Abstract: A filter coalescer cartridge for removing contaminants from a liquid comprises:(a) a first support at one end of the cartridge,(b) a second end support tending towards the other end of the cartridge,(c) a filter coalescer element comprising a plurality of aligned fibers or bundles of fibers, each fiber or bundle being secured at one end to one end support and at the other end to the other end support, and(d) a drive mechanism for relatively rotating and moving the end supports towards and away from each other to twist and compress and straighten and extend respectively the filter coalescer element.The cartridge gives good performance and is easily regenerated.

Abstract: A method of coalescence involves the use of a coalescer element consisting essentially of or comprising a sintered polymeric media having a fine porous structure. Suitable polymers include thermoplastics or thermosetting resins.The element is suitable for de-oiling oily water and dewatering crude oil.

Abstract: A backwashable filter comprises (a) an outer case, (b) a rotatable, permeable filter drum, (c) a fibrous filter element supported on the surface of the drum, (d) one or more stationary backwash arms, (e) a feed inlet leading to one side of the filter drum and (f) a filter outlet emerging from the other side of the drum. The backwash arms are in close contact with the filter element. The tendency of the feedstock to bypass the filter and enter the backwash arms is thereby reduced.