing 170 may optionally include an identification device 186, such as a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag, a physical tag, a scannable code (e.g., a quick response code), and/or any other suitable identification device.

Lantern ring

Collar 190 is configured to facilitate coupling of filter cartridge 160 to filter head 110. As shown in fig. 1B, collar 190 includes one or more threads 192. In the embodiment shown, the one or more threads 192 are inward-facing threads (e.g., internal threads). In other embodiments, one or more threads 192 are outwardly facing threads or external threads. The one or more threads 192 are configured to threadably couple the collar 190 to the filter head 110. Collar 190 also includes a radially inwardly extending radial flange 194. The collar 190 is positioned around the housing 170 such that the annular flange 174 of the housing 170 is retained between the head wall 116 and the radial flange 194 when the collar 190 is threadably coupled to the filter head 110. Thus, by retaining the annular flange 174 of the housing 170, the filter cartridge 160 is coupled to the filter head 110 by the collar 190.

Filter element

As shown in fig. 1B, the filter element 200 includes a filter media 202, a center tube 204, a first endplate 210, and a second endplate 230. The filter element 200 is at least partially housed or contained within the housing 170. Filter element 200 may be partially housed or contained within filter head 110 (e.g., when filter cartridge 160 is coupled to filter head 110). In the embodiments presented herein, the first endplate 210 of the filter element 200 is generally located above the inlet portion 120 such that fluid (e.g., unfiltered fluid, such as an unfiltered fuel-water mixture) flowing into the fuel water separator assembly 100 flows into the filter element 200 generally below the first endplate 210. An exterior space 206 is defined between the filter element 200, the filter head 110, and the housing 170.

The filter media 202 is located between the first end plate 210 and the second end plate 230 and is coupled to the first end plate 210 and the second end plate 230. The filter media 202 is coiled in a cylindrical or annular configuration. In some embodiments, the filter media 202 is pleated. The filter media 202 is configured to allow unfiltered fluid to be filtered by flowing through the filter media 202. As briefly described above, unfiltered fluid entering the fuel-water separator assembly 100 via the inlet portion 120 flows into the filter element 200 below the first endplate 210. Thus, unfiltered fluid flows from the inlet portion 120 into and through the filter media 202. As the unfiltered fluid flows through the filter media 202, the filter media 202 removes impurities, such as particulates, organics, and the like, from the unfiltered fluid.

A center tube 204 is positioned within the filter media 202. The center tube 204 is fixedly coupled to the filter media 202, the first end plate 210, and/or the second end plate 230. The center tube 204 defines an interior space 208 radially inward from the filter media 202. In some embodiments, the center tube 204 includes coalescing media, such as a hydrophobic screen (screen) that separates water from the fluid. For example, filtered, but unseparated fluid (e.g., a filtered fuel-water mixture) flows through the coalescing media, and the coalescing media can separate water from the filtered fluid. The interior space 208 at least partially defines a fluid path for filtered and separated fuel to flow through (e.g., in a generally axial direction). When the water is separated from the fuel at the coalescing media, the water coalesces into larger droplets and falls into the collection bowl 176. As described above, the collection bowl 176 includes the drain 184 for draining water from the collection bowl. The water may be drained manually or automatically (e.g., based on sensor readings from the WIF sensor 180).

As shown in fig. 1B, a first endplate 210 is coupled to a first end of the filter media 202. First endplate 210 is configured to form a radial seal between first endplate 210 and filter head body 114 such that fluid may not flow between first endplate 210 and filter head body 114.

As shown in fig. 1B, a second endplate 230 is coupled to the second end of the filter media 202. As shown, the second end of the filter media 202 is opposite the first end of the filter media 202. Second end plate 230 is configured to form a radial seal between second end plate 230 and shell wall 172 such that fluid may not flow between second end plate 230 and shell wall 172.

Referring now to fig. 2A, a perspective view of a filter element 200 according to an example embodiment is shown. As shown, the first end plate 210 includes a first end plate inner annular wall 214, a first end plate outer annular wall 220, and a first end plate end wall 212 extending between the first end plate inner annular wall 214 and the first end plate outer annular wall 220. The first endplate inner annular wall 214 defines a first endplate central opening 216.

