Abstract: A filter assembly used in combination with an extruder producing a stream of pressurized molten plastic has an inlet plate formed with a Y-shaped inlet passage having a substantially circular-section upstream end adapted to receive the stream of pressurized molten plastic from the extruder, The inlet passage branches downstream of its upstream end and has a pair of downstream ends opening at substantially circular downstream ports. An outlet plate fixed immediately downstream of the inlet plate is formed with a Y-shaped outlet passage having a substantially circular-section downstream end, The outlet passage is branched symmetrically to the inlet passage upstream of its downstream end and has a pair of upstream ends opening at substantially circular upstream ports aligned with the downstream ports.