Filter seal assembly and system

Abstract

To provide a filtration system capable of reducing the possibility of movement of a filter assembly from a tube sheet and improving structural rigidity between an end cap and the tube sheet.SOLUTION: A filtration system includes: a tube sheet; a filter medium 110; and an end cap 130 coupled to a first end of the filter medium. The end cap 130 is coupled to the first end 112 of the filter medium 110, and defines an opening in fluid communication with a central medium opening, an inner surface abutting on and surrounding the end cap opening and a peripheral sealing surface 140 about the end cap. A first portion 142 of the peripheral sealing surface 140 projects inwardly towards the end cap opening, and a second portion 144 of the peripheral sealing surface 140 projects outwardly from the end cap opening. The first portion 142 and the second portion 144 are in axial alignment, and the peripheral sealing surface 140 forms an oblong loop in a first cross-section orthogonal to the axial direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 803,097, filed February 8, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to filter systems and, more particularly, to filter seal assemblies. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] The technology disclosed herein relates, in part, to a filter assembly. A filter media is disposed about a central media opening, the filter media having a first end and a second end. The central media opening extends axially from the first end toward the second end. An end cap is coupled to the first end of the filter media. The end cap defines an opening in fluid communication with the central media opening, an inner surface abutting and surrounding the end cap opening, and a peripheral sealing surface about the end cap. A first portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects inwardly toward the end cap opening, and a second portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects outwardly from the end cap opening. The first and second portions are axially aligned, and the peripheral sealing surface forms an oblong loop in a first cross section perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0004] In some such embodiments, the end cap opening is oblong in a first cross-section. Additionally or alternatively, the central media opening is oblong in a second cross-section perpendicular to the axial direction. Additionally or alternatively, the assembly has an expansion insert defining an outer surface and an insert opening, the outer surface of the expansion insert configured to define a compression fit with an inner surface of the end cap. Additionally or alternatively, the expansion insert defines a tertiary flow passage in fluid communication with the central media opening. Additionally or alternatively, the outer surface of the expansion insert defines a recess extending inwardly toward the insert opening and a protrusion extending outwardly from the insert opening, the recess and protrusion being axially aligned, and the inner surface defining a mating feature. Additionally or alternatively, the first cross-section of the peripheral sealing surface defines a first end, a second end, a first elongated side, and a second elongated side, the first portion and the second portion being defined on the first elongated side.

[0005] Additionally or alternatively, the first portion of the peripheral sealing surface abuts the second portion of the peripheral sealing surface. Additionally or alternatively, the end cap defines a plurality of first portions of the peripheral sealing surface and a plurality of second portions of the peripheral sealing surface. Additionally or alternatively, the first portions and second portions alternate. Additionally or alternatively, the filter media is in a bag configuration. Additionally or alternatively, the filter media is in a pleated configuration.

[0006] Some embodiments of the present technology relate to a tubesheet, wherein a generally planar sheet of material has a length and a width and defines a series of filter openings spanning the length and width of the sheet of material, each of the filter openings in the series of filter openings extending axially through the sheet of material and having an oblong shape perpendicular to the axial direction, the sheet of material defines a protrusion extending into each of the filter openings and a recess extending from each of the filter openings, the protrusion and the recess being axially aligned.

[0007] In some such embodiments, each of the filter openings defines a plurality of axially aligned protrusions and a plurality of recesses, the protrusions alternating with the recesses around a portion of each filter opening. Additionally or alternatively, the plurality of protrusions and the plurality of recesses form corrugations extending along a curve. Additionally or alternatively, the sheet of material is a sheet of metal. Additionally or alternatively, the shape of each filter opening defines a first elongated side, a second elongated side, a first end, and a second end, the protrusions extending from the filter opening at the first elongated side. Additionally or alternatively, the recesses extending into each filter opening at the second elongated side. Additionally or alternatively, the shape of each filter opening is symmetrical. Additionally or alternatively, the first filter opening defined in the tubesheet has a first longitudinal axis, the second filter opening defined in the tubesheet has a second longitudinal axis, and the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis are 10 degrees to 90 degrees apart.

[0008] Some embodiments described herein relate to a filtration system. The tubesheet comprises a generally planar sheet of material having a length and a width and defining a filter opening. The filter media has a first end and a second end and defines a central media opening extending axially from the first end toward the second end. The end cap is coupled to the first end of the filter media. The end cap defines an end cap opening in fluid communication with the central media opening, an inner surface abutting and surrounding the end cap opening, and a peripheral sealing surface around the end cap configured to mate with the tubesheet around the filter opening. A first portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects inwardly toward the end cap opening and a second portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects outwardly from the end cap opening, the first and second portions being axially aligned. The filter opening defines a corresponding outwardly facing convexity configured to receive the second portion of the peripheral sealing surface and a corresponding inwardly facing convexity configured to receive the first portion of the peripheral sealing surface.

[0009] In some such embodiments, the filtration system has an expansion insert defining an outer surface and an insert opening in fluid communication with the central media opening, the outer surface of the expansion insert configured to define a compression fit with an inner surface of the end cap, the outer surface of the expansion insert defining a recess extending inwardly towards the insert opening and a protrusion extending outwardly from the insert opening, the recess and protrusion being axially aligned, and the inner surface defining the mating feature.

[0010] Additionally or alternatively, the peripheral sealing surface defines a first end, a second end, a first elongated side, and a second elongated side, the first portion and the second portion being defined on the first elongated side. Additionally or alternatively, the first portion of the peripheral sealing surface abuts the second portion of the peripheral sealing surface. Additionally or alternatively, the end cap defines a plurality of first portions of the peripheral sealing surface and a plurality of second portions of the peripheral sealing surface. Additionally or alternatively, the first portions and second portions alternate.

[0011] Additionally or alternatively, the peripheral sealing surface forms an oblong loop in a first cross-section perpendicular to the axial direction. Additionally or alternatively, the end cap opening is oblong in the first cross-section. Additionally or alternatively, the central media opening is oblong in the second cross-section perpendicular to the axial direction. Additionally or alternatively, the expansion insert defines a tertiary flow passage in fluid communication with the central media opening. Additionally or alternatively, the filter opening extends axially through the tubesheet, and the filter opening is oblong in the second cross-section perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0012] Additionally or alternatively, the tubesheet defines protrusions extending into the filter openings and recesses extending out of the filter openings, the protrusions and recesses being axially aligned. Additionally or alternatively, the tubesheet defines a plurality of axially aligned protrusions and a plurality of recesses, the protrusions alternating with the recesses around each filter opening. Additionally or alternatively, the plurality of protrusions and the plurality of recesses form corrugations extending along curves. Additionally or alternatively, the sheet of material defines a series of filter openings spanning a length and width of the sheet of material. Additionally or alternatively, each of the filter openings in the series of filter openings has an oblong shape perpendicular to the axial direction. Additionally or alternatively, the shape of each filter opening is symmetrical.

