KR20120130287A - Filter arrangements and filter apparatuses which include filter arrangements - Google Patents

Abstract

The filter device includes a housing assembly and a filter arrangement installed within the housing assembly. The filter arrangement includes a reusable core assembly, a first filter assembly detachably installed around the exterior of the reusable core assembly, and a bypass assembly detachably installed on the reusable core assembly to be at least partially inside the core assembly. do. The bypass assembly includes a bypass valve mechanically connected to the second filter assembly.

Description

Filter arrangements and filter apparatuses which include filter arrangements}

The present invention relates to a filter arrangement comprising a filter arrangement and a filter arrangement for filtering any of a number of contaminants from various fluids. This fluid may be a gas, a liquid, and / or a mixture of gas, liquid, and / or solid. Contaminants can be, for example, solids, colloids, and / or gels, often in the form of particles or particulate matter.

Prior art includes US Pat. No. 7,279,091 B2, registered October 9, 2007; U.S. Patent 7,179,380 B2, registered February 20, 2007; And US Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0103701 A1 (published: May 19, 2005). Patent 7, 7,79,091, for example, in Figure 1, a filter device comprising a first filter element and a support tube, a bypass device in the upper region of the filter element , And a second filter element protruding into the first filter element. 7,179,380 patent discloses, for example, a cartridge 20 in FIG. 1 comprising a full flow filter supported by a plastic center tube and a bypass filter surrounded by the full flow filter. have. In 2005/0103701, for example, FIG. 5 discloses a filter assembly comprising a replaceable filter element, a bypass valve structure, and a secondary filter structure.

Filter arrangements and filter assemblies embodying the present invention are useful in a variety of fluid systems. In one of many examples, embodiments of the present invention can be used to filter solid and / or colloidal particles from hydraulic fluids or lubricants used in large scale mechanical or electromechanical devices including wind turbines for power generation. .

Embodiments of the present invention include a first filter assembly installed around a reusable core assembly, wherein the first filter assembly may be disposable. Fluid may be passed through the first filter assembly and from the outer or upstream surface to the inner or downstream surface, wherein the reusable core assembly supports the first filter assembly against forces associated with the fluid flow. The first filter assembly may comprise a permeable filter medium for removing contaminants from the fluid. Initially, the filter medium is clean, so that a relatively small pressure difference between the upstream and downstream surfaces will maintain sufficient flow of fluid through the first filter assembly. As more fluid passes through the first filter assembly, the filter media may become increasingly clogged or dirty. The pressure difference between the upstream and downstream surfaces may increase and / or the flow of fluid through the disposable filter assembly may be reduced.

In many applications, it is often desirable to maintain sufficient flow of fluid through the filter arrangement or filter device even when the filter media is significantly fouled. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention may further include a bypass assembly that allows fluid to bypass the first filter assembly when the filter medium is contaminated. The bypass assembly may be detachably installed, at least partially positioned within the reusable core assembly, may include a bypass valve and a second filter assembly, the second filter assembly being washable and / or Or may be reusable. In many embodiments, the second filter assembly can have a coarse filter medium than the filter medium of the first filter assembly. The bypass valve can be opened when the first filter assembly is sufficiently contaminated and the pressure difference across the first filter assembly exceeds a predetermined value, whereby unfiltered fluid bypasses or contaminates the contaminated first filter assembly. Let it flow around. The second filter assembly may be located in the bypass flow to remove at least even larger contaminants that would otherwise damage components of the fluid system downstream from the filter arrangement. After the contaminated first filter assembly is replaced with a new clean first filter assembly, the bypass valve can be closed and the fluid flow can be restored to pass through the new filter assembly.

The bypass valve may open in other situations, even if the first filter assembly is not contaminated. For example, during cold startup of the fluid system, the cold unfiltered fluid may be very thick or viscous. Forcing the cold, viscous, unfiltered fluid through the fine filter media of the first filter assembly can cause damage to the thin filter media, such as, for example, torn or punctured. However, if the pressure difference is large enough to force the cold viscous unfiltered fluid through the first filter assembly, the value may exceed a predetermined value to open the bypass valve. The open bypass valve allows the cold viscous unfiltered fluid to bypass the first filter assembly so as not to damage the fine filter medium, and also allows the cold viscous unfiltered fluid to pass through the second filter assembly. Makes it possible to do The filter medium of the second filter assembly may be a more coarse filter medium and / or a more rigid porous metal medium. As a result, the cold viscous filtration fluid passes through the filter medium of the second filter assembly without damaging the filter medium. Thus, even during cold start-up, a bypass flow of the filtered fluid, at least coarse, can be provided to the filter system. After the fluid system has been running for some time, the unfiltered fluid becomes warmer, diluted or less viscous. The pressure difference required to force the warm, less viscous, unfiltered fluid through the first filter assembly can be lowered below a predetermined value to open the bypass valve. The bypass valve is then closed and the warm, less viscous, unfiltered fluid can be directed back through the first filter assembly.

According to one aspect of the invention, filter arrangements may include a reusable core assembly, a first filter assembly, and a bypass assembly. The reusable core assembly may comprise a hollow perforated core having a shaft and first and second ends and having an outer surface and an interior. The first filter assembly may be detachably installed around the reusable core assembly on the outer surface of the core. The first filter assembly may comprise a hollow filter having a filter medium, an inner surface, and both ends, and an end cap may be disposed at each end of the filter. The first filter assembly may move in the axial direction between the first position and the second position. In the first position, the end caps of the first filter assembly may be in close contact with the ends of the reusable core assembly and the inner surface of the first filter assembly may be proximate to the outer surface of the core. In the second position, the first filter assembly may be detached from the reusable core assembly. The bypass assembly may be located at least partially inside the core. The bypass assembly may include a bypass valve and a second filter assembly mechanically coupled to the bypass valve. The bypass assembly can move axially along the interior of the core between the first position and the second position. In the first position, at least a portion of the bypass assembly may be inside of the core. In the second position, the bypass assembly can be detached from the reusable core assembly.

