MXPA06004577A - Exhaust gas filter and filtering system - Google Patents

Abstract

An exhaust gas filter cartridge which is suitable for use in a muffler such as to form an exhaust gas filtering system is disclosed. The filter cartridge preferably includes a first porous longitudinal wall and a second porous longitudinal wall, both porous longitudinal walls having openings which allow for a sufficient gas flow through the filter cartridge. An absorbent material, preferably in pellet form, is housed substantially in-between the first porous longitudinal wall and the second porous longitudinal wall of the filter cartridge. The filter cartridge is preferably disposable. A guard casing may be used in conjunction with the filter cartridge to provide an exhaust gas filtering system. The guard casing preferably has two end closure structures. A gas inlet end structure is preferably associated with one end closure structure and a gas outlet end structure may be associated with the other end closure structure of the guard casing.

Description

EXHAUST GAS FILTER AND FILTRATION SYSTEM FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an exhaust gas filter and filtration system, such as a filter cartridge alone and in combination with "a filtration system such as a silencer." More particularly, the present invention relates to a exhaust gas filter of internal combustion engine and filtration system comprising a filter cartridge and an absorbent material operatively located within the filter cartridge.The absorbent material preferably absorbs liquids and gaseous fumes.A preferred absorbent material It's diatomite pellets.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Numerous attempts have been made to produce satisfactory filtering devices to remove objectionable components from the exhaust gases of internal combustion engines. The prior art filters have been subject to two common mechanical faults, namely channeling the gases in the filter element so that close contact between the gases to be filtered and the filter element and a deterioration of the structure of the exhaust gas filter element due to the corrosive effects of the exhaust gases at the high temperatures involved. The prior art describes several filtering devices. US Patent No. 5,470,364 to Adiletta is known in the art, which describes a diesel exhaust filter that includes a microporous filter to remove contaminating particles. The filter material can be made from fibers or powders, such as high purity silica, aluminosilicate or borosilicate-E glass. It is also known in the art from US Pat. No. 4,906,263 to Blucher et al, which discloses an adsorption filter for removing undesirable gases or fluids. The filter includes a fixed bed of adsorber particles that can be poured and are resistant to abrasion. The adsorber particles can be beds having a diameter of 0.1-1 mm. It is described that the diatomite is suitable for use. US Pat. No. 6,423,534, Bl, which discloses a method and apparatus for decomposing and removing ethanol in the exhaust gas, is also known. The apparatus includes a filter material comprising a. microorganism. The filter material for transporting the microorganism can be diatomaceous earth. US Patent 3,933,643 to Colvtn et al is also known, which discloses electrically conductive filter elements that include a carbonaceous conductive material and optionally other fibrous material, such as silica, or a bed type filter, such as a diatomaceous earth. US Pat. No. 4,728,503 to Lida et al is also known, which discloses a filter means for treating an exhaust gas that includes a porous ceramic substrate with a pre-coating layer to prevent clogging of the exhaust gas. porous substrate, and a layer of slaked lime or calcium carbonate and calcium chloride. The pre-coating layer may be of a domatomic earth powder. U.S. Patent No. 5,179,062 to Dufour is also known, which discloses a method for the production of filtering agents. The method involves the calcination of diatomites in a circulated bed furnace to control the agglomeration of the diatomaceous particles. It is also known that, in the prior art which relates to exhaust mufflers, including perforated tubes and a particle trap, are United States Patent No. 3,960,528 to Jacobs et al; U.S. Patent No. 4,318,720 to Hoggatt; U.S. Patent No. 5,223,009 to Schuster et al; and U.S. Patent No. 5,246,472 to Herman et al. None of these patents describe the use of diatomites with the silencer. The present invention achieves a remedy for the deficiencies of the prior art mentioned previously, and not solved in the prior art, through a novel filter device and filtration system, and in particular a novel filter cartridge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an exhaust gas filter and filtration system, such as a filter cartridge alone and in combination with a filtration system such as a silencer. More particularly, the present invention relates to an exhaust gas filter of internal combustion engine comprising a filter cartridge, which is preferably a disposable cartridge, and an absorbent material operatively located within the cartridge of filter. The absorbent material preferably absorbs liquids and gaseous fumes. The absorbent material is a diatomite material, preferably in pellet form. A protective cover, for example silencer housing, may be present in combination with the filter cartridge to form the filtration system. The protective cover preferably has closed-end structures and longitudinal internal surfaces. An exhaust gas inlet end structure is preferably associated with a closed end structure and a treated gas outlet end structure is preferably associated with the other end closure structure. The filter cartridge can preferably be designed for reception inside the protective cover. The filter cartridge has porous longitudinal surfaces and may have porous external end surfaces or nonporous external end surfaces. The filter cartridge can be of any suitable shape, for example tubular or rectangular, and comprises a first porous longitudinal wall, a second porous longitudinal wall and a gas and odor absorbing diatomite material substantially housed between the first porous longitudinal wall and the second porous longitudinal wall. In one embodiment the first and second porous longitudinal walls of the filter cartridge are an inner tube and an outer tube, respectively, both tubes having apertures of suitable size in order to allow adequate gas flow through the tubes to provide the treatment during the movement of the exhaust gas flow through the cartridge. Preferably, the openings are blinds or mesh openings that allow a greater gas flow through the internal and external tubes of the filter cartridge. As such, the filter cartridge is permeable to gas from one end to the other, radially from the longitudinal external surface thereof and radially from the longitudinal internal surface thereof. The gas and odor absorbing diatomite material is substantially housed between concentric layers of the filter cartridge, i.e., between the inner tube and the outer tube of the filter cartridge. The filter cartridge may also comprise a mesh tube and around the outer tube. The mesh tube helps control the exhaust gas flowing through the filter cartridge.