Referring now to fig. 2B, a detailed cross-sectional view of an upper portion of filter cartridge 160 is shown. As shown, the first endplate central opening 216 is configured to at least partially receive the central hub 140. The first endplate inner annular wall 214, the first endplate end wall 212, and the first endplate outer annular wall 220 define a first endplate annular channel 228. The filter media 202 is coupled to the first endplate 210 at the first endplate annular channel 228. The center tube 204 is also coupled to the first end plate 210 at a first end plate annular channel 228. The first end plate outer annular wall 220 includes a first end plate circumferential channel 222 extending around the circumference of the first end plate outer annular wall 220. As shown in fig. 2B, the first end plate circumferential channel 222 is configured to receive a sealing member, such as an O-ring or gasket, shown as first sealing member 224. First seal member 224 forms a radial seal between first end plate 210 and filter head body 114, wherein first seal member 224 is radially positioned between first end plate 210 and filter head body 114. Accordingly, first sealing member 224 is configured to form a fluid-tight seal between first end plate 210 and filter head body 114 such that fluid is substantially prevented from flowing between first end plate 210 and filter head body 114. For example, unfiltered fluid is substantially prevented from flowing between first end plate 210 and filter head body 114 from exterior space 206 to gap 226, and filtered and separated fuel is prevented from flowing between first end plate 210 and filter head body 114 from gap 226 to exterior space 206.

As shown in fig. 2B, the filter element 200 is at least partially positioned within the filter head 110 such that a gap 226 is formed between the first endplate end wall 212 and the filter head body 114. The gap 226 at least partially defines a fluid flow path for the fluid (e.g., filtered and separated fuel). As shown, the filter head body 114 includes a check valve 148, the check valve 148 being located at a first radial end of the gap 226. Check valve 148 is fluidly coupled to outlet portion 130. The check valve 148 is operable between a closed position and an open position. In the open position, the check valve 148 allows fluid (e.g., filtered and separated fuel) to flow from the gap 226 to the outlet portion 130. In the closed position, the check valve 148 substantially prevents fluid (e.g., filtered and separated fuel) from flowing from the gap 226 to the outlet portion 130. The check valve 148 may operate between an open position and a closed position based on a pressure differential between an inlet and an outlet of the check valve 148 (e.g., a fluid pressure differential between the gap 226 and the outlet portion 130).

Referring now to fig. 2C, a detailed perspective view of a lower portion of filter cartridge 160 is shown. As shown, the second end plate 230 is substantially similar or identical to the first end plate 210 such that the second end plate 230 includes the same or substantially similar features. Accordingly, the design of filter element 200 reduces manufacturing costs by including two identical endplates and reducing the need for additional specialized manufacturing equipment.

As shown in fig. 2C, the second end plate 230 includes a second end plate inner wall 234, a second end plate outer wall 240, and a second end plate end wall 232 extending between the second end plate inner wall 234 and the second end plate outer wall 240. The second endplate inner wall 234 defines a second endplate central opening 236. As shown in fig. 2C, the second endplate inner wall 234 extends at least partially into the interior space 208. The second endplate inner wall 234, the second endplate end wall 232, and the second endplate outer wall 240 form a second endplate annular channel 238. The filter media 202 is coupled to the second endplate 230 at the second endplate annular channel 238. The center tube 204 is also coupled to the second end plate 230 at a second end plate annular channel 238. The second endplate outer wall 240 includes a second endplate circumferential channel 242 that extends around the circumference of the second endplate outer wall 240. As shown in fig. 2C, the second end plate circumferential channel 242 is configured to receive a sealing member, such as an O-ring or gasket, shown as a second sealing member 244. The second seal member 244 forms a radial seal between the second end plate 230 and the housing wall 172, wherein the second seal member 244 is radially positioned between the second end plate 230 and the housing wall 172. Accordingly, the second sealing member 244 is configured to form a fluid-tight seal between the second end plate 230 and the housing wall 172 such that fluid is substantially prevented from flowing between the housing wall 172 and the second end plate 230. For example, unfiltered fluid is substantially prevented from flowing from the exterior space 206 to the collection bowl 176 between the second end plate 230 and the housing wall 172, and separated water is substantially prevented from flowing from the collection bowl to the exterior space 206.