According to another aspect of the invention, filter apparatuses may comprise a housing assembly and a filter arrangement. The housing assembly can include an interior and an inlet and an outlet of the housing, which define a fluid flow path through the interior of the housing. The filter arrangement can be disposed in the fluid flow path inside the housing assembly. The filter arrangement can include a reusable core assembly, a first filter assembly, and a bypass assembly. The core assembly can be installed in the housing assembly. The core assembly may comprise a shaft, a hollow perforated core and first and second seats. The perforated core may have an outer surface, an interior, and both ends, and the sheet may be located at both ends of the core. The first filter assembly may be detachably installed around the reusable core assembly on the outer surface of the perforated core. The first filter assembly may comprise a hollow filter and first and second end caps. The hollow filter may have a filter medium, an inner surface, and first and second ends, and end caps may be installed at both ends of the present filter. The first filter assembly may move in the axial direction between the first position and the second position. In the first position, both end caps of the first filter assembly are in close contact with the seat of the reusable core assembly and the inner surface of the first filter assembly may be proximate to the outer surface of the core. In the second position, the first filter assembly may be detached from the reusable core assembly. The bypass assembly may be detachably installed in the reusable core assembly, where the bypass assembly may be located at least partially inside the core. The bypass assembly may comprise a bypass valve and a second filter assembly mechanically coupled to the bypass valve. The bypass assembly may be axially movable along the interior of the core between the first and second positions. In the first position, at least a portion of the bypass assembly may be located inside the core. In the second position, the bypass assembly can be detached from the reusable core assembly.

Filter arrangements and filter arrangements embodying the present invention have many advantages. For example, the first filter assembly can serve as a primary filter assembly that effectively and reliably removes contaminants from the fluid. In addition, since the first filter assembly is installed to be detachable from the reusable core assembly, the first filter assembly can be quickly and easily removed and replaced once contaminated. The contaminated filter assembly simply slides off in the axial direction from the outside of the reusable core assembly, and the clean new filter assembly slides in the axial direction on the outside of the reusable core assembly. In many embodiments, the first filter assembly may be a disposable filter assembly, that is, a filter assembly that is substantially free of metal parts. Since the first filter assembly is detachable from the reusable core assembly and / or because the first filter assembly may be substantially free of metal parts, replacing the first filter assembly may generate less waste, The generated waste can also be easily incinerated. In addition, the first filter assembly can be very light and weight is an important factor in many applications. For example, filter arrangements and filter arrangements embodying the present invention can be used in wind turbines that can be built on the scale of hundreds of meters or more above ground or at sea. Carrying the light filter assembly up and down the wind turbine allows for easy and quick replacement of the first filter assembly, thus reducing the time the wind turbine is not operating for maintenance.

By detachably installing the bypass assembly including the bypass valve and the second filter assembly to the reusable core assembly, waste and weight can be further reduced. The second filter assembly can serve as a secondary filter assembly that can temporarily replace a contaminated main filter assembly. The second filter assembly may also be a disposable filter assembly, but in many embodiments the second filter assembly is reusable, which may be cleaned in place and remounted, for example whenever the main filter assembly is replaced. It may also be a filter assembly. Bypass valves may also be reusable parts. Thus, the waste to be discarded can be limited to only lightweight, contaminated main filter assemblies. In addition, since the second filter assembly is mechanically connected to the bypass valve, the two parts can be quickly and easily removed from the reusable core assembly at the same time, inspected and cleaned and then remounted, thereby eliminating any shutdown. This will save you more time. Thus, filter arrangements and filter arrangements embodying the present invention improve productivity while minimizing pollution to the environment.

1 is a cross-sectional view of a filter device, including a housing assembly and a filter arrangement located within the housing assembly.
2 is an isometric view of a linkage.
3 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of another filter arrangement.

Filter arrangements and filter arrangements embodying the present invention can be structured in a variety of ways. One of various examples of filter device 10 is shown in FIG. 1, which includes a housing assembly 11 and a filter arrangement 12 located within housing assembly 11.

The housing assembly can be variously structured. For example, the housing assembly 11 may include a housing 13 defining an interior 14. The housing 13 may have a fluid inlet 15 and a fluid outlet 16, further defining a fluid flow path passing through the interior 14 of the housing 13 between the inlet 15 and the outlet 16. can do. The housing may comprise one or more ports in addition to the inlet and the outlet, which are, for example, ones for the sensors, such as vents, drains, and / or temperature and pressure sensors. The above ports are included.

The housing assembly can be a multipiece structure. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the housing 13 has a case 20 having both ends, a cover 21 on one end of the case 20, and a case 20 on the other end of the case 20. It may be composed of a header (22). The case 20 may be formed in various ways. For example, it may be a single or multimodal structure, and generally have a shape that matches the shape of the filter arrangement 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the case 20 is generally cylindrical in shape and may enclose the filter arrangement 12. The inner surface of the case 20 is spaced apart from the outer surface of the filter arrangement 12 to define an annular space, which is generally included in a portion of the fluid flow path, which causes the fluid to enter the case 20. ) And into or out of filter array 12.