In another embodiment, the first porous longitudinal wall of the filter cartridge is a first rectangular wall and the second porous longitudinal wall is a second rectangular wall. The first and second porous rectangular walls are in alignment substantially spaced from one another, preferably parallel to each other, and are side walls of the filter cartridge which is substantially rectangular. Both rectangular side walls have openings of adequate size in order to allow adequate gas flow through the rectangular side walls in order to provide treatment during the movement of an exhaust gas flow through the cartridge. Preferably, the openings are blinds or mesh openings that allow a greater flow of gas through the rectangular side walls of the filter cartridge. The other walls, ie the upper, lower and two end walls, of the filter cartridge of this embodiment forming the longitudinal cartridge which is substantially rectangular in shape may be porous or non-porous surfaces. The gas absorbing and odorous diatomite material is substantially housed between the walls of the filter cartridge. The filtration system of the present invention may comprise separation means such as, but not limited to, at least one bracket, at least one support plate or at least one rail. The separation means, ie the bracket, support plate or rail, can be formed of a rigid sheet material, preferably refractory in relation to the temperature and the corrosive characteristics of the exhaust gases. The separating means may preferably be arranged in an adjacent relationship to the longitudinal inner surface of the protective cover to hold the filter cartridge inside the protective cover with the longitudinal outer walls or the end walls of the filter cartridge which is in contact with the filter. the means of separation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DIAMETERS Reference is now made to the drawings: Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a gas filter of the present invention in combination with a silencer structure; Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional longitudinal view of the first embodiment of the gas filter of the present invention in combination with a silencer structure; Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 of Figure 2; Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of Figure 2; Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the gas filter of the present invention in combination with a silencer structure; Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the gas filter of the present invention in combination with a silencer structure; Figure 7 shows a schematic view of the filter of the present invention in an environment of use, for example, attached to an exhaust pipe of an exhaust gas system; Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the gas filter of the present invention in combination with a silencer structure; Figure 9 shows a perspective view with a partial cut-out of a fifth embodiment of the gas filter of the present invention in combination "with a silencer structure;" Figure 10 shows a perspective view of the fifth embodiment of the gas filter of FIG. Figure 9: Figure 11 shows a partial cut-away end view of Figure 9, and Figure 12 shows a partial cut-away end view of a sixth embodiment of the gas filter of the present invention in combination with a silencer structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a gas filter preferably in the form of a disposable cartridge for use alone and in combination with an exhaust gas filtration system such as an exhaust gas system of internal combustion engine. Referring to Figures 1-12, an exhaust gas filtration system 10 of the present invention comprises (1) an elongated protective cover 12 having end closure structures and longitudinal internal surfaces, (2) a filter cartridge 24 , 24 'according to the invention, which is preferably replaceable; and (3) an absorbent material operatively located within the filter cartridge 24, 24'. An end gas inlet structure 14 is preferably associated with an end closure structure and a gas outlet end structure 16 is preferably associated with the other end closure structure of the protective cover 12. Since the filters of Exhaust gases from internal combustion engines often operate at temperatures as high as 500 ° F (260 ° C) and higher and include components that are extremely corrosive at elevated temperatures, the protective cover 12 and the filter cartridge 24, 24 