As briefly described above, the first end plate 210 and the second end plate 230 are substantially similar or identical to each other. That is, the first end plate 210 and the second end plate 230 use the same end plate and gasket design. Thus, the first and

second seal members

224, 244 are both generally annular in shape and have the same diameter and the same cross-sectional diameter.

The first end plate 210 and the second end plate 230 are positioned such that the first end plate end wall 212 and the second end plate end wall 232 are substantially parallel to each other. The filter element 200 is positioned such that the inlet portion 120 is generally located between a first plane defined by the first endplate endwall 212 and a second plane defined by the second endplate endwall 232. The first plane and the second plane are substantially parallel to each other.

Flow path

Referring now to fig. 3A and 3B, various cross-sectional views of the fuel water separator assembly 100 are shown. It should be noted that although the present description relates to filtration and separation of fuel-water mixtures, the systems and methods provided herein may be applied to filtration and separation of various other fluids.

As shown, unfiltered and unseparated fuel flows through the inlet portion 120 (e.g., through the inlet first side 122) along the inlet flow path 302. Unfiltered fuel flows through the inlet portion 120 and into the outer space 206 radially outward of the filter media 202. As briefly described above, unfiltered fuel is prevented from flowing from the exterior space 206 to the gap 226 by the radial seal formed between the filter head body 114 and the first end plate 210 by the first seal member 224. Similarly, unfiltered fuel is prevented from flowing from the outer space 206 to the collection bowl 176 by the radial seal formed between the housing wall 172 and the second end plate 230 by the second seal member 244. The unfiltered fuel then flows radially inward through the filter media 202 and the center tube 204 and into the interior space 208, as indicated by arrows 304. As the unfiltered fuel flows through the filter media 202, contaminants, such as particulate matter, organic matter, etc., are removed from the unfiltered fuel. Unfiltered fuel is filtered by the filter media 202 and filtered but unseparated fuel (e.g., filtered fuel-water mixture) flows to the coalescing media of the center tube 204. The water is then separated from the filtered fuel-water mixture. For example, as the filtered fuel-water mixture flows through the center tube 204, water present in the filtered fuel-water mixture deposits on the hydrophobic screen. As more of the filtered fuel-water mixture flows through the center tube 204 and more water is separated from the fuel, the water deposited on the hydrophobic screen coalesces and forms water droplets or droplets by the action of surface tension in the water. As these beads grow, their weight causes them to fall to the bottom of the filter cartridge 160, where they are collected in the collection bowl 176. As described above, the collected water is periodically drained from the collection bowl 176. The filtered and separated fuel enters the interior space 208.

After flowing through the filter media 202 and the center tube 204, the fuel water separator assembly 100 defines a first flow path 306 and a second flow path 308 for the filtered and separated fuel. The fuel water separator assembly 100 is configured to selectively direct fuel flow along either the first flow path 306 or the second flow path 308. For example, when the pump 150 is activated, the filtered and separated fuel flows along the first flow path 306. When the pump is not activated, the filtered and separated fuel flows along the second flow path 308. As shown in fig. 3A and 3B, first flow path 306 is at least partially defined by filter element 200 (including filter media 202, first endplate 210 and second endplate 230), central hub 140, and outlet portion 130. Fuel is directed to flow from the interior space 208 through the inlet 144 of the central hub 140 and axially toward the pump 150. The fuel is then directed to flow through the outlet portion 130 and out of the fuel water separator assembly 100.

As briefly described above, when the pump 150 is activated, fuel flows along the first flow path 306. For example, the pump 150 is configured to direct fuel from the interior space 208 through the central hub 140 and out of the fuel water separator assembly 100 via the outlet portion 130. When the pump 150 is activated, the pressure at the outlet portion 130 biases the check valve 148 to the closed position, substantially preventing fuel from flowing along the second flow path 308. The check valve 148 also substantially prevents fuel from flowing from the outlet portion 130 to the gap 226.

