WO2006094065A2 - Improved features for liquid filter arrangements; resulting filter components and assemblies; and, methods - Google Patents

Abstract

Liquid filter arrangements are disclosed. Certain filter cartridges for such arrangements are described as having two axially spaced seal arrangements on an end cap. Useable wiper blade seal arrangements and projection/receiver seal arrangements are described. Methods of assembly and use are also described. Also, advantageous filter features, useable with alternate seal arrangements are described.

Description

IMPROVED FEATURES FOR LIOUID FILTER ARRANGEMENTS; RESULTING FILTER COMPONENTS AND ASSEMBLIES; AND,

METHODS

This application is being filed on 28 February 2006, as a PCT

International Patent application in the name of Donaldson Company, Inc., a U.S. national corporation, applicant for the designation of all countries except the US, and Thomas A. Boeckermann, Dennis Michael Deedrich, Randall William Heibenthal, and David P. Welzant, all citizens of the US, applicants for the designation of the US only, and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/657,568, filed March 1, 2005.

Technical Field

The disclosure generally concerns liquid filters. In particular, the disclosure relates to improved features in such liquid filters. The features relate to: (a) arrangements at an interface between the filter cartridge component and a remainder of the filter assembly; and, (b) preferred structures for the filter component.

Background

Liquid filters employed in a variety of applications including fuel systems, fuel/water separators, hydraulic systems and engine lubrication systems. Such filter assemblies generally include a filter cartridge within a can or a housing, hi general, liquid filter arrangements are provided in either a spin-on form or a bowl/cartridge form. In a spin-on form, the filter cartridge is received within a can from which it is not normally removed, during servicing. Rather the entire can is spun onto or attached to a filter head or other componentry and is replaced in its entirety during servicing. Examples of such arrangements are described in U.S. 4,369,113; 4,834,885; 5,104,537; 5,895,574; and, 6,345,721; the complete disclosures of these five references being incorporated herein by reference, hi bowl/cartridge arrangements, the filter cartridge is a serviceable component, received within a housing bowl or can. The housing bowl or can is then attached to a filter head, during operation. Examples of bowl/cartridge filter arrangements are described for example in U.S. 6,752,924; and, 6,322,697; each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Continued improvements in liquid filter arrangements are desired.

Summary of the Disclosure

The present disclosure concerns features and techniques useable in liquid filter arrangements. The features and techniques can be used together to provide for an advantageous liquid filter arrangement. However not all the features and techniques described herein need to be used, for a liquid filter arrangement to obtain some advantage according to the present disclosure.

Certain of the techniques and features described, relate to the interface between a liquid filter cartridge, and a filter head of a liquid filter arrangement. These features concern provision of a seal or engagement arrangement, between the two parts. Particular preferred seal arrangements provided on an end cap ofthe liquid filter cartridge, are described. The arrangements generally relate to interaction at two axially spaced locations, to advantage. In the embodiment shown, at least one ofthe points of interaction is provided by a flexible blade or lip seal on the filter cartridge. The second ofthe interaction arrangements concerns a first member (projection or receiver) of a projection/receiver arrangement on the filter cartridge, and a second member

(receiver or projection) of a projection/receiver arrangement on the liquid filter head. These features can be implemented in either a bowl/cartridge or spin-on form.

Other features according to the present disclosure relate to the overall features ofthe liquid filter cartridge relating to: preferred, coreless, constructions; and, a preferred utilization of an outside roving around the filter cartridge. The typical preferred filter cartridge utilizing these components, is constructed for in-to- out flow, during filtering.

Brief Description of the Drawings Fig. 1 is a schematic cross-section view first embodiment of a filter assembly according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 2 is an enlarged fragmentary view of a portion of Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is an enlarged view of a filter cartridge component ofthe assembly of Fig. 1. Fig. 4 is an enlarged fragmentary view of a portion of Fig. 3. Fig. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a filter assembly according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 6 is an enlarged fragmentary view of a portion of Fig. 5. Fig. 7 is an enlarged view of a filter cartridge component of the assembly of Fig. 5.

Fig. 8 is an enlarged fragmentary view of a portion of Fig. 7. Fig. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of a filter assembly according to the present disclosure. Fig. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of a filter cartridge according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 11 is a schematic depiction of a spin-on liquid filter arrangement shown engaged with a liquid filter head in accord with principles of the present disclosure. Fig. 12 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the spin-on cartridge for the assembly of Fig. 11.

Fig. 13 is a top perspective view of the spin-on cartridge of Fig. 12. Fig. 14 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of a fuel/water separator including a filter cartridge including features according to the present disclosure.