'can be formed from a material such as, but not limited to, stainless steel, aluminum-coated steel, lead-coated steel, aluminum, metal alloy, galvanized metal alloy, a polymer-fiberglass material or any combination of them. A filtering system 10 made from aluminum or polymer-fiberglass is lightweight, strong and resistant to heat. The filter cartridge 24, 24 'of the present invention is preferably elongated, replaceable and structured for reception in the protective cover 12 operatively close to the gas inlet end structure 14. The filter cartridge 24, 24' has longitudinal surfaces porous and may or may not have porous extreme surfaces. The filter cartridge 24, 24 'comprises first porous longitudinal wall, a second porous longitudinal wall and a gas and odor absorbing diatomite material housed substantially between the first porous longitudinal wall and the second porous longitudinal wall. In a first modality, the first longitudinal wall s an internal tube 26 and the second longitudinal wall is an external tube 28. The filter cartridge 24 also has two ends. A gas absorbing and odor material 40 is substantially lodged between the concentric layers of the filter cartridge 24, between the inner tube 26 and the outer tube of the filter cartridge 24. In a preferred embodiment, the absorbent material 40 is a material of diatomite, which is described further herein. The inner tube 26 and the outer tube 28 include openings 31 of a suitable size in order to allow gas flow. Preferably, the openings 31 are blinds or mesh openings that allow a greater gas flow through the inner tube 26 and the outer tube 28 of the filter cartridge 24. As such, the filter cartridge 24 is permeable to gas as along its length, radially from the longitudinal external surface thereof and radially from the longitudinal internal surface thereof. Additionally, a core air passage 34 is formed within the inner tube 26 through which the exhaust gas moves when the filter cartridge 24 is used alone or in conjunction with a filtration system 10 such as a syllable. . The filter cartridge 24 of this embodiment is preferably cylindrical in shape. However, the filter cartridge 24 can be of any suitable form. The inner tube 26 and the outer tube 28 of the filter cartridge 24 can be formed from any suitable material. The tubes 26 and 28 are preferably formed from stainless steel, coated steel with aluminum, lead-coated steel, aluminum, polymer-fiberglass material or any combination thereof. A polymer-fiberglass material is a preferable material from which to form the tubes 26, 28 of the filter cartridge 24 since this material is light, strong and heat resistant. Specifically, a polymer-fiberglass filter cartridge can withstand temperatures up to 1300 ° F (705 ° C). As such, the polymer-fiberglass material can easily withstand common thermal discharge which is generally in a range from about 150 ° -200 ° F (66 ° C-94 ° C). However, stainless steel is also a preferable material from which the tubes 26, 28 of the filter cartridge 24 are formed since this material is also strong and heat resistant. In a preferred embodiment as shown in Figure 2, the openings 31 in an inner tube 26 and outer tube 28 of the filter cartridge 24 are louvers of sufficient size to provide the desired permeability and flow of exhaust gas. The blinds preferably vary in size from about one eighth of an inch (1/8 inch) (0.32 cm) to about three eighths of an inch (3/8 inch) (0.95 cm), and more preferably from about one quarter inch (1/4 inch) (0.64 cm) to approximately five sixteenths of an inch (5/16 inch) (0.79 cm). In another preferred embodiment as shown in Figure 6, the inner tube 26 and the outer tube 28 are formed from mesh material so that the openings 31 in the inner tube 26 and the outer tube 28 of the filter cartridge 24 they are mesh openings. The mesh openings are of sufficient size to provide the permeability and flow of exhaust gas. Preferably the mesh apertures range in size from about one eighth inch (1/8 inch) (0.32 cm) to about three eighths of an inch (3/8 inch) (0.95 cm), and more preferably from approximately one quarter of an inch (1/4 inch) (0.64 cm) to about five sixteenths of an inch (5/16 inch) (0.79 cm). The material used to form the mesh openings of the inner tube 26 and the outer tube 28 of the filter cartridge 24 is preferably a stainless steel material ranging in thickness from about 12 gauge to about 16 gauge., any suitable material of any suitable thickness can be employed.