As shown in fig. 3A and 3B, the second flow path 308 is at least partially defined by the filter element 200 (including the filter media 202, the first end plate 210, and the second end plate 230), the check valve 148, and the outlet portion 130. Fuel is directed to flow from the interior space 208 along the second flow path 308, through the first end plate central opening 216, and into the gap 226. Fuel is substantially prevented from flowing from gap 226 to exterior space 206 by the radial seal formed between filter head body 114 and first end plate 210 by first seal member 224. The fuel is then directed to flow through the check valve 148 and out of the fuel water separator assembly 100 through the outlet portion 130. Thus, the second flow path 308 is substantially outside of the central hub 140.

As briefly described above, when the pump 150 is not activated, fuel is allowed to flow along the second flow path 308. For example, fuel flows from the interior space 208 through the check valve 148 and out of the fuel water separator assembly 100 via the outlet portion 130. When the pump 150 is not activated, the pressure at the outlet portion 130 biases the check valve 148 to the open position such that fuel is allowed to flow along the second flow path 308.

It should be noted that the term "example" as used herein to describe various embodiments is intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, and/or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such term is not intended to imply that such embodiments must be unusual or best examples).

As used herein, the term "approximate" and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. The term "approximately" as used herein refers to ± 5% of a reference measurement, position, or size. Those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will appreciate that these terms are intended to allow description of certain features described and claimed without limiting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the invention as recited in the appended claims.

The terms "coupled," "attached," and similar terms as used herein mean that two members are directly engaged with each other. Such engagement may be stationary (e.g., permanent) or movable (e.g., removable or releasable).

References herein to the location of elements (e.g., "top," "bottom," "above," "below," etc.) are used merely to describe the orientation of the various elements in the figures. It should be noted that the orientation of different elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and such variations are intended to be covered by the present disclosure.

It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the various exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited herein. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the concepts presented herein.

While this specification contains many specifics of particular embodiments, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any invention or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiments of particular inventions. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

Claims

1. A filtration system comprising:

a filter head comprising a filter head body and an inlet for receiving fluid;

a filter cartridge coupled to the filter head, the filter cartridge comprising:

a housing defining an interior volume, the housing including a housing wall;

a filter element at least partially housed within the housing, the filter element comprising:

a filter medium for filtering a fluid, thereby obtaining a filtered fluid;

a first endplate coupled to a first end of the filter media, the first endplate having a first seal member that forms a first radial seal between the first endplate and the filter head body; and

a second endplate coupled to the second end of the filter media, the second endplate having a second seal member that forms a second radial seal between the second endplate and the housing wall.

2. The filtration system of claim 1, wherein, when the filter cartridge is coupled to the filter head, the filter element is at least partially located within the filter head body such that the inlet is located generally between the first endplate and the second endplate.

3. The filtration system of claim 1, wherein the filter element is positioned such that a gap is formed between the filter head body and the first endplate.

4. The filtration system of claim 3, wherein the filter head body, the housing wall, the first endplate, the second endplate, and the filter media at least partially define an exterior space and the first endplate, the second endplate, and the filter media at least partially define an interior space such that:

fluid flows from the inlet into the outer space and radially through the filter media, thereby obtaining filtered fluid;

flowing the filtered fluid through a coalescing media to separate water from the filtered fluid, resulting in a filtered and separated fluid; and is

The filtered and separated fluid flows through the interior space.

5. The filtration system of claim 4, wherein the filter head further comprises:

an outlet for providing the filtered and separated fluid to a downstream component;

a check valve having a check valve inlet disposed at the gap and a check valve outlet disposed at the outlet, the check valve operable between an open position and a closed position;

a central hub extending axially away from the filter head body, the central hub fluidly coupled to the outlet; and

a pump coupled to the filter head body at the central hub and fluidly coupled to the central hub and the outlet.

6. The filtration system of claim 5, wherein when the pump is activated, the filtered and separated fluid flows along a first flow path defined by flow of the filtered and separated fluid from the interior space through the central hub, through the activated pump, and through the outlet.

7. A filtration system in accordance with claim 6, wherein the check valve is biased to the closed position when the pump is activated.