Detailed Description I. The Arrangement of Figs. 1-4. A. General Assembly Features and Operation - Fig. 1.

The reference numeral 1, Fig. 1, generally indicates a liquid filter assembly according to the present disclosure. The depiction of Fig. 1 is schematic, but indicates features and improvements of concern herein.

Referring to Fig. 1, the liquid filter assembly 1 includes an inlet cover

4, a bowl or housing bottom 5, and an internally received filter cartridge 6. The filter assembly 1 depicted, as a result, is a bowl/cartridge assembly in which the filter cartridge 6 is a service part, positioned in an interior 5a of the housing or bowl

5. By the term "service part" it is meant that the cartridge 6 is removed from the housing 5 and replaced, in normal use. During servicing, the housing or bowl 5 is removed from the cover piece 4 and the cartridge 6 is removed from interior 5 a and is replaced with a new or refurbished cartridge 6. The housing or bowl 5 would then be replaced on the cover piece 4.

The cover piece 4 would typically comprise a portion of a filter head or related assembly that would remain mounted on equipment, during servicing. It is noted that some of the principles herein can be applied in systems that are not bowl/cartridge, and in which the cartridge 6 is permanently received within the associated housing, as opposed to being a serviceable part. This is described below with respect to Figs. 11-13.

Referring still to Fig. 1, the cover 4 is generally configured to: provide for an inlet flow of liquid to be filtered, into the interior 5a of the housing 5; and, to receive filtered liquid from the interior 5a, to pass it back into a liquid circulation system of the equipment involved. Referring to Fig. 1, at 10 a central flow conduit is shown. For the particular assembly, conduit 10 is an inlet flow conduit 11 through post 12 to receive liquid to be filtered from the circulation loop, directing same into interior 6a of cartridge 6.

This unfiltered liquid is then filtered by passage through filter media 15 of cartridge 6, into annular space 18. The filtered liquid would then flow from annular space 18 around the filter cartridge 6 and out through one or more exit ports in region 20 of cover piece 4. An example exit port is shown at 20a. Herein, conduit 10 will sometimes be referred to as a central flow conduit, due to its positioning. Ports 20a will sometimes be referred to as a second flow conduit spaced radially from the first, central, flow conduit.

Typically, within volume 5a, cartridge 6 is sealed to post 12, to prevent undesired flow of unfiltered liquid between region 6a and annulus 18, without passage through media 15 of filter cartridge 6. The filter cartridge 6 is sealed to post 12, typically and preferably in one of the manners described below. Of course in some instances bypass flow arrangements can be provided, to allow for a controlled bypass flow around media 15, should the filter cartridge 6 become unacceptably included. For the particular example shown schematically in Fig. 1, no bypass arrangement is depicted, although one could be used.

Still referring to Fig. 1, it is noted that housing or bowl 5 is secured to cover piece 4 by a threaded arrangement 22. This provides for convenient service access, since bowl 5 would simply be unthreaded from cover piece 4, to provide service access to interior 5a and cartridge 6. 0-ring 22a provides for a seal between bowl 5 and cover piece 4.

In general terms, the cartridge 6 comprises media 15, typically arranged in a pleated form 23. The media 15 is generally configured in a tubular shape, around open central volume 6a. The media 15 has opposite ends 15 a, 15b and is positioned in extension between opposite end caps 25, 26. The media 15 can be potted to the opposite end caps 25, 26 with sealant; or, the end caps 25, 26 can be molded in place on media ends 15a, 15b respectively or be thermally bonded in place. The media 15 defines an inner edge 15c and an outer edge 15d. The inner edge 15c, for pleated media 23, would comprise inner pleat tips 23 a; and, the outer edge 15d for pleated media 23 would comprise outer pleat tips 23d. A useable material for end cap 25, 26 is nylon, although alternatives are possible.

Although alternatives are possible, as discussed below, for the arrangement 1 shown in Fig. 1, end cap 26 is a closed end cap, meaning it has no apertures therethrough in flow communication with region 6a. End cap 25, on the other hand, is an open end cap, defining central opening 28, to allow flow between region 6a and conduit 10. In the example of Fig. 1, the flow direction of unfiltered liquid, again, is from conduit 10 toward region 6a and then through media 15 into annulus 18, although alternatives are possible. A flow pattern of unfiltered liquid into central region 6a, then through media 15, and into annulus 18, is generally referred to herein as a "in-to-out" flow pattern.