The cover 21 may be permanently or detachably fixed to the case 20 at one end of the case 20, for example the upper end. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 21 can be removably covered at the end of the case 20, for example with a thread or bolt, so that the filter arrangement 11 can be removed simply by removing the cover 21. Is accessible. The cover 21 may define a space above the filter arrangement 12, which is fluidly connected to the annular space in the case 20, and part of the interior of the housing 13 together with the annular space in the case 20. To form.

The header 22 may be permanently or detachably fixed to the end of the case 20 opposite the cover 21. In the illustrated embodiment, the header 22 can be removably covered at the end of the case 20 by, for example, a thread or bolt, thereby simply removing the case 20 with the cover 21. This makes the filter array 12 more accessible. The header 22 may have a single piece or multipiece structure and may include an inlet 15 and an outlet 16. One or more fluid passageways in the header may direct fluid from the inlet to the filter arrangement and from the filter arrangement to the outlet. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the outlet passage in the header provides fluid transfer between the filter arrangement 12 and the outlet 16, while the inlet 15 in the header 22 passes through the inlet passage. It may be in fluid communication with the annular space between the case 20 and the filter arrangement 12, allowing fluid to flow in from the outside through the filter arrangement 12. Otherwise, the housing assembly and filter arrangement can be formed such that the unfiltered fluid is guided from the inside out through the filter arrangement.

The housing assembly can be configured in a variety of ways. For example, the cover and case can be formed in one piece, for example in the form of a bowl, and can be securely fixed to the header. As another example, the inlet and / or outlet may be located at another part of the housing assembly, for example in a case or cover. The components of the housing assembly may be formed from any material, for example metal or polymer material, which is compatible with the fluid and capable of withstanding operating temperatures and pressures.

The filter arrangement 12 may include a reusable core assembly 23, a main filter assembly 24, and a bypass assembly 25, wherein the bypass assembly may include a bypass valve 26 and a secondary filter assembly. filter assembly). The reusable core assembly 23 can be installed permanently or detachably on the housing assembly 11 in a variety of ways. For example, the core assembly 23 may be removably written to the housing 13 at the open outlet end of the core assembly 23, for example by thread or bolt, so that the core assembly 23 may be detached from the core assembly 23. The open outlet end is in fluid communication with the outlet 16 through an outlet passageway in the header 22. As another example, a housing assembly, for example a header, may have a nipple that fluidly communicates with the outlet through an outlet passageway in the header. The outlet end of the reusable core assembly may be formed as a fitting to the nipple of the housing assembly. O-rings allow parts to stick to the nipples.

The reusable core assembly 23 can be configured in a variety of ways, for example as a mono or multi-component structure, and can be formed from metallic or polymeric materials. For many embodiments, the core assembly 23 includes a perforated core 30, which opens in a regular or irregular arrangement of openings that allow fluid to flow through the core 30. ). The perforated core 30 may, for example, have a cylindrical shape with a generally central axis, and includes an outer surface 31, an inner 32, and both ends 33, 34. The core assembly 23 may further include sheets 35, 36 at each end 33, 34 of the core. In some embodiments, each sheet may be a unitary (non-perforated extension of the core) at each end as a member of the core. However, in many embodiments, each sheet 35, 36 may include a separate end piece installed at the end of the core 23. Each sheet 35, 36 may have an outer surface that is prepared for tight contact with the main filter assembly 24.

The main filter assembly 24 can be detachably mounted to the reusable core assembly 23 around the outer surface 31 of the core 30 and can be formed in a variety of ways. For example, the main filter assembly 24 may comprise a hollow filter 40, which is a permeable filter medium, an inner surface 41, and both ends of the filter 40 and each of the filters 40. And end caps 44 and 45 overlying the ends. The inner diameter of the hollow filter 40 may match the outer diameter of the core 30. The inner surface 41 of the hollow filter 40 can then be proximate to the outer surface 31 of the core 30 so as to counteract the forces associated with the fluid flowing from the outside inward through the main filter assembly 24, Allow core 30 to support filter 40. For some embodiments, the filter may not be pleated, but in most embodiments, filter 40 includes a plurality of pleats, the pleats extending axially between both ends of the filter. The height of each pleat may generally be more than the length in the radial direction between the inside and outside diameters of the hollow filter. Furthermore, the filter may consist only of filter media or may comprise a multi-layered structure having one or more filter media layers and one or more additional layers. For example, the multilayer composite is located upstream of the filter media layer (s), ie downstream of the porous layer and / or filter media layer (s), ie located on its outer side, ie For example, it may comprise a porous layer, located on its inner side. The porous layer may be more sparse than the filter medium and will serve as drainage layers for draining fluid to or from the filter medium and / or as a support layer for structurally supporting the filter medium. The multilayer composite may further comprise a cushioning layer between the porous layer and the filter medium to protect the filter medium from abrasion by the porous layer.

The permeable filter medium can be constructed in any of a variety of ways, for example, as a supported or unsupported membrane, or as a fibrous structure, which includes hollow cylindrical fiber agglomerates. Or a woven or non-woven fibrous sheet that can be wound or folded. The filter media may be formed from a number of materials, for example, natural or synthetic polymers and materials including glass or other ceramic fibers, and may have a variety of fluid treatment properties, such as the submicron range, micron ( fluid treatment properties such as nominal removal ratings in the micron) range, or in the coarser range. In many embodiments, the nominal removal rating can be less than about 25 microns. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter medium may comprise a matrix of glass fibers supported on a porous polymeric substrate, and nominally about 10 microns or less, for example up to about 1 micron. May have a removal rating.