[0013] In some embodiments, the technology relates to a filter assembly. A filter media is disposed about a central media opening. The filter media has a first end and a second end, the central media opening extending axially from the first end toward the second end. An end cap is coupled to the first end of the filter media. The end cap defines an end cap opening in fluid communication with the central media opening, an inner surface abutting and surrounding the end cap opening, and a peripheral sealing surface about the end cap. The expansion insert defines an outer surface and an insert opening, the outer surface of the expansion insert configured to define a compression fit with the inner surface of the end cap. The outer surface of the expansion insert defines a recess extending inwardly toward the insert opening and a protrusion extending outwardly from the insert opening, the recess and protrusion being axially aligned, and the inner surface defining a mating feature.

[0014] In some such embodiments, a first portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects inwardly toward the end cap opening and a second portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects outwardly from the end cap opening, the first portion and the second portion being axially aligned. Additionally or alternatively, the first portion of the peripheral sealing surface abuts the second portion of the peripheral sealing surface. Additionally or alternatively, the end cap defines a plurality of first portions of the peripheral sealing surface and a plurality of second portions of the peripheral sealing surface. Additionally or alternatively, the peripheral sealing surface forms an oblong loop in a first cross-section perpendicular to the axial direction. Additionally or alternatively, the expansion insert defines a tertiary flow passage in fluid communication with the central media opening. Additionally or alternatively, the first cross-section of the peripheral sealing surface defines a first end, a second end, a first elongated side, and a second elongated side, the first portion and the second portion being defined on the first elongated side.

[0015] The above summary is not intended to describe each embodiment or every implementation. Rather, illustrative embodiments will become more fully understood by reference to the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments and claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0016] The present technology will be more fully understood and appreciated in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary filter assembly consistent with certain embodiments of the current art. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a second perspective view of the exemplary filter assembly consistent with FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a detailed view of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a detailed view of FIG. 2. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment. [Figure 7]FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of yet another exemplary embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment consistent with FIG. 3. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is an alternative cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment consistent with FIG. 3. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a front view of a portion of an exemplary system. [Figure 11] 1 is an exploded perspective view of portions of an exemplary system consistent with some embodiments. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a perspective exploded view of portions of another exemplary system consistent with some embodiments. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a side view of an exemplary system consistent with FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0018] The figures are shown primarily for clarity and, as a result, are not necessarily drawn to scale. Additionally, various structures / components, including but not limited to fasteners, electrical components (wiring, cables, etc.), etc., may be shown diagrammatically or removed in part or in whole from the figures to better illustrate aspects of the illustrated embodiment, or the inclusion of such structures / components is not necessary for an understanding of the various exemplary embodiments described herein. However, the absence of a description / description of such structures / components in a particular figure should not be construed as limiting the scope of the various embodiments in any way.

[0019] FIG 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary filter assembly 100 consistent with certain embodiments of the current art, and FIG 2 illustrates a second perspective view of the exemplary filter assembly 100. Filter assembly 100 has a filter media 110 having a first end 112 and a second end 114. An end cap 130 is coupled to first end 112 of the filter media. End cap 130 defines an end cap opening 136 in communication with central media opening 116.

[0020] The filter media 110 is generally configured to filter fluids, such as, for example, gaseous fluids, although in some other embodiments the filter media 110 is configured to filter liquids. The filter media 110 is generally disposed about a central media opening 116. The filter media 110 and the central media opening 116 extend in an axial direction a from a first end 112 of the filter media 110 toward a second end 114 of the filter media 110.

[0021] The filter media 110 can be made from a variety of types and combinations of materials. In some embodiments, the filter media 110 is in a pleated configuration (described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 8). In some embodiments, the filter media 110 is in a bag configuration, which is one or more layers of filter media defining an open end at a first end 112, a closed end towards a second end 114, and a central media opening 116. Other types of filter media 110 can also be used.

[0022] The closure 120 can be defined toward the second end 114 of the media 110. The closure 120 is generally configured to block the central media opening 116 at the second end 114 of the media 110. In particular, the closure 120 helps define a fluid flow path extending through the media 110 between the exterior of the filter assembly 100 and the central media opening 116. In some embodiments, such as those in which the media 110 is in a pleated configuration, the closure 120 can be a second end cap coupled to the second end 114 of the media 110. In other embodiments, the closure 120 can be a portion of the media 110 itself, for example, when the media 110 is in a bag configuration.

[0023] In some embodiments, the central media opening 116 defines a downstream side of the filter assembly 100, and the outer surface 118 of the filter media 110 defines an upstream side of the filter assembly 100. In some other embodiments, the central media opening 116 defines an upstream side of the filter assembly 100, and the outer surface 118 of the filter media 110 defines a downstream side of the filter assembly 100.

[0024] The filter assembly 100 is generally configured to be installed in a filtration system, and the end cap 130 in particular is generally configured to form a seal with the system components and the filter media 110 such that filtrate is separated from unfiltered fluid, which will be described in further detail below. The end cap 130 defines a filter media receptacle 134 configured to receive the first end 112 of the filter media 110. The end cap opening 136 is in fluid communication with the central media opening 116 to allow fluid to pass therethrough. The end cap 130 defines an inner surface 138 that abuts and surrounds the end cap opening 136, which can be seen in FIG. 4, which is a detailed view of FIG. 2, in particular.

[0025] The end cap 130 also defines a circumferential sealing surface 140 around the end cap 130, which can be seen, among other things, in FIG. 4, a detailed view of FIG. 1. The circumferential sealing surface 140 is configured to be sealably received by a filtration system component, such as a tubesheet opening, which will be described in further detail below. The circumferential sealing surface 140 has a depth d in the axial direction. The depth d can be dimensioned to accommodate a system component configured to form a seal with the circumferential sealing surface 140. In some embodiments, the depth d can be between 3 mm and 30 mm, between 4 mm and 15 mm, or between 5 mm and 10 mm. In one exemplary embodiment, the depth d is about 6 mm. The circumferential sealing surface 140 has a length that extends around the end cap opening 136. A first portion 142 of the circumferential sealing surface 140 projects inwardly toward the end cap opening 136, thus forming a recess. The second portion 144 of the peripheral sealing surface 140 projects outwardly from the end cap opening 136, thus forming a convex portion. The first portion 142 and the second portion 144 are axially aligned.

[0026] The end cap edge 132 extends outwardly from the peripheral sealing surface 140. In some embodiments, the end cap edge 132 abuts the peripheral sealing surface 140 around the length of the peripheral sealing surface 140 around the end cap 130. The end cap edge 132, in some embodiments, can also be configured to form a seal with a system component. For example, the end cap edge 132 can define a seal bearing surface 133 that abuts the peripheral sealing surface 140. The seal bearing surface 133, in some embodiments, is planar. The seal bearing surface 133 can be orthogonal to the peripheral sealing surface 140.

