Abstract: A dual stage filter assembly for use in a fluid cleaning and sludge removal operation. An upper stage centrifugal separator incorporated into a first vessel. A lower stage baffle filter is incorporated into a second vessel, such that a dirty fluid flow delivered to the upper stage separator includes a clean outlet along with a separate dirty outlet which is delivered to an inlet of the lower stage filter for subsequent filtering and outflow. A convex collection element facilitates delivery of dirty fluid to the lower stage filter and includes a cone shaped separator element and can be either fixed or removable relative to the upper stage separator. An ascending pipe from the upper separator evacuates a clean fluid flow resulting from a negative pressure created within the upper separator concurrent with the dirty outlet from the upper stage being directed through the baffle filter in the lower stage.