It is noted that many of the principles described herein can be applied in arrangements that are configured for "out-to-in" flow.

For the particular cartridge 6 depicted, end cap 26 is provided with an outwardly directed skirt 30. Skirt 30 can be configured to help center the cartridge 6 in the housing 5.

Certain unique features and combinations of features are described herein, in the next section.

B. Selected Advantageous Features of the Embodiment of Figs. 1-4. 1. Cover Piece Engagement Features at End Cap 25.

The assembly 1 of Fig. 1, includes an advantageous arrangement for engagement with the cover piece 4. With respect to this, attention is directed to Fig.

2. In Fig. 2, an enlarged fragmentary portion of Fig. 1 is depicted. Referring to Fig. 2, end cap 25 includes, at inner aperture 28, engagement arrangement 39, for engagement with the post 12. The engagement arrangement 39 includes: a first member 41 of a projection/receiver arrangement 40; and, a second post engagement member 44. In general terms, the projection/receiver arrangement 40 comprises: a projection (for example projection 41a) on a first one of the end cap 25 and post 12; and, a receiver on a second one of the end cap 25 and post 12, for mechanical interference engagement. Typically and preferably the projection member is positioned on the end cap 25 and the receiver member is positioned, for example as a groove, on the post 12. Thus, although alternatives are possible, for the particular arrangement shown, the first member 41 of the projection/receiver arrangement 40 comprises a projection 41a; and, the second member 42 of the projection/receiver arrangement 40 comprises a receiver groove 42a, sized and positioned to receive the projection member 41a during installation of the cartridge 6 over post 12.

For the assembly 1 depicted, the second post engagement member 44 comprises a seal member 44a on the end cap 25, and surface 45 comprises an annular surface portion 45a of post 12, engaged by seal member 44a for sealing. This is described in further detail below. More specifically and referring to Figs. 3 and 4, for the end cap 25 depicted, the first member 41 (of a projection/receiver arrangement) on the end cap 25 for engagement with the post 40, comprises a circumferential projection 41b around aperture 28. The particular circumferential projection 41b depicted, comprises a bead or bump 41c. The projection 41b is configured to engage a receiving groove 42a, at region 42, Fig. 2. Preferably, projection 41b is integral with a remainder of end cap 25, being molded at the same time as the remainder of end cap 25. Also, although alternatives are possible, typically projection 41b is positioned: (a) adjacent end 15a of media 15; and, (b) with the second post engagement member 44 positioned between projection 41b and end cap 26, Fig. 1. The projection 41b and groove 42a are configured for a mechanical interference fit during assembly, i.e., when cartridge 6 is pushed over post 12. Typically the projection 41b is semi-circular in cross-sectional shape, and is sized to form a fluid seal in engagement with groove 42a. Preferred materials for the end cap 25, to provide for this are described below. As an example: (a) a useable radius for the projection 41a, is a 1.5 mm radius for a snap-fit to a groove on the post 12;

(b); interference between the projection 41a and post 12 is 0.5 mm per side; and, (c) the interference between the projection 41a and groove diameter is 0.15 mm per side. From this example, general principles applicable in a variety of alternate configurations for alternate applications, can be understood.

The second post engagement member 44 preferably comprises a flexible lip 44a extending at an acute, oblique angle A (Fig. 4) with respect to the media inner edge 15c. The acute angle is usually at least 30°, typically within the range of 35° to 60°, inclusive, and often within the range of 35° to 50°, inclusive, for example 42°. Typically, especially when an in-to-out flow is used, the lip 44a extends downwardly and radially inwardly (i.e., toward opposite end cap 26) from end portion 25a of end cap 25. As a result, liquid pressure within region 6a will press lip 44a into position.

The lip 44a configured to press against region 45 in use. Typically region 45 extends at an acute angle B, Fig. 2, with respect to media edge 15c that is shaper than the acute angle A of the lip, typically 1° to 5° sharper. For the example shown, angle B, Fig. 2, is 40°. Region 45 will sometimes be referred to as an outside funnel shaped region, or by similar terms, due to its truncated conical (or frusto conical) shape. An alternate way to define angles A and B is acute angle with respect to a cylinder of media extending parallel to a central longitudinal access of the cartridge 6.

The narrow angle B of region 45, post 12, relative to the angle A of the flexible lip 44a, will ensure that when the cartridge 6 is positioned on post 12, lip 44a will be pressed against region 45 of post 12, forming a seal thereat. Again, the liquid pressure at region 6a will tend to further push lip 44a against region 45, further enhancing the seal.