[0027] End cap 130 can be made from a variety of different types of materials and combinations of materials. In some embodiments, end cap 130 is made from urethane. In some embodiments, end cap 130 is made from cast aluminum with a gasket material disposed over one or more surfaces, for example, around peripheral sealing surface 140 and at least a portion of seal support surface 133 around peripheral sealing surface 140. In some embodiments, end cap 130 is at least partially made from a material having a durometer of about 30 Shore A to 70 Shore A.

[0028] 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the end cap 130 in a plane perpendicular to the axial direction a. In this view, the peripheral sealing surface 140 is a line that forms a loop around the end cap opening 136. The loop formed by the peripheral sealing surface 140 is an ellipse elongated in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis L. Similarly, the end cap opening 136 is also an ellipse elongated in the longitudinal direction L.

[0029] The shape of the first and second portions 142, 144 of the circumferential sealing surface 140 can be seen in detail in the current figure. It can further be seen that the end cap 130 defines a plurality of first portions 142 of the circumferential sealing surface 140 and a plurality of second portions 144 of the circumferential sealing surface 140. At least one first portion 142 abuts at least one second portion 144 of the circumferential sealing surface 140. In fact, the plurality of first portions 142 alternate with the plurality of second portions 144. The plurality of first portions 142 and second portions 144 form, in turn, corrugations extending along the curve c.

[0030] A cross-section of peripheral sealing surface 140 defines a first end 143, a second end 145, a first elongated side 147, and a second elongated side 149. First portion 142 and second portion 144 are defined on first elongated side 147. First portion 142 and second portion 144 are also defined on second elongated side 149.

[0031] In this embodiment, the circumferential sealing surface 140 is symmetrical about the longitudinal axis L, however, in some embodiments, the circumferential sealing surface 140 is not symmetrical. Furthermore, while each of the first portion 142 and the second portion 144 of the circumferential sealing surface 140 has a repeating regular contour shape, in some embodiments, the contour shapes of the first portion 142 and the second portion 144 are not regular and / or do not repeat. Furthermore, at least one first portion 142 can have a different contour shape from another first portion 142. Similarly, at least one second portion 144 can have a different contour shape from another second portion 144.

[0032] The peripheral sealing surface 140 can have a structure incorporating protrusions and recesses having shapes, sizes, and proportions consistent with the sealing surfaces disclosed in PCT / US2018 / 045819, filed August 8, 2018, entitled “Filter Cartridges: Air Cleaner Assemblies; Housings; Features; Components; and, Methods,” which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0033] The total length of the circumferential sealing surface 140 may be referred to as P1, and the total length of the portion of the circumferential sealing surface 140 defined by the convex portion and the concave portion may be referred to as P2, with "total length" in this context referring to the sealing surface distance including the contour. In the present illustration, P2 is, for example, the length of the circumferential sealing surface 140 between the end points 10c and 10d of the second section defining the convex portion abutting the concave portion plus the length of the circumferential sealing surface 140 between the end points 10a and 10b of the first section defining the convex portion abutting the concave portion. The ratio of P1 to P2 is generally greater than 1.0, but in some embodiments, the ratio of P1 to P2 is approximately equal to 1.0. In some embodiments, the ratio of P1 to P2 is between 1.1 and 3.0. In some embodiments, the ratio of P1 to P2 is between 1.2 and 1.7. In one example, the ratio of P1 to P2 is approximately equal to 1.5.

[0034] The dimensions of the protrusions and recesses can be characterized in various ways, for example, by the depth D1 between a particular protrusion and an adjacent recess. Typically, the protrusion / recess depth D1 is 70 mm or less, often 50 mm or less, usually 30 mm or less. Typically, the protrusion / recess depth D1 is at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, and sometimes at least 15 mm. The protrusion / recess depth D1 can be 5-15 mm, for example 6 mm or 9 mm, in some embodiments. Alternatives are possible.

[0035] In some embodiments, the concave portion of the first portion 142 defines a radius R1. The radius R1 of the first portion can be between 4 mm and 40 mm. In some embodiments, the radius R1 of the first portion can be about 4 mm, 6 mm, 12 mm, 16 mm, 24 mm, 33 mm, or 39 mm. In some embodiments, the convex portion of the second portion 144 defines a radius R2. The radius R2 of the second portion can be between 4 mm and 40 mm. In some embodiments, the radius R2 of the second portion can be about 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 11 mm, 16 mm, 17 mm, 19 mm, or 26 mm. Furthermore, the distance between adjacent first portions or adjacent second portions, e.g., the distance dd in FIG. 5, is generally greater than 10 mm. In some embodiments, the distance dd can be between 15 mm and 70 mm, between 30 mm and 50 mm, or between 35 mm and 45 mm. In one example, the distance dd can be about 42 mm. It should be noted that when there are multiple first and second portions of the peripheral sealing surface 140, each first portion (or second portion) does not necessarily have the same depth, radius, and / or shape, and the distance between adjacent first portions and adjacent second portions may vary.

[0036] 6 shows a cross-section through another exemplary end cap 200 of a filter assembly. The filter assembly can be consistent with other filter assemblies discussed herein except where incompatible. Similar to the cross-section shown in FIG. 5, here the cross-section is in a plane perpendicular to the axial direction of the filter assembly. The end cap 200 defines an end cap opening 230 and a peripheral sealing surface 220 about the end cap 200. The peripheral sealing surface 220 also extends about the end cap opening 230. The end cap 200 also has an end cap rim 210 extending outwardly from the peripheral sealing surface 220.

[0037] Circumferential sealing surface 220 has a first protrusion 222 and a second protrusion 224 that extend outwardly from end cap 200 and end cap opening 230. In this example, the shape of peripheral sealing surface 220 is not symmetrical (unlike the example shown in FIG. 5). A first recess 226 and a second recess 228 abut each side of first protrusion 222 due to the protruding shape of first protrusion 222. The ratio of the overall length of peripheral sealing surface 220 to the overall length of peripheral sealing surface 220 defined by the protrusions and recesses can be similar to the ratio described above with respect to FIG. 5.

[0038] A protrusion / recess depth D2 can be defined between the first protrusion 222 and an adjacent recess (such as the first recess 226). The protrusion / recess depth can be similar to the depth described above with respect to FIG. 5. The first protrusion 222 can define a radius R3. The radius R3 of the first protrusion can be similar to the radius R1 of the first portion described above with respect to FIG. 5. The second protrusion 224 can define a radius similar to or different from the radius R3 of the first protrusion. The second recess 228 can define a radius R4. The radius R4 of the second recess 228 can be similar to the radius R2 of the second portion described above with respect to FIG. 5. The first recess 226 can define a radius similar to or different from the radius R2 of the second recess 228.