The gas and odor absorbent material housed between the first porous longitudinal wall and the second porous longitudinal wall, such as the inner tube 26 and the outer tube 28, of the filter cartridge 24 is a diatomite material. Datomite is a sedimentary rock composed mainly of fossilized remains of unicellular freshwater plants known as Datomat. The diatomite is approximately 90% silicon dioxide, with the rest of its content being elemental minerals. The diatomite 40 of the present invention absorbs undesirable odors, fumes, liquids and gases from the exhaust gas entering the filter cartridge 24 and the filtration system 10, such as gasoline and diesel gas, so that the gas Outgoing is essentially free of those undesirable odors, fumes, liquids and gases that can contaminate the environment. The dyatomite 40 of the present invention is also strong enough to destroy the smoke that passes through the filter cartridge 24 from a motor. Preferably, the diatomite material of the present invention is in the form of pellets. The diatomite pellets 40 may be of any suitable pellet size. However, diatomite pellets 40 preferably range in size from about one-quarter inch (0.64 cm) to about five eighths of an inch (5/8 inch) (1.59 cm). Specifically, diatomite pellets of the size such as MP 94 and MP 95 are preferred and are in a range of size from half inch (1/2 inch) (1.3 cm) to five eighths of an inch (5/8 inch) ) (1.59 cm). The size of the diatomite pellets 40 preferably corresponds to the size and power of the motor used in conjunction with the filter cartridge 24 of the present invention. For example, 4-cylinder, V6 and V8 engines are used with a cartridge that includes pellets in a quarter-inch (1/4 inch) size range to approximately 1/2 inch (1/2 inch) (1.3 cm), one-quarter inch (1/4 inch) (0.64 cm) to about one-half inch (1.3 cm), and one-quarter inch (1/4 inch) (0.64 cm) ) to approximately five eighths of an inch (5/8 inch) (1.59 cm), respectively. The diatomite pellets are an advantageous absorbent material for use in a filter cartridge 24 in combination with an exhaust gas filtration system 10 of the present invention because the diatomite is light and safe for use since it is not dangerous for humans, animals, plants or water bodies. Additionally, the diatomite pellets 40 have no reaction at temperatures tested above 5000 ° F (2760 ° C). As such, these diatomaceous pellets 40 are fire resistant and help to prevent the first and second porous longitudinal walls, such as tubes 26 and 28, of the filter cartridge 24 from overheating or oxidizing due to the flow of the exhaust through the filter cartridge 24. Additionally, the useful life of the diatomite pellets 40 of the present invention is preferably from about 60,000 miles (96,561 km) to about 100,000 miles (160,934 km) depending on the maintenance and handling conditions of the motor. In order for the diatomite pellets 40 to provide the desired absorption of the undesirable gases from the engine exhaust, the gas flow pressure through the filter cartridge 24 is preferably less than five pounds per square inch (5 psi). (34 kPa). In a preferred embodiment, the gas flow pressure through the filter cartridge 24 of the present invention is 1.5 psi (10 kPa), within the preferred range. The flow pressure of the gas through the filter cartridge 24 is important to maintain a strong gas flow through the diatomite so that brisk contact is obtained to assist the absorption of the contaminants from the gas flow by means of of the diatomite. In an additional preferred embodiment, the filter cartridge 24 can extend the entire length of the protective cover 12 from the gas inlet end structure 14 to the gas outlet end structure 16, as shown in Figure 5. However, in another preferred embodiment , the filter cartridge 24 can extend only part of the length of the protective cover 12, so that the filter cartridge 24 extends from the gas inlet end structure 14, through the protective cover 12, although it stops shortly before reaching the extreme gas outlet structure 16, as shown in Figures 1, 2, 6 and 8. When the filter cartridge 24 does not extend the entire length of the protective cover 12 to the outlet end structure of the gas 16, as shown in Figs. 1, 2, 6 and 8, a retainer plate 30 can be secured to the end of the filter cartridge 24 which is opposite the gas inlet end structure 14 of the protective cover 12 . The retainer plate 30 prevents exhaust gas from exiting through the end of the filter cartridge 24 without passing through the dyatomite pellets 40. The retainer plate 30 is preferably made of a heavy duty heat resistant material such as stainless steel, steel coated with aluminum, coated steel with lead, aluminum, polymer-fiberglass or any combination thereof. The retainer plate 30 may be completely solid or may have a plurality of openings 31 near its outer circumference located adjacent the diatomite pellets 40 between the outer tube 28 and the inner tube 26 of the filter cartridge 24. Those openings 31 they can be blinds or mesh openings such as the openings 31 in the inner tube 26 and the outer tube 28 of the filter cartridge 24, as described above. A complete solid retainer plate 30 prevents exhaust gas from exiting through the end of the filter cartridge 24, thereby forcing the exhaust gas to pass and exit through the inner tube 26, the diatomite pellets 40 and the outer tube 28 of filter cartridge 24, respectively. A retainer plate 30 having openings 31, as described above, can allow the exhaust gas to pass and exit through the outer tube 28 and / or the openings in the retainer plate 30 after passing through the openings. diatomite pellets 40. In another embodiment of the present invention the filter cartridge 24 may also comprise an additional mesh tube 60 operatively located outside and around the outer tube 28, as shown in Fig. 6. The mesh tube Additional 60 provides additional means of filtering the exhaust gas from a motor. The 60 mesh tube also reduces and controls the treated exhaust gas exiting from the outer tube 28. Specifically, the 60 mesh tube reduces and controls the salt exhaust gas so that it remains in the diatomite pellets 40 for a longer than if the 60 mesh tube was not around the outer tube 28. This allows the additional absorption of undesirable odors, fumes, liquids and gases from the exhaust gas so that the outgoing gas is essentially free of those odors, fumes , undesirable liquids and gases that can contaminate the environment. The 60 mesh tube is preferably made from the same mesh material as described above in the embodiment wherein the tubes 26, 28 can be made from a mesh material. The additional mesh tube 