As an example: (a) the length of the seal blade 44 could be made about 5.2 mm; (b) the TD of the blade 44 about 48 mm; and, (c) the OD of the sealing portion 45 where engagement occurs, about 48.3 mm, creating a 0.3 mm interference. Of course alternate sizes could be used, for alternate applications.

Typically, an interference of at least 0.1 mm, and typically 0.15 - 0.5 mm, can be used. A typical length for the lip 44a would be 3-8 mm, typically 4.5 - 6.5 mm, although alternatives are possible.

Again, herein surface portion 45, including region 45 a, will sometimes be referred to as an oblique surface portion or outside funnel shaped portion, of post 12.

Advantages result from the arrangement shown. For example the projection/receiver arrangement 40 provides for a proper positioning of the filter cartridge 6 on the stem 12, for appropriate sealing and positioning for operation.

Secondly, two axially spaced seal arrangements are provided, between the cartridge 6 and the projection 12, these are the: lip seal arrangement 44a and the projection/receiver arrangement 40. The presence of two axially spaced seals helps further ensure no leakage between volume 6a and volume 18. The term "axially spaced" used in this and related context, is meant to refer to a spacing along the length of the cartridge 106, between end caps 25 and 26. Also, when liquid flow is in the direction described, i.e., in-to-out, liquid pressure within region 6a actually presses blade 44 against region 45 of post 12, enhancing sealing. Thus as the filter loads and the pressure differential increases across the filter, sealing pressure also increases.

Finally, lip seal arrangement 44a will help wipe the post 12 clean, as the cartridge 6 is removed from connection with the post 12.

2. Other Features of End Cap 25.

In Fig. 3 filter cartridge 6 is shown in cross-section, separated from a remainder of the housing assembly 1, and in Fig. 4 an enlarged fragmentary view of end cap 25 is shown.

Referring to Fig. 3, it is noted that end cap 25 includes optional projection member 50 thereon, spaced radially around end region 25a. Each optional projection member 50 includes an outer peripheral projection portion 51 and an axially directed projection portion 52, the axially directed projection portion 52 extending away from media 15.

Spaced peripheral portions 50 help ensure that the cartridge 6 is centered within the housing 5, Fig. 1, during assembly and provide for fluid flow paths around and across the end cap 25. Typically at least four (4) projections 50 are used, usually 4-8 such projections. 3. Other Cartridge Features.

Referring still to Fig. 3, it is noted that the filter cartridge 6 includes certain preferred features for operation. For the example shown, the media 15 comprises pleated media 23 having inner pleat tips 23a and outer pleat tips 23d. The preferred filter cartridge 6 includes no inner liner in region 6a, supporting the inner pleat tips 23a. hi many filter arrangements, a porous liner such as an expanded metal liner or perforated tube is provided at this location. Such a liner is avoided to advantage with respect to filter cartridge 6.

One advantage, is that it has been found that the absence of a perforated cartridge at this location, when filtering flow is "in-to-out," leads to better performance with respect to distribution of contaminant load in the filter media, and thus lifetime of use or restriction increase. Secondly, the avoidance of a tube at this location facilitates manufacture and disposal.

Herein, a filter cartridge such as cartridge 6, which includes in region 6a, no porous tube, referred to as "inner core free," "coreless," "inner liner free" or by similar terms.

It is also noted that the assembly 1 does not include a structure providing for an inner core that is not attached to the cartridge 6. Such an assembly will sometimes be referred to herein as an "inner core free," "coreless," or "inner liner free" assembly.

It is also noted that filter cartridge 6 includes a roving 60 wound around the outside of the pleat tips 23d. The roving 60 is generally coiled, in extension between opposite end regions 61, 62. The roving typically comprises a polymeric fiber/resin combination. Preferably the resin in a UV cure resin. The roving is typically wound in place and then activated with a UV energy source, to cure the polymer leaving the roving in place, to strengthen the cartridge 6 and provide integrity to the media 15, along the outer pleat tips 23d. For "in-to-out" flow filter cartridges, such as cartridge 6, the roving 60 supports the media 15 against damage from outwardly directed distortion, during use. A typical roving is provided with a width (dimension X, Fig. 3) within the range of 2 mm to 12 mm. The rovings are generally provided with an axial spacing on the order of 2 mm - 12 mm. A typical pleat population, for inner pleat tips 15c, would be on the order of 8-12 pleats/inch (3-5/cm). Typical media thickness would be within the range of 0.65 mm - 1.5 mm, with a typical tolerance of± 0.15 mm.