[0039] 7 shows a cross-section through another exemplary end cap 300 of a filter assembly. The filter assembly can be consistent with other filter assemblies discussed herein except where incompatible. Similar to the cross-section shown in FIG. 5, here the cross-section is a plane perpendicular to the axial direction of the filter assembly. The end cap 300 defines an end cap opening 330 and a peripheral sealing surface 320 about the end cap 300. The peripheral sealing surface 320 also extends about the end cap opening 330. The end cap 300 also has an end cap rim 310 extending outwardly from the peripheral sealing surface 320.

[0040] Circumferential sealing surface 320 has a first protrusion 322 and a second protrusion 324 that extend outwardly from end cap 300. First protrusion 322 may itself be characterized by an abutting first recess 326 defined by circumferential sealing surface 320. Second protrusion 324 is similarly formed. Circumferential sealing surface 320 also has a third protrusion 328 and a fourth protrusion 340 that abut a second recess 342.

[0041] The ratio of the overall length of the peripheral sealing surface 320 to the overall length of the peripheral sealing surface 320 defined by the protrusions and recesses may be similar to the ratio described above with respect to FIG. 5. A protrusion / recess depth D3 may be defined between the first protrusion 322 and the first recess 326 (which is an adjacent recess). The protrusion / recess depth D3 may be similar to the depth described above with respect to FIG. 5. The first protrusion 322 may define a radius R5. The radius R5 of the first protrusion may be similar to the radius R1 of the first portion described above with respect to FIG. 5. The second protrusion 324 may define a radius similar to or different from the radius R5 of the first protrusion. The first recess 326 may define a radius R6. The radius R6 of the first recess 326 may be similar to the radius R2 of the second portion described above with respect to FIG. 5. The first recess 326 can define a radius that is similar to or different from the second recess 342, and the third protrusion 328 and the fourth protrusion 340 can each define a radius that is similar to or different from the first protrusion 322.

[0042] 5-7 have protrusions and recesses that define radii, in some other embodiments, one or more of the protrusions and / or recesses have straight line segments that do not define a curve. In such embodiments, the shape of the peripheral sealing surface may define corners that join a straight line segment to another straight line segment or a straight line segment to a curved segment.

[0043] FIG. 8 is an example of a second cross-sectional view of the filter assembly 100 consistent with FIGS. 1-5. The cross-section is axial and orthogonal through the filter media 110 of FIG. 3. In this example, the filter media 110 is a pleated filter media. The pleated filter media has a plurality of pleats 306 extending axially. A first set 302 of pleat folds are near the periphery of the filter media 110, and a second set 304 of pleat folds define a central media opening 116. In this embodiment, a liner 308 is disposed within the pleated filter media 110, and together they define the central media opening 116. In some embodiments, the liner 308 can be omitted. The central media opening 116 is oblong and has a generally oval shape.

[0044] Figure 9 is another example of a second cross-sectional view of the filter assembly 100 consistent with Figures 1-5. The cross-section is axial and orthogonal through the filter media 110 of Figure 3. In this example, the filter media 110 is in a bag configuration and also defines a central media opening 116 that is oblong. Unlike the example of Figure 8, here the filter media does not have a pleated structure.

[0045] Figure 10 is a front view of a portion of an exemplary system consistent with some embodiments, and Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of such a system. System 400 includes a tubesheet 410 defining a filter opening 420 and a filter assembly 100 configured to mate with tubesheet 410 about filter opening 420.

[0046] Filter assembly 100 may be consistent with filter assemblies described elsewhere herein in that filter assembly 100 has filter media 110 extending axially a and an end cap 130 coupled to a first end 112 of filter media 110. End cap 130 defines an end cap opening 136 that communicates with a central media opening of filter media 110, and end cap 130 has an end cap rim 132 that extends outwardly from end cap opening 136. Although not visible in the views described herein, filter assembly 100 has a peripheral sealing surface 140 having a shape consistent with that shown in FIG.

[0047] The tubesheet 410 is generally configured to receive one or more filter assemblies. The tubesheet 410 is generally a generally planar sheet of material having a length in a length direction L and a width in a width direction W. The tubesheet 410 can be made from a variety of materials and combinations of materials, and in one example, the tubesheet 410 is made from metal. In another example, the tubesheet 410 is made from fiberglass. The length L and width W generally lie in a plane perpendicular to the axial direction a of the filter assembly 100. The sheet of material defines a series of filter openings 420 throughout the length L and width W of the sheet of material. Each of the filter openings 420 in the series of filter openings penetrates the sheet of material in the axial direction a.

[0048] Each of the filter openings 420 can have an oblong shape perpendicular to the axial direction a, which can be seen particularly in FIG. 10 . Thus, each of the filter openings 420 can have a longitudinal axis l. To accommodate a desired number of filter openings 420 on the tubesheet 410, some of the filter openings 420 can be aligned differently than other filter openings 420 on the tubesheet 410. In some embodiments, the first plurality of filter openings 430 are defined in the tubesheet 410 such that each of their corresponding longitudinal axes l1 are radially disposed across the tubesheet 410. In some embodiments, the second plurality of filter openings 440 are defined radially across the tubesheet 410 such that each of their corresponding longitudinal axes l2 are radially disposed tangentially across the tubesheet 410. In some embodiments, a first filter opening 460 defined by the tubesheet 410 has a first longitudinal axis l1 and a second filter opening 462 defined by the tubesheet 410 has a second longitudinal axis l2, and the first longitudinal axis l1 and the second longitudinal axis l2 are spaced apart by between 10 and 90 degrees.

[0049] The filter openings define a protrusion 422 extending outwardly from each of the filter openings 420 and a recess 424 extending into each of the filter openings 420. The protrusion 422 and the recess 424 are axially aligned.

[0050] In various embodiments, the end cap 130 of the filter assembly 100 is generally configured to mate with the tube sheet 410 about the filter opening 420. In particular, the peripheral sealing surface 140 (see FIG. 3 ) of the end cap 130 is configured to form a seal with the tube sheet 410. In some embodiments, the tube sheet 410 forms a compression fit with the peripheral sealing surface 140. As can be seen by comparing the cross-sectional view of the peripheral sealing surface in FIG. 5 and the shape of the filter opening in FIG. 10 , the filter opening 420 is configured to receive the peripheral sealing surface 140. As described with respect to FIG. 5 , the peripheral sealing surface defines at least one first portion 142 that projects inwardly toward the end cap opening 136 and a second portion 144 that projects outwardly from the end cap opening 136. The filter opening 420 configured to receive the filter assembly 100 defines a corresponding outwardly facing protrusion 422 configured to receive the second portion 144 of the peripheral sealing surface 140 and a corresponding recess 424 configured to receive the first portion 142 of the peripheral sealing surface 140.