60 may also have a mesh end cap 62 which aids and serves the function of the 60 mesh tube. Give preference, the mesh end cap 62 is in a substantially flat arrangement with the retainer plate 30. or adjacent to the retainer plate 30. However, any suitable arrangement can be used. In a preferred embodiment, the additional mesh tube 60 is used in conjunction with the inner tube 26 and the outer tube 28 is also a mesh material, as described before. However, the additional mesh tube 60 can be used in conjunction with the inner tube 26 and the outer tube 28 having louvers, as described above, or any other suitable mode. The filter cartridge 24, as detailed above, can be operatively positioned within the protective cover 12 so that a gas passage 32 is formed between an inner surface of the protective cover 12 and the external surface of the outer tube 28 of the cartridge filter 24. The inner surface of the protective cover 12 can be an alloy layer 20. However, an alloy layer 20 can be a separate layer operatively placed within the protective cover 12. "The alloy layer 20 can be a metal or aluminum alloy material or any other suitable material The alloy layer 20 is preferably provided in a thickness ranging from 16 gauge to 18 gauge. When the alloy plate 20 is a separate layer, the flow passages of gas 22 can be preferentially formed between the inner surface of the protective cover 12 and the alloy layer 20, as shown in Figure 2. These flow passages of gas 22 provide additional means for the exhaust gas to be treated from the filtration system 10. The internal surface of the protective cover 12 of the filtration system 10 may have a protective coating. The protective coating may be a spraying or meshing capable of withstanding the high temperatures associated with the exhaust emission of the internal combustion engine. A preferred mesh is Interam® Brand Mat Mount manufactured by 3M, St. Paul, Minnesota (U.S. Patent No. 3,916,057). The Interam® Brand Mat Mount combines the high temperature capabilities of ceramic fibers with the high thermal expansion characteristics of vermiculite. The maliado can withstand high temperatures, seal against the deviation of the exhaust gas, reduce the crust, that is, the external temperature of the filtration system, and resist thermal shock and vibration. In an embodiment having an alloy layer 20, the gas passage 32 is formed between the alloy layer 20 and the outer surface of the outer tube 28. However, in an embodiment having an additional mesh tube 60, the passage of The gas 32 is formed between the alloy layer 20 or the protective cover 12 and the outer surface of the additional mesh tube 60. The filter cartridge 24, as detailed above, can be secured to the inlet end structure of the gas 14 the protective cover 12 through any suitable means such as, but not limited to, threaded screw flanges, solder or glue. Within the filtration system 10, at least one separating member, for example a bracket, support plate 18 'or rail 18", can preferably be coextensive with an inner surface of the protective cover 12 and an external surface of the filter cartridge 24, 24. The separation member, ie the bracket 18, support plate 18 'or rail 18", preferably holds the filter cartridge 24, 24' in place within the protective cover 12. of the filtration system 10 of the present invention. Said at least one spacing member is preferably a bracket 18, a support plate 18 'or a rail 18", although it may be any suitable spacing member said at least one spacing member may be formed from steel stainless, steel coated with aluminum, lead-coated steel, aluminum, galvanized metal or alloy, polymer-fiberglass or any combination thereof, however, any suitable material can be used to form said at least one separation member , that is, bracket 18, support plate 18 'or rail 18". The protective cover 12, the gas inlet end structure 14 and the gas outlet end structure 16 can be any suitable structure and formed from any suitable material. Nevertheless, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the protective cover 12, the gas inlet end structure 14 and the gas outlet end structure 16 are preferably formed from stainless steel, steel coated with aluminum, coated steel with lead, aluminum, polymer-fiberglass material or any combination thereof. The polymer-fiberglass material is preferred for forming the protective cover 12 and / or the end structures 14 and 16 of the filtration system 10 as this material is light, strong and heat resistant. Specifically, the polymer-fiberglass material can withstand temperatures up to 1300 ° F (705 ° C) and as such, can withstand the common thermal discharge that is usually in the range from about 150 ° -200. ° F (65 ° C-94 ° C). The extreme inlet structure of the gas 14 may be any suitable structure. An embodiment of the extreme gas inlet structure 14 is shown in FIGS. 2, 6 and 8. In this embodiment, the gas inlet end structure 14 preferably has a male coupling end 64 which may or may not be threaded. The male attachable end 64 is adapted to fit the end of an exhaust pipe. The male coupling end 64 can be secured to the exhaust pipe 72 of an internal combustion engine through any suitable means including, but not limited to, a threaded reception, glue or welding. For example, Figure 8 illustrates various securing means in conjunction with one another. Specifically, the inlet end structure of the gas 14 has a threaded connection 13, which is secured to an optional pipe 90 by means of a glue connection 15, which is then secured to an exhaust pipe 72 through appropriate securing means. This type of gas inlet end structure 14 allows exhaust gas to flow from the engine into the filtration system 10 through the gas inlet end structure 14 and into the core air passage 34. It is prevented that the exhaust gas enters directly to any other part of the filtration system 10 before entering the core gas passage 34 by means of an annular seal 66. Additionally, the annular seal 66 closes the entrance end of the gas to the atmosphere. gas, including the end of the gas passage 32, of the filtration system 10. The exhaust gas entering the inlet end structure of the gas 14 flows along a path from the core gas passage 34 outwards to through the inner tube 26, through the diatomite pellets 40 and then through the outer tube 28 of the filter cartridge 24, as shown by means of the arrows in figures 2 and 6. The pellets of diatomite 40 absorb the gases and undesirable fumes from the exhaust gas so that the exhaust gas is free of those gases and fumes when it leaves the outer tube 28 within the gas passage 32 inside the protective cover 12. The gas then flows to the ambient