End caps 44, 45 of main filter assembly 24 may be coupled to both ends of hollow filter 40 in any number of ways, and may be variously formed. For example, one or both of the end caps 44 and 45 may be open end caps having a central opening. The central opening may have a diameter that matches the outer diameter of the perforated core 30 and the sheets 35, 36 of the reusable core assembly 23, allowing the removable main filter assembly 24 to have a reusable core. Slip along the outside of the assembly 23 in the axial direction. The end caps 44, 45 may be axially spaced apart by an axial distance similar to the axial distance between the sheets 35, 36, for example the core assembly 23 which the main filter assembly 24 is reusable. ), It may be in close contact with the sheets 35, 36 by an O-ring provided in the opening in the center of the end caps 44, 45.

Since the main filter assembly 24 is separated from the reusable core assembly 23 and does not include the reusable core assembly, the main filter assembly 24 is light in weight, resulting from the replacement of the main filter assembly 24. There is less garbage. Furthermore, in most embodiments, the main filter assembly may comprise a disposable filter assembly, that is, a filter assembly that is substantially free of metal components. For example, the filter may be formed entirely of polymeric material, except for the glass fiber matrix of the filter medium, the end cap may be formed of substantially entirely polymeric material, and the O-ring may be substantially It can be formed completely from elastomeric materials. Without any metal component, the disposable filter assembly can be lighter and easily incinerated.

Many features of the reusable core assembly and replaceable main filter assembly described above may be described in more detail in US Pat. Nos. 5,252,207, 5,476,585, and 5,543,047. Furthermore, most of the components of the housing assembly, the reusable core assembly, and the main filter assembly can be electrically conductive, canceling out any electrical imbalances and discharging discharges that may be generated by the fluid flowing through the filter array. This is, for example, as disclosed in US Pat. No. 7,128,835.

The bypass assembly 25 may be detachably installed in the reusable core assembly 23, at least partially in the interior 32 of the core assembly 23. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 1, the sub filter assembly 27 can be located within the fully reusable core assembly 23 and be in close contact with the core assembly 23 near the outlet end 34. Can be. The bypass valve 26 may be located partially within the interior 32 of the core assembly 23 and close to both ends 33 to the core assembly 23 by, for example, threads or bolts. It may be adhered to be detachable. The remainder of the bypass valve 26 may extend beyond the core assembly 23, for example into the space between the core assembly 23 and the cover 21 of the housing assembly 11. . Otherwise, the bypass valve can be installed to be detachable to the core assembly completely within the core assembly, such that the entire bypass assembly can be installed to be detachable inside the reusable core assembly.

The bypass valve can be reusable and can be configured in a variety of ways such that the bypass flow path around the main filter assembly once the main filter assembly begins to become excessively contaminated and / or begins to run out of flow through the main filter assembly. Will be provided. For example, the bypass valve 26 is a poppet biased in a closed position with respect to the valve body 50 by a fixed valve body 50 and a movable valve member 51 or spring 52. and may include a poppet. The force of the spring 52 causes the main filter assembly 24 to become very contaminated so that the differential pressure across the main filter assembly 24 is reduced from the valve body 50 against the force of the spring 52. Until the member 51 is brought away, it may be selected to hold the drive valve member 51 in the closed position. Bypass valve 26 is then in an open position and unfiltered fluid flows around or bypasses main filter assembly 24 to interior 32 of core assembly 23.

The valve body and drive valve member can be constructed in a variety of ways. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the valve body 50 is a stationary exterior covered by a blind end piece 54 at an upstream end of the outer sleeve 53. It may include a sleeve 53. The downstream end of the outer sleeve 53 may be open. The outer sleeve 53 is detachably attached to the reusable core assembly 23, for example to a seat piece 35 closer to the cover 21, for example by thread or bolt. Can be covered. The drive valve member 51 may comprise a drive inner sleeve 55, which slides tightly against the stationary outer sleeve 53 and has open ends. In the closed position, one open end of the slippery inner sleeve 55 may be sealed relative to the blind end piece 54 by the force of the spring 52. The other end of the inner sleeve 55 and the downstream end of the outer sleeve 53 may be open into the interior 32 of the core assembly 23. An opening 56 in the outer sleeve 53 near the blind end piece 54 causes unfiltered fluid in the space below the cover 21 to bear against the outside of the drive inner sleeve 55. When excessive contamination of the main filter assembly 24 and / or insufficient fluid flow through the contaminated main filter assembly 24 matches a predetermined differential pressure, the unfiltered fluid is driven by the drive valve piece 51, eg, The bypass valve 26 is opened by driving the drive inner sleeve 55 away from the stationary valve body 50, for example the blind end piece 54.

In the bypass flow of unfiltered fluid that occurs when the bypass valve 26 is opened, the sub filter assembly 27 may be located in the interior 14 of the housing assembly 11. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the sub filter assembly 27 is located in the bypass flow of unfiltered fluid in the interior 32 of the core assembly 23 downstream from the bypass valve 26. can do.

The secondary filter assembly 27 can be formed in any number of ways. For example, the length of the axis of the secondary filter assembly 27 may be shorter than the length of the axis of the main filter assembly 24 or the reusable core assembly 23. Furthermore, the outer diameter of the secondary filter assembly 27 may be smaller than the inner diameter of the reusable core assembly 23, thereby reducing the toric space between the inner surface of the reusable core assembly 23 and the outer of the secondary filter assembly 27. Will be made. The secondary filter assembly 27 may comprise a hollow filter 60 having a permeable filter medium, an outer surface, an interior, and end caps 61, 62 both at both ends and at each end of the hollow filter 6. have. The end cap 61 closer to the bypass valve 26 may be a blind end cap, while the end cap 62 at the other end of the hollow filter 60 may be an open end cap. The open end cap 62 is in close contact with the reusable core assembly 23, for example by a gasket in the seat portion 36 closer to the header 22, or in the housing assembly, for example in the header. Can be. Otherwise, the secondary filter assembly and the reusable core assembly, or the housing assembly, may be connected to each other in different ways, for example by threaded connection, with or without a contact material such as, for example, an O-ring. Can be adhered to.