[0051] In this example, each of the filter openings 420 defines a plurality of axially aligned protrusions 422 and a plurality of recesses 424, where the protrusions 422 alternate with the recesses 424 around a portion of each filter opening 420. The shape of each filter opening 420 defines a first elongated side 452, a second elongated side 454, a first end 456, and a second end 458. The protrusions 422 extend from the filter opening 420 on the first elongated side 452. In this particular example, each elongated side 452, 454 of the filter opening 420 has a plurality of protrusions 422 and a plurality of recesses 424 that in turn form corrugations extending along a curve. The recesses 424 extend into each filter opening on the second elongated side 454. Similar to the shape of the peripheral sealing surface discussed above with respect to FIG. 5, here the shape of each filter opening 420 is symmetrical.

[0052] The configuration of the filter opening 420 and the peripheral sealing surface of the filter end cap 130 consistent with the technology disclosed herein can have various advantages. For example, the filter opening 420 configuration can be a safety feature that ensures that a user cannot install an inappropriate filter assembly into the filter opening 420. As another example, fluid flow during system operation can exert forces on the filter assembly 100 that can cause the filter assembly 100 to move relative to the tube sheet 410 to eliminate the seal between the filter assembly 100 and the tube sheet 410. The configuration of the interface defined by the peripheral sealing surface 140 (FIG. 5) and the tube sheet 410 together can improve the structural rigidity between the end cap 130 and the tube sheet 410 to reduce the likelihood of the filter assembly 100 moving from the tube sheet 410 during system operation. Such improved structural rigidity can also prevent fluid from bypassing the filter assembly 100 by leaking through a portion of the seal area between the filter assembly 100 (particularly the end cap 130) and the tube sheet 410.

[0053] In some embodiments, the seal bearing surface 133 ( FIG. 3 ) defined by the end cap edge 132 is configured to abut the major surface 412 ( FIG. 11 ) of the tubesheet 410 around the filter opening 420. In some, but not all, such embodiments, the seal bearing surface 133 and the major surface 412 are configured to form a seal.

[0054] It should be noted that the peripheral sealing surfaces of the end caps and the tubesheets are generally configured to mate to form a fluid seal between the end caps and the tubesheets. Thus, in embodiments in which the loops defined by the peripheral sealing surfaces have a contour that deviates from that shown in FIG. 5 (e.g., FIGS. 6 and 7), the filter openings defined by the tubesheets have a corresponding contour that allows the tubesheets to mate with the peripheral sealing surfaces and seal support surfaces of the end caps. The fluid seal between the end caps and the tubesheets provides system isolation between the upstream pre-filtered fluid and the filtrate.

[0055] In some exemplary embodiments of the technology disclosed herein, the tubesheet is oriented generally parallel to a horizontal plane in space and the filter assemblies attached to the tubesheet have an axial direction that is generally vertical, however, some other embodiments may have alternate orientations.

[0056] 12 is a perspective exploded view of a portion of an alternative exemplary system 500 consistent with some embodiments, and FIG. 13 is a side view of such an exemplary system 500. The exemplary system 500 includes a tube sheet 510 and a filter assembly 600 including a filter media 610, an end cap 630, and an expansion insert 700.

[0057] Similar to the examples discussed above, filter assembly 600 has filter media 610 coupled to end cap 630 at a first end of filter media 610. Tube sheet 510 defines a plurality of filter openings 520 configured to mate with filter end cap 630. Filter media 610, end cap 630, and tube sheet 510 can be consistent with the examples discussed above and can incorporate the modifications noted above. For example, although filter openings 520 in tube sheet 510 show the particular configuration discussed above with respect to FIG. 11, filter openings 520 can have alternative configurations.

[0058] Unlike the previous examples, the present exemplary system 500 incorporates an expansion insert 700 configured to form a compression fit with the inner surface 638 of the end cap 630, where the inner surface 638 of the end cap 630 abuts and surrounds the end cap opening 636. In some embodiments, the expansion insert 700 is configured to exert an expansion force on the end cap 630 through the end cap opening 636. In some embodiments, the expansion insert 700 and the tube sheet 510 can be configured to exert a compressive force on the end cap 630. Such a compressive force can assist in securing the filter assembly 600 to the tube sheet 510.

[0059] The expansion insert 700 has an insert portion 702 configured to be inserted into the end cap opening 636. The insert portion 702 defines an exterior surface 720 and an insert opening 710. The exterior surface 720 is configured to define a compression fit with the interior surface 638 of the end cap 630. The insert opening 710 is configured to be in fluid communication with the end cap opening 636 (which is in fluid communication with the central media opening defined by the filter media 610). The expansion insert 700 has a flange 730 extending about the insert opening 710. The flange 730 defines a flange surface 733 ( FIG. 13 ) configured to abut the facing surface 640 of the edge 632 of the end cap 630. In some embodiments, the flange surface 733 is generally planar.

[0060] The interface between the outer surface 720 of the expansion insert 700 and the inner surface 638 of the end cap 630 can have a shape, size, and configuration similar to the interface between the tubesheet and the peripheral sealing surface of the end cap, discussed above. In particular, the outer surface 720 of the expansion insert 700 defines a recess 724 extending inwardly toward the insert opening 710 and a protrusion 722 extending outwardly from the insert opening 710. The recess 724 and the protrusion 722 are axially aligned.

[0061] The inner surface 638 of the end cap 630 defines a mating feature configured to mate with the outer surface 720. In particular, the inner surface 638 of the end cap 630 defines a mating protrusion 644 that extends into the end cap opening 636. The mating protrusion 644 is configured to be received by the recess 724 in the outer surface 720 of the expansion insert 700. The inner surface 638 of the end cap 630 defines a mating recess 642 that extends from the end cap opening 636, the mating recess 642 being configured to receive the protrusion 722 in the outer surface 720 of the expansion insert 700.

[0062] In various embodiments, the outer surface 720 of the insert 702 of the expansion insert 700 can define a plurality of recesses 724 and protrusions 722. In some embodiments, the recesses 724 and protrusions 722 can alternate along a portion of the length of the outer surface 720. In some embodiments, the recesses 724 and protrusions 722 can define a corrugated sealing surface. In such embodiments, the inner surface 638 of the end cap 630 defines corresponding mating features for receiving the insert 702 of the expansion insert 700.

[0063] In an example consistent with the present example, the expansion insert 700 defines a tertiary flow passage 732 in fluid communication with the central media opening. The tertiary flow passage 732 can be used to facilitate airflow in a system in which the filter media 610 is cleaned by pulsing pressurized air through the filter media that opens through the end cap openings 636 (and thus the insert openings 710).

[0064] In various embodiments, the expansion insert 700 defines a plurality of tertiary flow passages 732. The tertiary flow passages 732 can be in fluid communication with the end cap opening 636. The tertiary flow passages 732 can extend in the axial direction a. In some embodiments, the tertiary flow passages 732 are parallel to the insert opening 710. The tertiary flow passages 732 can extend through the flange 730 and the insert 702 of the expansion insert 700. The tertiary flow passages 732 can extend through a portion of the outer surface 720 of the insert 702 that defines the protrusion 722.