The media 15 maybe corrugated or otherwise embossed, to facilitate pleat spacing and liquid flow. Also, pleat tip folding techniques can be used to facilitate pleat spacing and liquid flow.

The particular choice of embossing, corrugation and pleat tip modification, is a matter of choice based in part upon the environment of use and preferred operating specifications. It is noted that the choice should be made with an understanding that for the particular example arrangement shown in Fig. 1, liquid flow during filtering occurs from the interior 6a to the exterior 18.

Of course many of the features described with respect to the embodiment of Figs. 1-4, could be applied in an arrangement configured for flow from exterior 18 to interior 6a, during filtering.

II. The Arrangement of Figs. 5-8.

A. General Assembly Features and Operation - Fig. 5.

The reference numeral 101, Fig. 5, generally indicates a second embodiment of a liquid filter assembly according to the present disclosure. The assembly 101 operates similarly to liquid filter assembly 1, except for detail as described herein. It is noted that assembly 101 can comprise the same cover piece 4 and housing or bowl 5. The remaining features of cover piece 4 and bowl 5, can be generally as described above in connection with cover 4 and bowl 5 for Fig. 1. These features are numbered accordingly.

Assembly 101 is configured for positioning therein of cartridge 106. Cartridge 106 defines and surrounds internal region 106a. Normal filtering operation for the assembly 101 depicted, would be similar to assembly 1, Fig. 1, with liquid flow through inlet tube 111 into region 106a, through media 15 into annular region 18 then out through outlet 20a. Thus, cartridge 106 is configured for in-to-out flow, during filtering, although certain of the features can be adapted for "out-to-in" flow.

For a typical arrangement, the media 15 (defining ends 15 a, 15b and interior edge 15c and exterior edge 15d) would comprise a pleated media 23, with outer pleat tips 23 and inner pleat tips 23a. The media 15 is positioned in extension between open end cap 125 and closed end cap 126. End cap 126 may be the same as end cap 26, Fig. 1, with similar features, if desired.

End cap 125 includes end cap 125 a and peripherally positioned projections 150. Projections 150 may be the same as similar features described previously for the embodiment of Figs. 1-4.

It is noted that filter cartridge 106 is depicted without a center tube or liner, and with a roving 130 around the exterior pleat tips 15d, analogously to Fig. 1.

The differences between the embodiment of Figs. 5-8, and the embodiment of Figs. 1-4, relate to the specific structure or a mechanism of engagement between the filter cartridge 106 and the cover 4.

Referring to Fig. 6, post 112 includes outer oblique seal surface 145 and outer, lower, protrusion 135. End cap 125 includes lip seal 144 positioned to engage seal surface 145. Seal 144 and surface 145, with respect to this engagement, can be similar to seal 44 and surface 45 (specifically 45a) discussed above. The assembly 101 also includes projection/receiver arrangement 160 providing for mechanical interference interlock. In this example, a first member of the projection/receiver arrangement 160 is a projection 161 positioned on the cartridge 106, and a second member is a receiver 162 is positioned on the post, analogously to Fig. 1. The difference is that projection member 161 comprises a flexible lip 161a, as opposed to a rigid bead. Lip 161a is sized so that tip 161b will project into groove or receiver 162, during engagement between the cartridge 106 and the post 112.

It is noted that for the particular arrangement 101, the lip seal member 144 is positioned closer to end 15a of the media 15 than is projection 161, an opposite orientation from the embodiment of Fig. 1.

Again, lip seal 144 and surface 145 can be generally as described above for the embodiment of Fig. 1, except oriented where appropriate for the particular assembly of Fig. 6. The following description provides for an example, from which general application of the principles and alternate configurations can be derived. As an example: blade 144 could be configured at 5.2 mm long, and extend at a 42° angle downwardly, i.e., at an acute angle A (Fig. 8) of 42° relative to media inner edge 15 c; the corresponding mating surface 145 between the wiper and mating surface, could extend at an acute angle B, Fig. 6, of 40°, the ID of seal 144 would be about 48 mm and the OD of the mating part of surface 145, 48.3 mm, creating a 0.3 mm interference. Ranges for the angles of interference, and differences in the angles, analogous to those described above for corresponding parts in the embodiment of Figs. 1-4, would be typical.

As an example, the lower projection 161 is 5.8 mm long and sits at an acute angle C (Fig. 6) with respect to the media inner edge 15c, of 45°, i.e., a different angle (typically 2-6° larger) of extension than the seal 144. The ID of the seal 161 is 46.5 mm and designed to snap fit into a 46.5 mm (inside radius) groove on post 12.

