Abstract: The invention relates to a filter element comprising a filter medium (10) extending between two end caps (12, 14) that are respectively connected to an associable end region (16, 18) of the filter medium (10), supported at least on one side on a supporting tube (20). The fact that at least one of the end caps (14) and/or at least one end region (16, 18) of the filter medium (10) comprises a contacting device (22) and/or the respective end cap (14) itself or parts thereof are embodied in such a way as to derive the electrostatic charges especially occurring during the operation of the filter element ensures that the charge generated on the filter medium (Meshpack) by tribo-electrical effects can escape towards a mass point or a mass site via the contacting device (22) or the respective end cap (14).

Abstract: A tubular filter element for filtering fluids includes a zigzag folded filter mat having rounded off mat ends. The mat ends face one another and are located in fixed positions. A bed of adhesive connects and bonds the mat ends. A cylindrical expandable metal grid surrounds at least one side of the filter mat and forms an expandable metal jacket. The metal jacket has a small mesh width and protectively surrounds the filter mat. The metal jacket has bent jacket ends defining the bed of adhesive and extends radially inwardly. The jacket ends face one another to define a space receiving the mat ends. The mat ends and the jacket ends extend substantially parallel.