[0065] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the outer surface 720 of the insert 702 defines recesses and protrusions, while in some other embodiments the outer surface of the insert (and thus the inner surface of the end cap) does not define recesses and protrusions. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the filter opening 520 of the tubesheet 510 defines recesses and protrusions (corresponding to the recesses and protrusions of the peripheral sealing surface of the end cap), while in some other embodiments the filter opening 520 and the peripheral sealing surface do not define recesses and protrusions.

[0066] Restatement of the embodiment EMBODIMENT 1 a filter media disposed about a central media opening, the filter media having a first end and a second end, the central media opening extending axially from the first end toward the second end; an end cap coupled to the first end of the filter media, the end cap defining an opening in fluid communication with the central media opening, an inner surface abutting and surrounding the end cap opening, and a peripheral sealing surface about the end cap; Equipped with a first portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects inwardly toward the end cap opening and a second portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects outwardly from the end cap opening; the first portion and the second portion are axially aligned; The peripheral sealing surface forms an oblong loop in a first cross section perpendicular to the axial direction. Filter assembly.

[0067] EMBODIMENT 2 the end cap opening is oblong in the first cross section; The filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 or 3 to 12.

[0068] EMBODIMENT 3 the central media opening is oblong in a second cross section perpendicular to the axial direction; The filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 2 or 4 to 12.

[0069] EMBODIMENT 4 An expansion insert defining an outer surface and an insert opening Further equipped with the outer surface of the expansion insert is configured to define a compression fit with the inner surface of the end cap. The filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3 or 5 to 12.

[0070] EMBODIMENT 5 the expansion insert defines a tertiary flow passage in fluid communication with the central media opening; The filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4 or 6 to 12.

[0071] EMBODIMENT 6 the outer surface of the expansion insert defines a recess extending inwardly toward the insert opening and a protrusion extending outwardly from the insert opening; the recess and the protrusion are axially aligned and the inner surface defines a mating feature; The filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5 or 7 to 12.

[0072] EMBODIMENT 7 the first cross-section of the peripheral sealing surface defines a first end, a second end, a first elongated side, and a second elongated side, the first portion and the second portion being defined on the first elongated side. The filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6 or 8 to 12.

[0073] EMBODIMENT 8 the first portion of the peripheral sealing surface abuts the second portion of the peripheral sealing surface. The filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7 or 9 to 12.

[0074] EMBODIMENT 9 the end cap defines a plurality of first portions of the peripheral sealing surface and a plurality of second portions of the peripheral sealing surface; The filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 8 or 10 to 12.

[0075] EMBODIMENT 10 The first portion and the second portion are arranged alternately. The filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9 or 11 to 12.

[0076] EMBODIMENT 11 the filter media being in a bag configuration; The filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10 or 12.

[0077] EMBODIMENT 12 the filter media being in a pleated configuration; The filter assembly according to any one of the first to eleventh embodiments.

[0078] EMBODIMENT 13 a generally planar sheet of material having a length and a width and defining a series of filter openings across said length and width of said sheet of material; Equipped with each of the filter openings in the series of filter openings extends axially through the sheet of material and has an oblong shape perpendicular to the axial direction; the sheet of material defines a protrusion extending into each of the filter openings and a recess extending from each of the filter openings; The protrusion and the recess are axially aligned. Tube sheet.

[0079] EMBODIMENT 14 each of the filter openings defining a plurality of axially aligned protrusions and a plurality of recesses; the protrusions alternate with the recesses around a portion of each filter opening; 21. The tube sheet according to any one of embodiments 13 or 15 to 20.

[0080] EMBODIMENT 15 the plurality of protrusions and the plurality of recesses form a waveform extending along a curve; The tube sheet according to any one of embodiments 13 to 14 or 16 to 20.

[0081] EMBODIMENT 16 the sheet of material comprises a sheet of metal; The tube sheet according to any one of embodiments 13 to 15 or 17 to 20.

[0082] EMBODIMENT 17 the shape of each filter opening defines a first elongated side, a second elongated side, a first end, and a second end, and the protrusion extends from the filter opening at the first elongated side; The tube sheet according to any one of embodiments 13 to 16 or 18 to 20.

[0083] EMBODIMENT 18 the recess extends into each filter opening at the second elongated side; The tube sheet according to any one of embodiments 13 to 17 or 19 to 20.

[0084] EMBODIMENT 19 the shape of each filter opening is symmetrical; 21. The tube sheet according to any one of embodiments 13 to 18 or 20.

[0085] EMBODIMENT 20 a first filter opening defined in the tubesheet has a first longitudinal axis, a second filter opening defined in the tubesheet has a second longitudinal axis, and the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis are spaced apart by between 10 degrees and 90 degrees. 20. The tube sheet according to any one of embodiments 13 to 19.

[0086] EMBODIMENT 21 A tubesheet comprising a generally planar sheet of material having a length and a width, a tubesheet, said sheet of material defining a filter opening; and a filter media having a first end and a second end and defining a central media opening extending axially from the first end toward the second end; an end cap coupled to the first end of the filter media, the end cap defining an end cap opening in fluid communication with the central media opening, an inner surface abutting and surrounding the end cap opening, and a peripheral sealing surface about the end cap configured to mate with the tubesheet about the filter opening; Equipped with a first portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects inwardly toward the end cap opening and a second portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects outwardly from the end cap opening; the first portion and the second portion are axially aligned; the filter opening defines a corresponding outwardly facing protrusion configured to receive the second portion of the peripheral sealing surface and a corresponding inwardly facing protrusion configured to receive the first portion of the peripheral sealing surface. Filtration system.

[0087] EMBODIMENT 22 an expansion insert defining an outer surface and an insert opening in fluid communication with the central media opening; Further equipped with the outer surface of the expansion insert is configured to define a compression fit with the inner surface of the end cap; the outer surface of the expansion insert defines a recess extending inwardly toward the insert opening and a protrusion extending outwardly from the insert opening; the recess and the protrusion are axially aligned and the inner surface defines a mating feature; 38. The filtration system according to any one of embodiments 21 or 23 to 37.

[0088] EMBODIMENT 23 the peripheral sealing surface defines a first end, a second end, a first elongated side, and a second elongated side; the first portion and the second portion are defined on the first elongated side; The filtration system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 22 or 24 to 37.

[0089] EMBODIMENT 24 the first portion of the peripheral sealing surface abuts the second portion of the peripheral sealing surface. The filtration system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 23 or 25 to 37.