It is noted that if the groove 162 is made with a generally rectangular cross-section as shown, it will be easy for the lip member 161a to engage the groove 162, but harder to inadvertently disengage. It is noted that with acute angle C larger than acute angle B, lip 144 will not engage and become hung up in groove 162, during removal of cartridge 106 from post 112.

In Figs. 7 and 8, cartridge 106 is shown. In Fig. 106 is shown in cross-section and in Fig. 8, an enlarged fragmentary view of a portion of Fig. 7 is shown, hi Fig. 8 detail features relating to end cap 125, lip seal 144 and projection 161a can be seen.

III. The Alternate Embodiments of Figs. 9 and 10 Attention is now directed to Fig. 9. hi Fig. 9 assembly 200 is shown comprising housing 205, filter head 220 (with inlet 221 and outlet 222) and internally received cartridge 206. The housing 205, and cartridge 206 may be generally described above for the example of Fig. 1, except as specifically described in this section. It is noted that the principles described in this section could also be applied to an arrangement having the features of Fig. 5.

Referring to Fig. 9, the housing 205 includes a bottom 225 with a central drain 226. Projection 227 extends upwardly into housing 205 (from bottom 225) and around drain 226.

Cartridge 206 includes a bottom closed end cap 230 having a central receiving section 231 therein, to fit over post 227. O-ring seal 232 is provided to provide a seal between bottom 230 and drain 227, during use.

As the bowl 205 is separated from the head 220, seal 232 will open, allowing liquid within interior 205 a to drain through drain 226. The seal force at

232 will typically be chosen to be less than the seal arrangement at the opposite end, between cartridge 206 and post 212. Thus the cartridge 206 will remain attached to the post 212 while the draining occurs. Alternate arrangements are possible.

Referring to Fig. 10, assembly 300 is depicted. Assembly 300 is analogous to assembly 200 except at bottom 325 a drain aperture 326 is provided, but no internally projecting stem. Bottom end cap 330 is provided still in a closed manner, but with a central closed projection 332 including an outwardly projected seal arrangement 333 thereon, to provide a seal with aperture 326. Again, as housing 305 is separated from head 320, cartridge 306 will separate from aperture 326 to allow drainage.

IV. A Spin-On Arrangement, Figs. 11-13 Herein above, it was stated the principles according to the present disclosure can be implemented in a spin-on arrangement. An example of such a spin-on type assembly is depicted in Figs. 11-13, as follows. The reference numeral 400, Fig. 11, generally shows an assembly comprising a filter head 401 and a spin-on filter cartridge assembly 402, shown in operational engagement. Referring to filter head 401, liquid inlet is generally shown at 405 and filtered liquid outlet is shown at 406. The arrangement 400 is configured for "in-to-out" filtering flow, although the principles could be adapted for "out-to-in" flow.

The spin-on filter assembly 402 generally comprises an outer housing 410 having a side wall 410a and base 410b. The spin-on filter cartridge 402 further includes an internally received filter cartridge 412 and a top piece 413. The filter cartridge 412 can generally be in accord with the cartridge as described above for the embodiment of Fig. 1, except that cartridge 412 is not a serviceable item, relative to the housing 410. Thus cartridge 412 generally comprises media 420, outer roving 421, bottom closed end cap 422 and upper end cap 423 with central opening 424. The cartridge 412 includes a sealing arrangement 425 analogous to the seal arrangement described for Fig. 1. Of course it could, alternately include the alternate version or variation of Fig. 5.

The cartridge 412 is secured underneath top piece 413, which is held in place by end 430 of housing side wall 410. The spin-on assembly 402 is mounted on head 401 at threads 435. In typical use, the entire assembly 402 would be replaced, when cartridge 412 is sufficiently used up. The cartridge 412 is not separable from the remainder of spin-on assembly 402, due to the presence of top piece 413 which includes a portion 413a positioned in overlap with cartridge 412.

As with the arrangements of other embodiments, the media 420 defines central region 420a. Again, the particular assembly 400 depicted is configured for in-to-out flow during filtering, and thus unfϊltered liquid is connected from inlet 405 into region 420a, through media 420 into annulus 440 and then outwardly from annulus 440 through outlet 406.