through of the gas outlet end structure 16. In an embodiment having an additional mesh tube 60, the exhaust gas exiting from the outer tube 28 must also pass through the 60 mesh tube before entering the gas passage 32. Specifically, the exhaust gas flows along a path from the engine within the core gas passage 34 out through the inner tube 26, through the diatomite pellets 40, through the outer tube 28 and then through the 60 mesh tube into the gas passage 32, as shown by the arrows in Figure 6. In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the gas inlet structure 14 can be in the shape of a cap that has a flange as threaded screw 70 which engage threaded screw formed at the end of the protective cover 12. This type of extreme gas inlet structure 14 preferably includes means for connecting the filtering system 10 to an exhaust pipe 72 ', shown in dotted lines, of an internal combustion engine by means of a reduced diameter neck 74 and the usual circumferential grooves 76 and a coactuating holding band 78. This embodiment of an end gas inlet structure 14 may also include a annular closing diaphragm 80 which closes towards the atmosphere the inlet end of the gas of the filtering device 10 and closes the ends of the gas passage 32. An opening in this diaphragm 80 coincides with the reduced neck 74 in order to allow the entry of the exhaust gases of the engine to be treated. A separating element 82 carried by the gas inlet end structure 14 acts as a retainer for the filter cartridge 24 in spaced relation towards the gas inlet end structure 14, thereby forming a gas distribution plenum 83 on the which, as shown by the arrows in Figure 5, distributes the incoming exhaust gas over the end of the filter cartridge 24 and into the inlet ends of the gas passage 32 which can be seen to be opened within the plenum. The exhaust gas then flows along a path from the gas passage 32 inward through the outer tube 28, through the dyatomite pellets 40 and then through the inner tube 26 of the filter cartridge 24 into the interior. of the core gas passage 34, as shown by means of the arrows in Figure 5. The diatomite pellets 40 absorb undesirable gases, fumes and the like from the exhaust gas so that the gas escapes. e is free of those undesirable gases, fumes and the like when the gas leaves the inner tube 26 within the gas passage of the core 34 of the filter cartridge 24. The gas then flows into the environment through the extreme gas outlet structure 16. A disk 84 may be operatively located in the mode of the inlet end structure of the gas 14 shown in Fig. 5 so as to act to prevent the incoming exhaust gases from flowing directly through the gas passage of the core 34 of the filter cartridge 24 of the filtration system 10 without passing through the diatomite pellets 40. The outlet end structure of the gas 16 can be any suitable structure. A preferred embodiment of a gas outlet end structure 16 is shown in Figures 2, 6 and 8. This outlet end structure of the gas 16 may be an opening at the protruding end of the protective cover 12. This extreme outlet structure of the gas 16 could also be an elongated neck projecting outwardly or channel structure opening at the protruding end of the protective cover 12. As shown in Figures 2, 6 and 8, this type of exhaust end structure of the Gas 16 allows the filtered exhaust gas to flow from the gas passage 32 to the environment. This type of gas outlet end structure 16 is preferably used in conjunction with a filter cartridge 24 that does not extend all along the length of the protective cover 12 and with a filter cartridge 24 having a retainer plate 30, as described before. As shown in Figure 5, another preferred embodiment of the gas outlet end structure 16 may also be in the form of a lid with threaded tabs 46 which coact with threads on the protruding end of the protective cover 12. An annular diaphragm 48 closes this end of the protective cover 12 towards the atmosphere with an opening 50 for discharging the exhaust gas that has been treated. In this preferred embodiment, the opening 50 may preferably include a screen 52 to prevent the loss of powdery material from the filter cartridge 24 of the filtration system 10. A threaded neck 54 may extend inwardly from the outlet end structure of the filter. gas 16 and may have a flange which is secured to the diaphragm 48. This end gas outlet structure 16 of the filter cartridge 24 may also be closed by means of a diaphragm 56 which carries an inwardly projecting neck 58 in which female screw threads are formed which engage with those on the neck 54. As shown in figure 5, this type of exhaust end structure of the gas 16 allows the filtered exhaust gas to flow from the gas passage of the core 34 to the environment. This type of gas outlet end structure 16 is preferably used in conjunction with a filter cartridge 24 which extends the entire length of the protective cover 12. Additionally, it will be seen that when the efficiency of the filter action of the filter cartridge 24 is reduced due to carbon fouling and / or poisoning, by unscrewing this end gas outlet structure 16, the used filter cartridge 24 can be removed and a new filter cartridge 24 inserted into the filter system 10. As shown in Figure 5, the inlet end structure of the gas 14 between the disk 84 and the outer surface of the filtering device can be closed by means of a porous, annular sheet of glass fiber paper that allows free flow of the gases within the end of the filter cartridge 24 while restricting the escape of the powdery adsorbent material. If desired, a thin perforated metal foil layer (not shown) can form the outer cylindrical surface of the filter cartridge 24, where a crust of this nature may be advisable to protect the filter cartridge 24 during shipping and handling and before insertion into the filtration system 10. As shown in Figs. 9-12, in another preferred embodiment, the filter cartridge 24 'of the present invention has an elongated shape which is preferably substantially rectangular and the first The longitudinal porous wall of the filter cartridge 24 'is a first rectangular wall 26' and the second porous longitudinal wall of the filter cartridge 24 'is a second rectangular wall 28'. These walls 26 'and 28' are in alignment substantially separated one from the other (preferably parallel to each other) and are longitudinal side walls of the filter cartridge 24 '. The rectangular side walls 26 'and 28' include openings 31 of a suitable size in order to allow adequate gas flow. Preferably, the openings 31 are blinds or mesh openings that allow a greater flow of gas through the walls 26 ', 28' in order to provide treatment during the movement of an exhaust gas flow through the cartridge. 