[0090] EMBODIMENT 25 the end cap defines a plurality of first portions of the peripheral sealing surface and a plurality of second portions of the peripheral sealing surface; The filtration system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 24 or 26 to 37.

[0091] EMBODIMENT 26 The first portion and the second portion are arranged alternately. The filtration system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 25 or 27 to 37.

[0092] EMBODIMENT 27 The peripheral sealing surface forms an oblong loop in a first cross section perpendicular to the axial direction. The filtration system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 26 or 28 to 37.

[0093] EMBODIMENT 28 the end cap opening is oblong in a first cross section; The filtration system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 27 or 29 to 37.

[0094] EMBODIMENT 29 the central media opening is oblong in a second cross section perpendicular to the axial direction; The filtration system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 28 or 30 to 37.

[0095] EMBODIMENT 30 the expansion insert defines a tertiary flow passage in fluid communication with the central media opening; The filtration system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 29 or 31 to 37.

[0096] EMBODIMENT 31 the filter opening extends through the tubesheet in the axial direction, and the filter opening is oblong in a second cross section perpendicular to the axial direction. The filtration system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 30 or 32 to 37.

[0097] EMBODIMENT 32 the tubesheet defines a protrusion extending into the filter opening and a recess extending out of the filter opening; The protrusion and the recess are axially aligned. 38. The filtration system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 31 or 33 to 37.

[0098] EMBODIMENT 33 the tubesheet defines a plurality of axially aligned protrusions and a plurality of recesses; the protrusions alternate with the recesses around each filter opening; The filtration system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 32 or 34 to 37.

[0099] EMBODIMENT 34 the plurality of protrusions and the plurality of recesses form a waveform extending along a curve; The filtration system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 33 or 35 to 37.

[0100] EMBODIMENT 35 the sheet of material defines a series of filter openings across the length and width of the sheet of material; The filtration system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 34 or 36 to 37.

[0101] EMBODIMENT 36 each of the filter openings in the series of filter openings has an oblong shape perpendicular to the axial direction; 38. The filtration system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 35 or 37.

[0102] EMBODIMENT 37 the shape of each filter opening is symmetrical; The tube sheet according to any one of embodiments 21 to 36.

[0103] EMBODIMENT 38 a filter media disposed about a central media opening, the filter media having a first end and a second end, the central media opening extending axially from the first end toward the second end; an end cap coupled to the first end of the filter media, the end cap defining an end cap opening in fluid communication with the central media opening, an inner surface abutting and surrounding the end cap opening, and a peripheral sealing surface about the end cap; an expansion insert defining an outer surface and an insert opening; Equipped with the outer surface of the expansion insert is configured to define a compression fit with the inner surface of the end cap; the outer surface of the expansion insert defines a recess extending inwardly toward the insert opening and a protrusion extending outwardly from the insert opening; the recess and the protrusion are axially aligned and the inner surface defines a mating feature; Filter assembly.

[0104] EMBODIMENT 39 a first portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects inwardly toward the end cap opening and a second portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects outwardly from the end cap opening; the first portion and the second portion are axially aligned; The filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 38 or 40 to 44.

[0105] EMBODIMENT 40 the first portion of the peripheral sealing surface abuts the second portion of the peripheral sealing surface. The filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 38 to 39 or 41 to 44.

[0106] EMBODIMENT 41 the end cap defines a plurality of first portions of the peripheral sealing surface and a plurality of second portions of the peripheral sealing surface; The filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 38 to 40 or 42 to 44.

[0107] EMBODIMENT 42 The peripheral sealing surface forms an oblong loop in a first cross section perpendicular to the axial direction. The filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 38 to 41 or 43 to 44.

[0108] EMBODIMENT 43 the expansion insert defines a tertiary flow passage in fluid communication with the central media opening; The filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 38 to 42 or 44.

[0109] EMBODIMENT 44 the first cross-section of the peripheral sealing surface defines a first end, a second end, a first elongated side, and a second elongated side, the first portion and the second portion being defined on the first elongated side. A filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 38 to 43.

[0110] It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the phrase "configured" describes a system, apparatus, or other structure that is made or configured to perform a particular task or adopt a particular configuration. The term "configured" can be used interchangeably with similar terms such as "deployed," "created," and "manufactured."

[0111] All publications and patent applications in this specification are indicative of the level of skill of those skilled in the art to which this technology pertains. All publications and patent applications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated by reference. In the event of a discrepancy between the disclosure of this application and the disclosure of any document incorporated by reference herein, the disclosure of this application shall control.

[0112] This application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the present subject matter. It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not limiting, and that the claims are not limited to the illustrative embodiments set forth herein.

Claims

1. a filter media disposed about a central media opening, the filter media having a first end and a second end, the central media opening extending axially from the first end toward the second end; an end cap coupled to the first end of the filter media, the end cap defining an opening in fluid communication with the central media opening, an inner surface abutting and surrounding the end cap opening, and a peripheral sealing surface about the end cap; Equipped with a first portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects inwardly toward the end cap opening and a second portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects outwardly from the end cap opening; the first portion and the second portion are axially aligned; the peripheral sealing surface forms an oblong loop in a first cross section perpendicular to the axial direction; Filter assembly.

2. the end cap opening is oblong in the first cross section; A filter assembly according to any one of claims 1 or 3 to 12.

3. the central media opening is oblong in a second cross section perpendicular to the axial direction; A filter assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 2 or 4 to 12.

4. An expansion insert defining an outer surface and an insert opening Further equipped with the outer surface of the expansion insert is configured to define a compression fit with the inner surface of the end cap. A filter assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3 or 5 to 12.

5. the expansion insert defines a tertiary flow passage in fluid communication with the central media opening; A filter assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4 or 6 to 12.

6. the outer surface of the expansion insert defines a recess extending inwardly toward the insert opening and a protrusion extending outwardly from the insert opening; the recess and the protrusion are axially aligned and the inner surface defines a mating feature; A filter assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5 or 7 to 12.

7. the first cross-section of the peripheral sealing surface defines a first end, a second end, a first elongated side, and a second elongated side, the first portion and the second portion being defined on the first elongated side; A filter assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6 or 8 to 12.

8. the first portion of the peripheral sealing surface abuts the second portion of the peripheral sealing surface; A filter assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7 or 9 to 12.

9. the end cap defines a plurality of first portions of the peripheral sealing surface and a plurality of second portions of the peripheral sealing surface; A filter assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8 or 10 to 12.

10. the first portion and the second portion are alternated; A filter assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9 or 11 to 12.

11. the filter media being in a bag configuration; A filter assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10 or 12.

12. the filter media being in a pleated configuration; A filter assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

13. a generally planar sheet of material having a length and a width and defining a series of filter openings across said length and width of said sheet of material; Equipped with each of the filter openings in the series of filter openings extends axially through the sheet of material and has an oblong shape perpendicular to the axial direction; the sheet of material defines a protrusion extending into each of the filter openings and a recess extending from each of the filter openings; The protrusion and the recess are axially aligned. Tube sheet.