The end cap of the hollow filter and sub filter assembly may be similar to that of the main filter assembly. For example, both the primary and secondary filter assemblies can be disposable filter assemblies. However, in most embodiments, the secondary filter assembly 27 may comprise a reusable filter assembly, which may be cleaned or reinstalled, for example when the main filter assembly 24 is replaced. Can be. For example, the end caps 61, 62 of the secondary filter assembly 27 can be formed from metallic material and / or the pleated filter medium comprises a porous metal medium formed, for example, from a metal screen. Or a porous metal medium without wrinkles. Other porous metal media include Rigimesh ^® metal media, PMM ^® metal media, and PMF ^® metal media available from Pall Corporation (Port Washington, New York, USA). By including a porous metal medium, the secondary filter assembly 27 is allowed to be thoroughly cleaned, for example, by high temperature and / or aggressive cleaning solutions, and reused beyond the life of many disposable primary filter assemblies. do. Further, the sub filter assembly 27 is free from catastrophic failure in a component upstream of the sub filter assembly, including, for example, a main filter assembly and a bypass valve. It can act as a filter of last chance, protecting components of the filter system downstream of the. In many, but not all, implementations of the invention, the filter media of secondary filter assembly 27 may be more sparse than the filter media of primary filter assembly 24. For example, the nominal removal rating for the filter media of the secondary filter assembly can be in the micron range or greater. In some embodiments, the nominal removal grade can be at least about 25 microns, for example at least about 50 microns. The degree of removal of the secondary filter assembly is then such that, even if a sufficient amount of unfiltered fluid flow through the filter array continues for extended periods of time after the bypass valve is opened, the filter device is otherwise harmful to the fluid system of which it is a component. It may be sparse enough to ensure that it is fine enough to remove large contaminant particles that may cause it.

The secondary filter assembly 27 may be mechanically connected to the bypass valve 26. This mechanical connection is independent of any mechanical coupling of the secondary filter assembly to the bypass valve using the core assembly. Regardless of the reusable core assembly, by mechanically connecting the secondary filter assembly and the bypass valve, both components can be quickly and easily removed from the reusable core assembly, inspected and cleaned, and refitted at the same time, This reduces the time that the fluid system may not be working.

The secondary filter assembly and the bypass valve can be mechanically connected in a variety of ways, either detachably or permanently. For example, a mechanical connector extending through the interior of the core can mechanically connect the secondary filter assembly and the bypass valve, which can be configured in a number of ways. For example, the mechanical connector may consist of simply pulling the other from the interior of the core assembly when removing either the secondary filter assembly or the bypass valve from the core assembly. In some embodiments, the mechanical connector can then comprise a chain extending through the interior of the core assembly between the bypass valve and the sub filter assembly. When the bypass valve is not installed in the core assembly, for example not fitted, and is removed from the core assembly, the cord may pull the secondary filter assembly along the bypass valve, firstly the core assembly or the housing assembly. The secondary filter assembly is opened from, and the secondary filter assembly is then pulled from the inside of the core assembly. Otherwise, this mechanical connector can be configured to draw and push the other from and into the core assembly when one of the secondary filter assembly and the bypass valve are removed and remounted. For example, this mechanical connector may then comprise a rod extending through the interior of the core assembly between the bypass valve and the sub filter assembly. When the bypass valve is removed from the core assembly, the rod may first open the secondary filter assembly and then pull the secondary filter assembly from the interior of the core assembly. When the bypass assembly is refitted into the core assembly, the secondary filter assembly may be pushed into the core assembly by a rod and then tightly attached to the core assembly, or the bypass valve may be installed in the core assembly. Can be in close contact with the housing assembly, for example when screwed on.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the mechanical connector 63 may comprise a link element, typically T-shaped, as shown in FIG. 2. The connecting element 63 may comprise a rod 64, which is detachable to the blind end cap 61 of the sub filter assembly 27 by a nut 65 at one end of the connecting element 63. It may be attached to. Otherwise, the rod can be permanently attached to the blind end cap. At the other end of the connecting element 63, a cross piece 66 extending vertically from the rod 64 is connected to the bypass valve 26, for example at the open end of the fixed outer sleeve 53, It may fit snugly or permanently. The cross piece 66 can be variously configured to flow unfiltered fluid through the bypass valve 26, past the cross piece 66, and into the sub filter assembly 27.

During operation, the unfiltered fluid enters the filter device 10, through the inlet 15 of the housing assembly 11, and then flows along a flow path in the interior 14 of the housing assembly 11, May pass through filter arrangement 12, where fluid may be filtered. For example, the unfiltered fluid flows into the inlet 15 of the header 22 and then flows along the inlet passage of the header 22 to form an annular space between the case 20 and the filter arrangement 12 and Enters the space between cover 21 and filter arrangement 12. With the bypass valve 26 in the closed position, the unfiltered fluid then passes out-in through filter 40 of the main filter array 24, where the filter medium is contaminant from the unfiltered fluid. Remove it.