Variations as discussed above for other embodiments can be utilized with the arrangement of Fig. 11. In Fig. 12 spin-on filter assembly 402 is depicted separated from the head. It is noted that an o-ring mount 450 is provided with o-ring 451 thereon, to provide a seal to the filter head 401, Fig. 11, when spin-on arrangement 402 is installed. Mount 450 can comprise a nylon retainer ring pressed fit into the top of the threaded piece 413, with o-ring 451 positioned there around. When the spin-on filter assembly 402 is installed on the filter head 401 , the o-ring would be forced into the sealing cavity, to provide sealing as shown in Fig. 11. hi Fig. 13 a top plan view of spin-on assembly 402 is provided for additional viewing of engagement among o-ring support 450, o-ring 451, threaded piece 413 and end cap 423 of cartridge 420.

V. A Fuel/Water Separator Arrangement, Fig. 14 As indicated above, principles according to the present disclosure can be implemented in a fuel/water separator. Such an arrangement is illustrated in Fig. 14. Referring to Fig. 14, a fuel/water separator assembly is shown generally at 500. Fuel/water separator 500 generally comprises housing 501 and interiorly received cartridge 502. The cartridge 502 may be generally in accord with a cartridge as described for previous embodiment, comprising media pack 512, roving 513, upper open end cap 514 with seal arrangement 515. The seal arrangement 515 shown is analogous to the one depicted for Fig. 1, however the alternate arrangement depicted with respect to Fig. 5 could also be used.

Opposite open end cap 514 is provided end cap 520. End cap 520 is not closed, but rather includes a central aperture 521 therethrough, for drainage of collected water within interior 512a. The water would flow through aperture 521 and could be tapped or released through valve arrangement 525.

It is noted that in Fig. 14 the cartridge 502 depicted includes, at end cap 520, projection 530 extending away from the media pack 512, and having o-ring 531 thereon, to be pressed into aperture 540 during mounting, and to provide a seal therein.

During use, the housing 501 would be mounted on an appropriate filter head for fuel/water separation and filtering by thread 542. The filter head would be configured for sealing with seal arrangement 515, in accord with previous discussions.

VI. Materials; General Observations

Media utilized in cartridge arrangements according to the present disclosure would be selected for the typical use involved, and is a matter of choice. Although a variety of end cap materials can be utilized, for the end cap involving the seal arrangement, it would be preferred that the material have an appropriate composition to withstand the conditions of use expected, but to also have sufficient strength and flexibility to form the types of seal arrangements described. A useable material as indicated above is nylon, in particular glass reinforced nylon, an example being glass reinforced nylon 66.

A commercially available, useable, nylon material is Dupont Zytel 70G33L. The properties of this commercially available material indicate examples of useable, acceptable, materials for the arrangements described.

From the examples provided, it can be understood that the principles can be applied in a bowl/cartridge arrangement or in a spin-on arrangement, for providing a seal arrangement to engage a filter head in a preferred and desirable manner. Alternate examples of a desirable seal arrangement are provided in the various figures.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A liquid filter cartridge comprising:

(a) a tubular extension of pleated filter media defining a central volume;

(b) a roving coiled around an outside of the tubular extension of pleated filter media;

(c) first and second end caps; the media extending between the first and second end caps;

(i) the first end cap being open and having at least one seal member thereon; and,

(d) the liquid filter cartridge being inner liner free.

2. A liquid filter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein:

(a) the roving has a width of 2 mm to 12 mm and is coiled with a spacing within the range of 2 mm to 12 mm.

3. A liquid filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1-2 wherein:

(a) the first end cap includes a plurality of spaced, radially outwardly directed, projections.

4. A liquid filter assembly comprising:

(a) a cover piece having a central post with an outer surface, a first central flow conduit extending through the central post and a second flow conduit arrangement radially spaced from the central flow conduit;

(b) a housing, defining an interior, secured to the cover piece; and,

(c) a liquid filter cartridge positioned within the housing interior and sealed to the central post of the cover piece;

(i) the liquid filter cartridge comprising:

(A) a tubular extension of pleated filter media defining a central volume;

(B) a roving coiled around an outside of the tubular extension of pleated filter media; (C) first and second end caps; the media extending between the first and second end caps;

(1) the first end cap being open and having at least one seal member thereon; and,

(D) the liquid filter cartridge being inner liner free; and, the assembly being liner free.

5. A liquid filter assembly according to claim 4 wherein:

(a) the filter media defines an open central volume; and

(b) the first central flow conduit through the central post comprises an inlet flow conduit for unfiltered liquid to enter the open central volume defined by the filter media.

6. A liquid filter assembly according to any one of claims 4 and 5 wherein: (a) the roving has a width of 2 mm to 12 mm and is coiled with spacing within the range of 2 mm to 12 mm.

