filter components

Abstract

A filter element (14) includes a substantially cylindrical center tube (56) having a first end (57), a second end (59) opposite the first end, and a central longitudinal axis. The filter element also includes filter media (16) extending circumferentially around the base tube and longitudinally therealong, and a plate (58) connected to the base tube near the first end. The plate includes an orifice (70) and a cap (63). The aperture includes a guide feature (72) configured to position the filter element at a single circumferential position relative to the longitudinal axis, a cap extending from the top surface (60) of the plate toward the second end and having a configuration configured to align with the drain plug ( 30) Fitting inner wall (32). An orifice and a cap may be disposed radially inward of the inner periphery of the base tube, at least one of the orifice and the cap extending circumferentially about an additional longitudinal axis radially spaced from the central longitudinal axis of the base tube.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to a filter assembly, and more particularly to a filter assembly having guide features for positioning a filter element. Background technique [0002] Many systems include filter assemblies having filter elements for filtering fluids. Such filter assemblies may include one or more seals configured to form a fluid seal at the interface between the filter element and the outer filter cartridge. Such a seal can also be used to radially position the filter element during installation of the filter element and / or after the filter element has been installed. Such systems may also include a drain system configured to remove fluid from the cartridge. Such drain systems typically require the use of one or more drain valves connected to the cartridge. Regardless of configuration, such a drain system may cooperate with a filter element and cartridge to open or close a drain passage for removing fluid from the cartridge. [0003] ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, such a discharge configuration increases the axial length of the filter system and increases its overall footprint

This increase in length can create problems where space is very limited

Additionally, in order to remove fluid from the filter housing, the plug must be completely removed from the discharge channel

Such complete removal of the plug increases the likelihood of misplacing or losing the plug during routine maintenance procedures

Additionally, filter systems of the type disclosed in the '066 patent generally do not provide a structure for circumferential alignment (e.g., relative to a central longitudinal axis) of the filter cartridge when installed in the housing.

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