24 'filter. The other walls, i.e. upper wall 100, lower wall 102 and two end walls 104, 106 of the filter cartridge 24 'of this modality can be porous or non-porous. The diatomite material 40 is substantially lodged between the walls 26 ', 28', 100, 102, 104, 106 of the filter cartridge 24 '. The walls 26 ', 28', 100, 102, 104, 106 of this embodiment can be formed from any suitable material such as, but not limited to, stainless steel, steel coated with aluminum, steel coated with lead, aluminum, metal alloy, galvanized metal alloy, polymer-fiberglass material or any combination thereof. In a preferred embodiment shown in Figures 9 and 10, the openings 31 in the first rectangular side wall 26 'and the second rectangular side wall 28' of the filter cartridge 24 'are blinds of a size sufficient for the desired permeability and flow of the exhaust gas. Preferably the blinds range in size from about one eighth of an inch (1/8 inch) (0.32 cm) to about three eighths of an inch (3/8 inch) (0.95 cm), and more preferably from about one quarter inch (1/4 inch) (0.64 cm) to approximately five sixteenths of an inch (5/16 inch) (0.79 cm). The first rectangular side wall 26 'and the second rectangular side wall 28' can be formed from a mesh material so that the openings 31 therein are mesh openings. The mesh openings are of sufficient size to provide the desired permeability and flow of the exhaust gas. Preferably, the mesh openings vary in size from about one eighth of an inch (1/8 inch) to about three eighths of an inch (3/8 inch) (0.95 cm), and more preferably from about one quarter of an inch (1/4 inch) (0-64 cm) to about five sixteenths of an inch (5/16 of an inch) (0.79 cm). The material used to form the mesh openings of the rectangular side walls 26 ', 28' of the filter cartridge is preferably stainless steel, which varies in thickness from about 12 gauge to about 20 gauge. However, it can be employed any suitable material of any appropriate thickness. The gas and odor absorbing material 40 housed between the first rectangular side wall 26 'and the second rectangular side wall 28' of the filter cartridge of this embodiment is a diatomite material, as described above. The filter cartridge 24 'of this embodiment can be secured inside the protective cover 12 by means of at least one separating member such as a rail 18. "Said at least one rail 18" is preferably an L-shaped rail. wherein a first section of the rail 18"is secured to the filter cartridge 24 'and a second section of the rail 18" is secured to the inner surface of the protective cover 12. Preferably, the first section of a first rail 18"is secured to an upper edge of the first rectangular side wall 26 ', a first section of a second rail 18"is secured to a lower end of the first rectangular side wall 26', a first section of a third rail 18" is secured to an upper edge of the second rectangular side wall 28 'and a first section of a fourth rail 18' is secured to a lower edge of the second rectangular side wall 28 'The second section of each of the first, second, third and fourthrails 18"is secured to the inner surface of the protective cover 12, as shown in figures 1 1 and 12. However, any suitable spacing member can be used to secure the filter cartridge 24 'inside the cover protective 12. As shown in Figure 9, the filter cartridge 24 'of this embodiment can be secured within the protective cover 12 so that the filter cartridge 24' is positioned along the entire length of the cover protective 12 in a substantially central region. This filter cartridge arrangement is preferably used with a protective cover 12 having the gas inlet end structure 14 and the gas outlet end structure 16 at opposite ends of the protective cover 12. Accordingly, the exhaust gas flows from an engine into the filtration system 10 through the gas inlet end structure 14 and into the air passage 108. The exhaust gas flows from the air passage 1 '8 through the the first rectangular wall 26 ', through the dimatomic pellets 40 and then through the second rectangular side wall 28' of the filter cartridge 24 ', as shown by the arrows in Figure 9. The pellets of diatomite 40 absorb the undesirable gases and fumes from the exhaust gas so that the exhaust gas is free or substantially free of those gases and fumes when it leaves the second rectangular side wall 28 'inside the air passage 1 10 inside the protective cover 12. The gas then flows into the environment through the gas outlet end structure 16. While preferred embodiments have been described above, any protective cover 12, gas inlet end structure 14 and The gas outlet end structure 16 can be used in conjunction with the first cartridge 24, 24 'of the present invention. The novel form of the filter cartridge 24, 24"coacting with the filtration system 10 of the present invention is one in which the absorbent diatomite pellets 40 are positioned in such a manner within the first and second porous longitudinal walls, such as the tubes 26 and 28 and the rectangular side walls 26 'and 28', of the filter cartridge 24, 24 'that the filter cartridge 24, 24' is gas permeable longitudinally from the gas inlet end, or from the plenum 83 if it is used in one embodiment, radially through the concentric tubes, or through the rectangular walls Figure 7 shows an illustrative positioning of the filtration system 10 of the present invention for a downstream exhaust pipe of an engine of conventional internal combustion (not shown). Any suitable securing means can be used to secure the filtration system 10 to an exhaust pipe, including but not limited to threaded connection, glue or welding. The filter cartridge 24, 24 'can be processed and sold separately for inclusion in filtration systems, for example structured silencers for receiving the filter cartridge 24, 24'. When the useful life of the filter cartridge 24, 24 'is exhausted, the filter cartridge 24, 24' is removed and can be re-assembled for use or discarded and replaced with a new filter cartridge 24, 24 '. It is not intended that the illustrative embodiments described herein be exhaustive or to unnecessarily limit the scope of the invention. The illustrative modalities were selected and described in order to exemplify the principles of the present invention so that others skilled in the art can practice the invention. As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, various modifications may be made within the scope of the foregoing description. Such modifications that are within the skill of one skilled in the art form part of the present invention and are encompassed by the appended claims.