7. A liquid filter assembly according to any one of claims 4-6 wherein:

(a) the first end cap includes a plurality of spaced, radially outwardly directed, projections.

8. A liquid filter assembly according to any one of claims 4-7 wherein:

(a) the liquid filter cartridge is a service liquid cartridge separable from the housing, when the housing is separated from the cover piece.

9. A liquid filter assembly according to any one of claims 4-8 wherein:

(a) the liquid filter cartridge is retained within the housing interior, when the housing is separated from the cover piece.

10. A liquid filter cartridge comprising:

(a) a tubular extension of filter media having an interior edge defining an interior volume and extending between first and second end caps; the first end cap comprising an open end cap defining a central aperture and including: (i) a first flexible lip seal member surrounding and defining the central aperture and extending at an acute, oblique, angle to the interior edge of the media and generally toward the second end cap; and,

(ii) a first member of a proj ection/receiver arrangement positioned on the first end cap and spaced axially from first flexible lip seal member and oriented around the first end cap central aperture to mechanically engage a post on a filter cover when the filter cartridge is operably positioned on the filter cover.

11. A liquid filter cartridge according to claim 10 wherein:

(a) the first member of a projection/receiver arrangement comprises a radially inwardly directed projection.

12. A liquid filter cartridge according to any one of claims 10 and 11 wherein: (a) the flexible lip seal member is 4.5 to 6.5 mm long and extends at an acute angle within the range of 35° to 50° with respect to an inner edge of the media.

13. A liquid filter cartridge according to any one of claims 10-12 wherein: (a) the first member of a projection/receiver arrangement comprises a second lip member extending at an acute, oblique, angle to the media interior edge and toward the second end cap.

14. A liquid filter cartridge according to any one of claims 10-13 wherein: (a) the first member of a projection/receiver arrangement comprises a radially inwardly directed bead.

15. A liquid filter cartridge according to any one of claims 10-14 wherein: (a) the media is pleated media having a cylindrical configuration and defining inner pleat tips;

(i) the filter cartridge being inner liner free.

16. A liquid filter cartridge according to any one of claims 10-15 wherein:

(a) the second end cap is a closed end cap;

(b) the first and second end caps are molded polymeric end caps; and

(c) a coiled roving is positioned around outer pleat tips of the pleated media.

17. A liquid filter assembly comprising:

(a) a cover piece having a central post with an outer surface, a first central flow conduit extending through the central post and second flow conduit arrangement radially spaced from the central flow conduit;

(i) the outer surface of the central post having a first surface portion with a receiver member of a projection/receiver arrangement therein;

(ii) the outer surface of the central post including a seal surface portion having an outside runnel shape;

(b) a housing, defining an interior, secured to the cover piece; and,

(c) a liquid filter cartridge positioned within the housing interior and secured to the central post of the cover piece;

(i) the liquid filter cartridge comprising a tubular extension of media extending between first and second end caps; the first end cap comprising an open end cap defining a central aperture and including:

(A) a first flexible lip seal member surrounding and defining the central aperture and extending at an oblique angle to an interior edge of the media and generally toward the second end cap; the first flexible lip seal member sealingly engaging the seal surface portion having an outside funnel shape on the central post; and,

(B) a projection member axially spaced from the first flexible lip seal member and removeably mechanically engaging the receiver member on the outer surface of the central post.

18. A liquid filter assembly according to claim 17 wherein:

(a) the liquid filter cartridge is a serviceable filter cartridge separable from the housing when the housing is separated from the cover piece.

19. A liquid filter assembly according to any one of claims 17 and 18 wherein: (a) the liquid filter cartridge is retained within the housing when the housing is separated from the cover piece.

20. A liquid filter assembly according to any one of claims 17-19 wherein:

(a) the projection member comprises a circular bead on the first end cap; and,

(b) the receiver member comprises a continuous groove around the post.

21. A liquid filter assembly according to claim 20 wherein:

(a) the first flexible lip member is positioned between the circular bead and the second end cap.

22. A liquid filter assembly according to any one of claims 17-21 wherein:

(a) the projection member comprises a second lip extending at an oblique angle to a central axis of the filter and generally toward the second end cap.

23. A liquid filter assembly according to claim 22 wherein:

(a) the second lip is positioned between the first flexible seal lip and the second end cap.

24. A liquid filter assembly according to any one of claims 17-23 wherein:

(a) the filter media defines an open central volume; and

(b) the first central flow conduit through the central post comprises an inlet flow conduit for unfiltered liquid to enter the open central volume defined by the filter media.