The filtered fluid may then be led along the fluid flow path from the filter arrangement 12 to the outlet 16 in the housing assembly 11 and exit from the filter device 10. For example, the filtered fluid may pass through the core 30 perforated from the main filter assembly 24 and into the interior 32 of the reusable core assembly 23. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the filtered fluid then passes through the secondary filter assembly 27, for example through the filter 60 into the interior of the secondary filter assembly 27 from the outside inwards. can do. Since the filter medium of the secondary filter assembly 27 is sparse than the filter medium of the primary filter assembly 24, the filtration fluid easily passes through the secondary filter assembly 27, so that the secondary filter assembly 27 remains mostly uncontaminated. Will remain. From the inside of the secondary filter assembly 27, the filtered fluid passes through the outlet of the secondary filter assembly 27, for example through the open end cap 62, past the outlet of the reusable core assembly 23, For example, it may pass through an open seat piece 36 near the header 22 and along an outlet passage in the header 22 to an outlet 16 in the housing assembly 11.

After the main filter assembly 24 has been sufficiently contaminated, or during a cold start, the differential pressure across the main filter assembly 24 becomes excessively large and / or the fluid flow through the main filter assembly 24 becomes excessively low. Can be. At the predetermined differential pressure, the bypass valve 26 can be opened against the force of the spring 52, unfiltered fluid can flow around or bypass the main filter assembly 24, and the open bypass valve 26 Flows from the space between the cover 21 and the filter arrangement 12 into the interior 32 of the reusable core assembly 23. The unfiltered fluid can then pass through the secondary filter assembly 27, for example through the filter 60, from the outside to the inside, where the filter medium is, for example, the more sexual filter medium. For this extended period of time, at least, larger contaminants may be removed, otherwise these larger contaminants may damage components of the fluid system downstream from the filter arrangement 12. From inside the secondary filter assembly 27, the filtered fluid can be directed to the outlet 16 of the housing assembly 11 and flow out of the filter device 10.

After some time, the filter device 11 may be temporarily inoperable and the main filter assembly 24 may be replaced quickly and easily. For example, the cover 21 can be removed from the case 20, or the case 20 with the cover 21 attached can be removed from the header 22 so that access to the filter arrangement 12 can be made. It becomes possible. The contaminated main filter assembly 24 may then slide axially away from the reusable core assembly 23 along the outer surface 31 of the perforated core 30. The main filter assembly 24 can move along the outer surface 31 of the reusable core assembly 23 between the first and second positions. In the first position, the end caps 44, 45 of the main filter assembly may be in close contact with the ends, for example the seats 35, 36 of the reusable core assembly 23, and the main filter assembly 24 The inner surface 41 of the filter 40, for example the inner surface 41 of the filter 40, is connected to the outer surface 31 of the reusable core assembly 23, for example the outer surface of the perforated core 30. It can be very close. In the second position, the main filter assembly 24 can be removed from the reusable core assembly 23. The new main filter assembly 24 then holds the core 30 until the end caps 44, 45 of the main filter assembly 24 are in close contact with the seats 35, 36 of the reusable core assembly 23. Slide axially over the reusable core assembly 23 along the outer surface 31 of the < RTI ID = 0.0 >

Each time the main filter assembly 24 is replaced, or at another maintenance interval, the bypass assembly 25 may also be removed or checked. For example, the bypass valve 26 may be removed from the reusable core assembly 23, for example, pulled out and pulled from the interior 32 of the reusable core assembly, at which time the interior of the core assembly 23 may be removed. From 32, a bypass valve 26, a mechanical connector 63, for example a connecting element, and a sub filter assembly 27 are simultaneously drawn. The bypass assembly 25 can move between the interior 32 of the reusable core assembly 23, for example the interior 32 of the core 30, between the first and second positions. In the first position, at least a portion of the bypass assembly 25 is, for example, the secondary filter assembly 27, the mechanical connector 63, and a portion of the bypass valve 26 are reusable core assemblies. In the interior 32 of 23, for example, in the interior 32 of the perforated core 30. In the second position, bypass assembly 25 may be removed from reusable core assembly 23. If the secondary filter assembly is a disposable filter assembly, it can be replaced at the end of the mechanical connector. However, in many embodiments, the secondary filter assembly 27 may be a reusable filter assembly, and thus the secondary filter assembly 27 may be checked and cleaned along with the bypass valve 26. The cleaned or regenerated bypass assembly 25 may then be remounted in the interior 32 of the reusable core assembly 23. For example, the bypass assembly 26 can be inserted into the interior 32 of the core assembly 23 with the open end cap 62 of the sub filter assembly 27 facing the header 22. . When the bypass valve 26 is inserted into the core assembly 23 and installed, for example fitted, the open end cap 62 of the secondary filter assembly 27 is connected to a mechanical connector 63, for example, By means of the connecting element, it may be forced to be in close contact with the core assembly 23 or the housing assembly 11. As the main and sub filter assemblies are remounted, the filter device 10 can be actuated again.

Various features of the invention have been described and / or illustrated with respect to some embodiments, but the invention is not limited to such embodiments. For example, one or more features of such an embodiment may be omitted or modified, or one or more features of one embodiment may be combined with one or more features of another embodiment without departing from the scope of the present invention. Even embodiments with very different features may fall within the scope of the present invention.

For example, the mechanical connection is omitted and the bypass valve can be mechanically connected by connecting the two components directly to the secondary filter assembly, for example, by means of thread, bolt, or welding, to be fixed or removable. Alternatively or additionally, a bypass assembly may be formed with a sub filter assembly located upstream from the bypass valve in the bypass fluid flow path. The implementation of the filter arrangement 12 illustrated in FIG. 3 is one of many examples that may have one or both of these features. Multiple components of the filter arrangement 12 shown in FIG. 3 may be similar to the components of the filter arrangement 12 shown in FIG. 1, and like components have been given the same reference numerals.