14. each of the filter openings defining a plurality of axially aligned protrusions and a plurality of recesses; the protrusions alternate with the recesses around a portion of each filter opening; 21. A tube sheet according to claim 13 or any one of claims 15 to 20.

15. the plurality of protrusions and the plurality of recesses form a waveform extending along a curve; 21. A tube sheet according to any one of claims 13 to 14 or 16 to 20.

16. the sheet of material comprises a sheet of metal; 21. The tube sheet according to any one of claims 13 to 15 or 17 to 20.

17. the shape of each filter opening defines a first elongated side, a second elongated side, a first end, and a second end, the protrusion extending from the filter opening at the first elongated side; 21. A tube sheet according to any one of claims 13 to 16 or 18 to 20.

18. the recess extends into each filter opening at the second elongated side; 21. The tube sheet according to claim 13, wherein the first and second tubes are made of a tubular material.

19. the shape of each filter opening is symmetrical; 21. A tube sheet according to any one of claims 13 to 18 or 20.

20. a first filter opening defined in the tubesheet having a first longitudinal axis and a second filter opening defined in the tubesheet having a second longitudinal axis, the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis being spaced apart by between 10 degrees and 90 degrees; A tube sheet according to any one of claims 13 to 19.

21. A tubesheet comprising a generally planar sheet of material having a length and a width, a tubesheet, said sheet of material defining a filter opening; and a filter media having a first end and a second end and defining a central media opening extending axially from the first end toward the second end; an end cap coupled to the first end of the filter media, the end cap defining an end cap opening in fluid communication with the central media opening, an inner surface abutting and surrounding the end cap opening, and a peripheral sealing surface about the end cap configured to mate with the tubesheet about the filter opening; Equipped with a first portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects inwardly toward the end cap opening and a second portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects outwardly from the end cap opening; the first portion and the second portion are axially aligned; the filter opening defines a corresponding outwardly facing protrusion configured to receive the second portion of the peripheral sealing surface and a corresponding inwardly facing protrusion configured to receive the first portion of the peripheral sealing surface. Filtration system.

22. an expansion insert defining an outer surface and an insert opening in fluid communication with the central media opening; Further equipped with the outer surface of the expansion insert is configured to define a compression fit with the inner surface of the end cap; the outer surface of the expansion insert defines a recess extending inwardly toward the insert opening and a protrusion extending outwardly from the insert opening; the recess and the protrusion are axially aligned and the inner surface defines a mating feature; Filtration system according to any one of claims 21 or 23 to 37.

23. the peripheral sealing surface defines a first end, a second end, a first elongated side, and a second elongated side, the first portion and the second portion being defined on the first elongated side; Filtration system according to any one of claims 21 to 22 or 24 to 37.

24. the first portion of the peripheral sealing surface abuts the second portion of the peripheral sealing surface; 38. The filtration system according to any one of claims 21 to 23 or 25 to 37.

25. the end cap defines a plurality of first portions of the peripheral sealing surface and a plurality of second portions of the peripheral sealing surface; Filtration system according to any one of claims 21 to 24 or 26 to 37.

26. the first portion and the second portion are alternated; Filtration system according to any one of claims 21 to 25 or 27 to 37.

27. the peripheral sealing surface forms an oblong loop in a first cross section perpendicular to the axial direction; Filtration system according to any one of claims 21 to 26 or 28 to 37.

28. the end cap opening is oblong in a first cross section; Filtration system according to any one of claims 21 to 27 or 29 to 37.

29. the central media opening is oblong in a second cross section perpendicular to the axial direction; Filtration system according to any one of claims 21 to 28 or 30 to 37.

30. the expansion insert defines a tertiary flow passage in fluid communication with the central media opening; Filtration system according to any one of claims 21 to 29 or 31 to 37.

31. the filter opening extends through the tubesheet in the axial direction, the filter opening being oblong in a second cross section perpendicular to the axial direction. Filtration system according to any one of claims 21 to 30 or 32 to 37.

32. the tubesheet defines a protrusion extending into the filter opening and a recess extending out of the filter opening; The protrusion and the recess are axially aligned.

38. The filtration system according to any one of claims 21 to 31 or 33 to 37.

33. the tubesheet defines a plurality of axially aligned protrusions and a plurality of recesses; the protrusions alternate with the recesses around each filter opening; Filtration system according to any one of claims 21 to 32 or 34 to 37.

34. the plurality of protrusions and the plurality of recesses form a waveform extending along a curve; 38. The filtration system according to any one of claims 21 to 33 or 35 to 37.

35. the sheet of material defines a series of filter openings across the length and width of the sheet of material; Filtration system according to any one of claims 21 to 34 or 36 to 37.

36. each of the filter openings in the series of filter openings has an oblong shape perpendicular to the axial direction; Filtration system according to any one of claims 21 to 35 or 37.

37. the shape of each filter opening is symmetrical; A tube sheet according to any one of claims 21 to 36.

38. a filter media disposed about a central media opening, the filter media having a first end and a second end, the central media opening extending axially from the first end toward the second end; an end cap coupled to the first end of the filter media, the end cap defining an end cap opening in fluid communication with the central media opening, an inner surface abutting and surrounding the end cap opening, and a peripheral sealing surface about the end cap; an expansion insert defining an outer surface and an insert opening; Equipped with the outer surface of the expansion insert is configured to define a compression fit with the inner surface of the end cap; the outer surface of the expansion insert defines a recess extending inwardly toward the insert opening and a protrusion extending outwardly from the insert opening; the recess and the protrusion are axially aligned and the inner surface defines a mating feature; Filter assembly.

39. a first portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects inwardly toward the end cap opening and a second portion of the peripheral sealing surface projects outwardly from the end cap opening; the first portion and the second portion are axially aligned; A filter assembly according to any one of claims 38 or 40 to 44.

40. the first portion of the peripheral sealing surface abuts the second portion of the peripheral sealing surface; A filter assembly according to any one of claims 38 to 39 or 41 to 44.

41. the end cap defines a plurality of first portions of the peripheral sealing surface and a plurality of second portions of the peripheral sealing surface; A filter assembly according to any one of claims 38 to 40 or 42 to 44.

42. the peripheral sealing surface forms an oblong loop in a first cross section perpendicular to the axial direction; A filter assembly according to any one of claims 38 to 41 or 43 to 44.

43. the expansion insert defines a tertiary flow passage in fluid communication with the central media opening; A filter assembly according to any one of claims 38 to 42 or 44.

44. the first cross-section of the peripheral sealing surface defines a first end, a second end, a first elongated side, and a second elongated side, the first portion and the second portion being defined on the first elongated side; A filter assembly according to any one of claims 38 to 43.

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