8. The filtration system of claim 5, wherein when the pump is not activated, the filtered and separated fluid flows along a second flow path defined by the flow of the filtered and separated fluid from the interior space into the gap, through the check valve, and through the outlet.

9. The filtration system of claim 8, wherein the check valve is biased to the open position when the pump is not activated such that the filtered and separated fluid can flow through the check valve.

10. The filtration system of any of claims 5-9, wherein the first endplate further comprises:

a first end plate inner annular wall defining a first end plate central opening through which the central hub extends at least partially;

a first end plate outer annular wall;

a first end plate end wall extending between the first end plate inner annular wall and the first end plate outer annular wall; and

a first endplate circumferential channel extending around a circumference of the first endplate outer annular wall, the first endplate circumferential channel receiving the first seal member such that the first radial seal is formed between the first endplate and the filter head body at the first endplate circumferential channel.

11. The filtration system of any of claims 4-9, wherein the filter element further comprises a center tube coupled to the first and second endplates, the center tube at least partially defining the interior space and comprising the coalescing media; and is

Wherein the filtered fluid flows through the coalescing media prior to entering the interior space such that water is separated from the filtered fluid.

12. The filtration system of any of claims 1-9, further comprising:

a collection bowl at an axial end of the housing wall for receiving water; and

a drain valve for draining water from the collection bowl.

13. The filtration system of claim 12, wherein the housing and the collection bowl are integrally formed as a single component.

14. A filter cartridge for a separator assembly, the filter cartridge comprising:

a housing comprising a housing wall;

a filter element at least partially received by the housing, the filter element comprising:

a filter media configured to filter a fluid;

a first endplate coupled to a first end of the filter media, the first endplate defining a first endplate circumferential channel;

a first sealing member disposed in the first endplate circumferential channel and configured to form a radial seal between the first endplate and the filter head when the filter cartridge is installed on the filter head;

a second endplate coupled to a second end of the filter media opposite the first end, the second endplate defining a second endplate circumferential channel;

a second seal member disposed in the second end plate circumferential channel and configured to form a radial seal between the second end plate and the housing wall.

15. The filter cartridge of claim 14, wherein the first sealing member has a first diameter and a first cross-sectional diameter and the second sealing member has a second diameter and a second cross-sectional diameter;

wherein the first diameter and the second diameter are equal; and is

Wherein the first cross-sectional diameter and the second cross-sectional diameter are equal.

16. The filter cartridge of claim 15, wherein the filter element further comprises a center tube coupled to the first and second endplates and defining an interior space, the center tube comprising a hydrophobic screen, and the center tube being configured to:

receiving filtered and unseparated fluid from the filter media; and

separating water from the filtered and unseparated fluid by the hydrophobic screen.

17. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 14-16, further comprising:

a collection bowl at an axial end of the housing wall for receiving water; and

a drain valve for draining water from the collection bowl.

18. The filter cartridge of claim 17, wherein the housing and the collection bowl are integrally formed as a single component.

19. The filter cartridge of any of claims 14-16 and 18, wherein the filter element is configured to be positioned within the separator assembly such that the inlet of the separator assembly is located between the first and second endplates.

20. A method of fluid filtration and separation, the method comprising:

the pump is activated to bias the check valve to a closed position and to cause the filtered and separated fluid to flow along the first flow path.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the flow of the filtered and separated fluid along the first flow path comprises:

flowing the filtered and separated fluid from the interior space and into a central body of the filter head; and

flowing the filtered and separated fluid from the central body and through an outlet of the filter head.

22. The method of claim 21, further comprising deactivating the pump, thereby biasing the check valve to an open position and allowing the filtered and separated fluid to flow along a second flow path.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the flow of the filtered and separated fluid along the second flow path comprises:

flowing the filtered and separated fluid from the interior space into a gap between the first endplate and the filter head and radially outward of the central body;

flowing fluid through the check valve; and

flowing a fluid through the outlet.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein flowing the filtered and separated fluid from the interior space into the gap further comprises flowing the filtered and separated fluid through a first endplate central opening defined by a first endplate inner annular wall.

25. The method according to any one of claims 20-24, further comprising:

water is gathered into water drops through a hydrophobic filter screen; and

the water droplets are collected in a collection bowl.