In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the main filter assembly 24 may again be removably installed on the reusable core assembly 23 around the outside 31 of the perforated core 30 and the bypass assembly ( 25 may, in turn, be detachably mounted to the reusable core assembly 23 within the interior 32 of the core assembly 23. For example, a seat piece 35 closer to the cover (not shown) may be fitted or bolted to the bypass assembly 25, for example bypass valve 26. However, the bypass assembly 25 may comprise a bypass valve 26, which is mechanically connected directly to the secondary filter assembly 27, either permanently or detachably. Furthermore, the secondary filter assembly 27 may be located upstream of the bypass valve 26 in the bypass flow path. For example, a secondary filter assembly 27 may be located at least partially between the cover and the filter arrangement 12, which has a blind end cap 61 facing the cover. The open end cap 62 of the secondary filter assembly 27 is permanently connected to the bypass valve 26, for example in a fixed valve body 50, for example in a fixed outer sleeve 53. Detachable, it can be directly mechanically connected. A fixed valve body 50, for example a fixed outer sleeve 53, may have an open end in fluid communication with the open end cap 62 of the sub filter assembly 27. The fixed valve body 50, for example the fixed outer sleeve 53, may also include a side opening 70 slightly axially away from the open end of the fixed valve body 50. The drive valve member 51, for example the drive inner sleeve 55, may be in close contact with the open end of the valve body 50 fixed by the blind end piece 71. The blind end piece 71 of the drive valve member 51, for example the drive inner sleeve 55, is opened by the force of the spring 52 and the open end and side opening 71 in the fixed valve body 50. ) May be in close contact with a fixed valve body 50, for example a fixed outer sleeve 53.

The embodiment of FIG. 3 operates in much the same way as the embodiment of FIG. 1 described above. However, when the bypass valve 26 is closed so that the unfiltered fluid enters the inside of the filter housing (not shown) through the inlet (not shown), the unfiltered fluid is separated between the case (not shown) and the filter array 12. After passing through the annular space of, through the space under the cover, and then upside down again flowing through the secondary filter assembly 27, the interior of the secondary filter assembly 27 is filled with the filtered fluid. With the bypass valve 26 in the closed position, fluid in the sub filter assembly 27 remains inside the sub filter assembly 27, with unfiltered fluid passing through the main filter assembly 24. Flow.

When the main filter assembly 24 is sufficiently fouled or during cold start, the movable inner sleeve 55 comprising the movable valve member 51, ie the blind end piece 71, is axially oriented. Move to open the bypass valve 26. The unfiltered fluid then flows or bypasses the main filter assembly 24 and first flows through the sub filter assembly 27 and is filtered there. For example, the unfiltered fluid flows back out of the space under the cover and passes through the filter 60 of the secondary filter assembly 27, where the filter medium of the hollow filter 60 filters the fluid. The filtered fluid coming from the interior of the secondary filter assembly 27 passes through the open end cap 62 of the secondary filter assembly 27 and passes the open bypass valve 26, ie a fixed external, for example. It passes through the open end and side opening 70 of the sleeve 55 and then enters the interior 32 of the reusable core assembly 23 and then flows to an outlet (not shown) of the housing assembly.

Replacing the main filter assembly 24 in the embodiment of FIG. 3 may be similar to replacing the main filter assembly 24 in the embodiment of FIG. 1. Servicing the secondary filter assembly 27 may or may not be different. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 3, the exterior of the sub filter assembly 27 is readily accessible upon removal of the cover or covered case. As a result, there is no need to remove the bypass assembly 25 from the reusable core assembly 23 in order to clean or replace the secondary filter assembly 27. The bypass valve 26 can be removed from the interior 32 of the reusable core assembly 23 to be inspected and cleaned, which is often less exposed to unfiltered fluid, so the frequency can be lower.

In another embodiment of an embodiment within the scope of the present invention, the filter arrangement may comprise a sub filter arranged to invert and direct the bypass flow of the fluid through the sub filter element. For example, the bypass assembly can include a bypass valve and a secondary filter assembly, wherein the secondary filter assembly is located downstream of the bypass valve on the bypass fluid flow path. However, the open end cap of the secondary filter assembly may be in close contact with the open downstream end of the bypass valve, ie, with the open downstream end of the fixed outer sleeve. When the bypass valve opens, the unfiltered fluid passes through the bypass valve and then flows straight through the open end cap into the interior of the sub filter assembly. Unfiltered fluid from the interior of the secondary filter assembly flows back upside down and passes through the filter medium of the hollow filter, ie, the coarser medium and / or the porous metal medium, where the fluid is filtered. The filtered fluid then enters the interior of the reusable core assembly and exits through its outlet from the filter device.

The bypass valve and sub filter assembly of this embodiment can be mechanically connected in various ways. For example, they can be connected by mechanical connectors. For example, a rod may extend from the blind end cap of the secondary filter assembly to the blind end piece of the bypass valve, through the interior of the secondary filter assembly and the bypass valve. For example, one end of the rod may be permanently or detachably connected to the blind end cap, for example by thread or welding. The other end of the rod may be threaded. The threaded end of the rod can be inserted through the open downstream end of the bypass valve into the interior of the bypass valve, so that it can be screwed into mating threads in the blind end piece of the bypass valve, thereby The open end cap of the sub filter assembly is connected to the open downstream end of the bypass valve. A seal, such as a gasket, seals these two components against each other between the open downstream end of the bypass valve and the open end cap of the sub filter assembly. As another alternative, the bypass valve and the sub filter assembly can be mechanically connected directly to each other. For example, the end cap of the secondary filter assembly and the open end of the bypass valve may be configured to have threaded connections or to have nipples mated to fit together.