Claims (39)

1. A filter cartridge, comprising: a first longitudinal wall having a plurality of gas permeable openings, and a second longitudinal wall having a plurality of gas permeable openings, wherein the first longitudinal wall is operatively placed in substantial separate alignment with the second longitudinal wall; and a diatomite material operatively present between the first longitudinal wall and the second longitudinal wall.

2. An exhaust gas filtration system comprising: a protective cover; a filter cartridge operatively secured within the protective cover, so that the protective cover houses the filter cartridge; and a diatomite material operatively present in the filter cartridge.

3. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 2, characterized in that the filter cartridge comprises: a first longitudinal wall having a plurality of gas permeable openings, and a second longitudinal wall having a plurality of openings gas permeable, wherein the first longitudinal wall is operatively placed in substantial separate alignment with the second longitudinal wall; and a diatomite material operatively present between the first longitudinal wall and the second longitudinal wall.

4. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 1, characterized in that the diatomite material is in pellet form.

5. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 2, characterized in that the diatomite material is in pellet form.

6. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 3, characterized in that the diatomite material is in pellet form.

7. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of gas permeable openings in each of the first longitudinal wall and the second longitudinal wall are blinds.

8. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 3, characterized in that the plurality of gas permeable openings in each of the first longitudinal wall and the second longitudinal wall are blinds.

The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of gas permeable openings in each of the first longitudinal wall and the second longitudinal wall are mesh openings.

10. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 3, characterized in that the plurality of gas permeable openings in each of the first longitudinal wall and the second longitudinal wall are mesh openings. eleven .

The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 6, characterized in that the plurality of gas permeable openings in each of the first longitudinal wall and the second longitudinal wall or blinds.

12. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 6, characterized in that the plurality of gas permeable openings in each of the first longitudinal wall and the second longitudinal wall are mesh openings.

The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 4, characterized in that the pellets are of a size ranging from about% inch (0.64 cm) to about 5/8 inch (1.59 cm).

14. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 5, characterized in that the pellets are of a size ranging from about% inch (0.64 cm) to about 5/8 inch (1.59 cm). 5.

The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 6, characterized in that the pellets are of a size ranging from about% inch (0.64 cm) to about 5/8 inch (1.59 cm).

16. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 1, characterized in that the gas permeable openings in each of the first longitudinal wall and the second longitudinal wall range in size from about 1/8 inch (0.32 cm) to about 3/8 inch (0.95 cm).

17. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 3, characterized in that the gas permeable openings in each of the first longitudinal wall and the second longitudinal wall vary in size from about 1/8 inch (0.32 cm). ) to approximately 3/8 of an inch (0.95 cm).

The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 7, characterized in that the blinds range in size from about 1/8 inch to about 3/8 inch. 9.

The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 8, characterized in that the blinds range in size from about 1/8 inch to about 3/8 inch.

20. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 1, characterized in that the blinds range in size from about 1/8 inch to about 3/8 inch. twenty-one .

The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 9, characterized in that the mesh openings vary in size from about 1/8 of. inch (0.32 cm) to approximately 3/8 of an inch (0.95 cm).

22. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 10, characterized in that the mesh openings range in size from about 1/8 inch to about 3/8 inch.

23. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 12, characterized in that the mesh openings vary in size from about 1/8 inch to about 3/8 inch.

24. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 1, characterized in that the first longitudinal wall and the second longitudinal wall are made of stainless steel, steel coated with aluminum, steel coated with lead, aluminum, metal alloy, alloy galvanized metal, polymer-fiberglass, or a combination thereof.

25. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 3, characterized in that the first longitudinal wall and the second longitudinal wall are made of stainless steel, steel coated with aluminum, steel coated with lead, aluminum, metal alloy, alloy galvanized metal, polymer-fiberglass, or a combination thereof.

26. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 1, further comprising a second combined end for the first longitudinal wall and the second longitudinal wall, and a retainer operatively secured to said second end.

27. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 3, further comprising a second combined end for the first longitudinal wall and the second longitudinal wall, and a retainer operatively secured to said second end.

The filter cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising: a mesh tube operatively positioned outside of and around the first longitudinal wall and the second longitudinal wall, the mesh tube having a plurality of mesh openings . .

29. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 3, further comprising: a mesh tube operatively positioned outside of and around the first longitudinal wall and the second longitudinal wall, the mesh tube having a plurality of mesh openings.

30. The filter cartridge according to claim 28, characterized in that the alia tube is made from stainless steel, coated steel with aluminum, lead-coated steel, aluminum, metallic alloy, galvanized metal alloy, polymer-fiberglass, or a combination thereof, and where the mesh tube varies in thickness from approximately 12 gauge to approximately 16 gauge.

31. The filter cartridge according to claim 29, characterized in that the malia tube is made from stainless steel, steel coated with aluminum, lead-coated steel, aluminum, metal alloy, galvanized metal alloy, polymer-fiberglass, or a combination thereof, and wherein the mesh tube varies in thickness from approximately 12 gauge to approximately 16 gauge.

32. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 2 or 3. , characterized in that the protective cover is elongated and has an end structure of the gas inlet and an end structure of the gas outlet, and the cart A filter is operatively connected to the extreme structure of the gas inlet.

33. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 32, characterized in that the protective cover is made from stainless steel, steel coated with aluminum, steel coated with lead, aluminum, metallic alloy, galvanized metal alloy, polymer -glass fiber, or a combination thereof.

34. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 32, characterized in that the gas inlet end structure is operatively connected to an exhaust pipe which in turn is connected to an internal combustion engine.

35. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 3, characterized in that the protective cover is elongated and. it has an extreme gas inlet structure and an end gas outlet structure, wherein the first cartridge is operatively connected to or near the gas inlet end structure, wherein the gas inlet end structure is operatively connected to a gas outlet structure. exhaust pipe which in turn is connected to an internal combustion engine, and wherein a flow of exhaust gas from the engine enters through the extreme gas inlet structure and through the openings in the first longitudinal wall, through the diatomite material and through the openings in the second longitudinal wall and out through the extreme gas outlet structure.

36. The filter cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that the filter cartridge has a substantially rectangular shape.

37. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 3, characterized in that the filter cartridge has a substantially rectangular shape.

38. The filter cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that the filter cartridge has a substantially tubular shape.

39. The exhaust gas filtration system according to claim 3, characterized in that the filter cartridge has a substantially tubular shape.