Abstract: A filter media system, which is capable of operating in the microfiltration regime, offers: low cost, durability, high temperature and chemical resistance, no particulation, mechanical strength, separation efficiency, and biocompatibility. A filter media system is comprised of a carbon or ceramic composite substrate which contains a carbon or ceramic matrix reinforced with carbon or ceramic fibers. The composite has an array of carbon or ceramic fiber whiskers grown onto its surface or in its bulk. A process is provided for manufacturing the filter media system wherein a carbon fiber is disposed in a matrix deposited by a CVI or LPI process, at temperatures of about 900 to about 1200° C. to achieve a weight gain of about 10 to 200% (the ceramic matrix is deposited by a CVI process from an aqueous slurry or by use of a preceramic polymer). This composite is treated with an aqueous solution of metal catalyst salt and is then heated in hydrogen at elevated temperatures to reduce the metal salt to metal.

Abstract: A filter device for use in a residential water supply system, or the like. The device includes a container having an enclosed cavity, and includes a filter unit disposed in the cavity. The device includes a two-stage filter having a first radial flow filter subassembly and a second axial flow filter subassembly.

Abstract: A jack (11) is provided with a thumb wheel (10) preferably made of a plastic material. The jack (11) includes a side gear having an end (20) extending out of a side gear housing (18). The housing (18) has an outer peripheral lip (19) which is engaged by the thumb wheel (10). The thumb wheel (10) includes a plate (24) having an aperture (26) therein of a configuration complementary to that of the side gear end (20) so that when the thumb wheel (10) is positioned on the jack (11), the side gear end (20) will be within the aperture (26) and will rotate upon rotation of the plate (24). The thumb wheel (10) also includes a collar (30) having a plurality of slots (33) therein and a circumferential barb (31) near the end thereof. Upon installing the thumb wheel (10), the collar (30) flexes and the barb (31) snaps over and engages the lip (19) on the housing (18). The engagement is only in the axial direction such that the thumb wheel (10) will freely rotate with respect to the housing (18).