All citations, including publications, patent applications, and patents, mentioned herein, are to the same extent as if each citation was individually and specifically indicated as being incorporated by reference, and the entirety thereof is described herein. It is hereby incorporated by reference.

The use of terms such as "a, an" and "the", and the like, unless otherwise indicated or otherwise obvious in the context, in particular in the context of describing the invention (e.g., In the context of the following claims) are to be interpreted as encompassing both the singular and the plural. Terms such as "comprising", "having", "including" and "containing" are to be construed as open-ended terms (ie, otherwise indicated). Unless otherwise defined, "including, but not limited to". Reference to a numerical range herein is intended to serve as an abbreviation method for referring individually to each individual numerical value within that range unless otherwise indicated, each individual numerical value being referred to herein individually. It is hereby included in the present specification. All methods described herein may be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated, or unless it is clear that in context. Any and all examples, or example language (ie, "such as" for example) provided herein, are intended to better illuminate the invention, unless otherwise claimed, and are within the scope of the invention. No restrictions are imposed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

Several embodiments of the invention have been described herein, and upon reading the description, further modifications may become apparent to those skilled in the art. We expect that those skilled in the art can employ such variations as deemed appropriate. It is also intended by the inventors that the present invention may be practiced in a manner different from that specifically described herein. Accordingly, the invention includes all changes, modifications, and equivalents to the subject matter described in the claims appended hereto, as permitted by applicable law. In addition, any combination of the elements described above in all possible variations is encompassed by the present invention unless it is clearly indicated otherwise or not in context.

Claims (15)

Filter array containing:
A reusable core assembly having an axis, a first end and a second end, the reusable core assembly comprising a hollow perforated core, the core having an outer surface and an interior;
A first filter assembly detachably installed around the reusable core assembly located on the outer surface of the core, the first filter assembly comprising a hollow filter, the hollow filter comprising a filter medium, an inner surface, a quantity And an end cap at each end of the filter, the first filter assembly being axially movable between a first position and a second position along the outer surface of the core, wherein the first position The end cap of the first filter assembly is sealed to the end of the reusable core assembly and the inner surface of the first filter assembly is proximate to the outer surface of the core and in the second position A first filter assembly, wherein the first filter assembly is detached from the reusable core assembly; And
A bypass assembly at least partially disposed within said core of said reusable core assembly, said bypass assembly comprising a bypass valve and a second filter assembly mechanically connected to said bypass valve, said The bypass assembly is movable axially between a first position and a second position along the interior of the core, wherein at least a portion of the bypass assembly is located within the interior of the core and wherein the first And the bypass assembly is detached from the reusable core assembly in a second position. The filter arrangement of claim 1, wherein the filter media of the second filter assembly is more coarse than the filter media of the first filter assembly. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the first and second ends of the reusable core assembly comprise end pieces installed in the perforated core, each end piece having a seat. And the end cap of the first filter assembly is in close contact with the seat of the reusable core assembly. 4. Filter arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first filter assembly comprises a disposable filter assembly which is substantially free of metal components. The filter arrangement as claimed in claim 1, wherein the bypass assembly is installed in the reusable core assembly. 6. The filter arrangement of claim 1, wherein the bypass assembly further comprises a mechanical connector for mechanically connecting the bypass valve and the second filter assembly. 7. 6. The filter arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said bypass valve and said second filter assembly are directly and mechanically connected to each other. 8. The bypass valve according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the bypass valve has a stationary outer sleeve, a movable inner sleeve disposed within the fixed outer sleeve, and the movable inner sleeve in a closed position. And a spring biasing towards the filter. 9. A filter arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said bypass valve is detachably mounted to said reusable core assembly. Filter device, including:
A filter arrangement comprising a reusable core assembly, a first filter assembly, and a bypass assembly, the reusable core assembly comprising an axis, a hollow perforated core, and first and second sheets, and The core has an outer surface, an inner and both ends, the sheet is disposed at both ends of the core, and the first filter assembly is around the reusable core assembly located at the outer surface of the core. Removably installed, the first filter assembly comprises a hollow filter, the hollow filter having a filter medium, an inner surface, and both ends, and first and second end caps installed at both ends of the filter. The first filter assembly is axially movable between a first position and a second position along the outer surface of the core, The end cap of the first filter assembly is in close contact with the seat of the reusable core assembly and the inner surface of the first filter assembly is proximate to the outer surface of the core and the second position is in the second position. A filter assembly is detachably mounted from the reusable core assembly, the bypass assembly is removably installed in the reusable core assembly such that the bypass assembly is at least partially located inside the core, the bypass assembly bypassing A second filter assembly mechanically coupled to a valve and the bypass valve, the bypass assembly being axially movable between a first position and a second position along the interior of the core, the first position At least a portion of the bypass assembly comprises Located in the unit, the second position in the filter arrangement wherein the bypass assembly is detachable from the reusable core assembly; And
A housing assembly having an interior, an inlet, and an outlet, the inlet and the outlet defining a fluid flow path passing through the interior of the housing assembly, the filter arrangement being disposed in the fluid flow path inside the housing assembly; And the reusable core assembly is installed in the housing assembly. The filter device of claim 10, wherein the filter medium of the second filter assembly is more coarse than the filter medium of the first filter assembly. 12. The filter apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the housing assembly includes a header having the inlet and the outlet. 13. The filter arrangement according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein said housing assembly further comprises a case, said case being detachably installed in said header and surrounding said filter arrangement. 14. The filter apparatus of claim 10, wherein the bypass assembly further comprises a mechanical connector for mechanically connecting the bypass valve and the second filter assembly. 14. The filter apparatus according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein said bypass valve and said second filter assembly are directly and mechanically connected to each other.

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