Abstract: A self-cleaning, back-washable filter apparatus and method for use with a pumping apparatus which is at least partially immersed in fluid. The filter apparatus may comprise a vibration device that is powered by a flow of fluid. A method for filtering a flow of fluid is also disclosed, comprising vibrating a filter by applying a flow of fluid to the filter.

Abstract: A self-cleaning, back-washable filter apparatus and method for use with a pumping apparatus which is at least partially immersed in fluid. A sediment removal system is disclosed for removing sediment from around a filter apparatus. The sediment removal system comprises a plurality of venturi jets configured to force sediment particles through a discharge line and away from the inlet to a filter apparatus. A filtering system is configured to direct a flow of fluid generally parallel to the surface of the filter, which may be a cross-flow filter, to prevent clogging or fouling. A method for filtering a flow of fluid comprises directing a flow of fluid generally parallel to the surface of a filter to prevent clogging or fouling of the filter. A method for filtering a flow of fluid is also disclosed, comprising vibrating a filter by applying a flow of fluid to the filter.

Abstract: A self-cleaning, back-washable filter apparatus and method for use with a pumping apparatus which is lowered into a well casing. The filter apparatus includes a filter basket having a manifold with several tubes extending therefrom. A filter sock encases at least a portion of the filter basket to block sand or other solid particles from entry into the pump intake. Pressurized gas or fluid is directed to the manifold and then through perforations or jets distributed along the length of the tubes. Bursts of the pressurized gas are directed from the perforations or jets to the interior of the filter apparatus and then sprayed from the perforations or jets in an outwardly direction against interior surfaces of the filter sock. Air or fluid bursts from the perforations impinge upon the interior surfaces of the filter sock and dislodge or expel entrapped particulate material.

Abstract: A self-cleaning, back-washable filter apparatus and method for use with a pumping apparatus which is lowered into a well casing. The filter apparatus includes a filter basket having a manifold with several tubes extending therefrom. A filter sock encases at least a portion of the filter basket to block sand or other solid particles from entry into the pump intake. Pressurized gas or fluid is directed to the manifold and then through perforations or jets distributed along the length of the tubes. Bursts of the pressurized gas are directed from the perforations or jets to the interior of the filter apparatus and then sprayed from the perforations or jets in an outwardly direction against interior surfaces of the filter sock. Air or fluid bursts from the perforations impinge upon the interior surfaces of the filter sock and dislodge or expel entrapped particulate material.

Abstract: A self-cleaning, back-washable filter apparatus and method for use with a pumping apparatus which is lowered into a well casing. The filter apparatus includes a filter basket having a manifold with several tubes extending therefrom. A filter sock encases at least a portion of the filter basket to block sand or other solid particles from entry into the pump intake. Pressurized gas or fluid is directed to the manifold and then through perforations or jets distributed along the length of the tubes. Bursts of the pressurized gas are directed from the perforations or jets to the interior of the filter apparatus and then sprayed from the perforations or jets in an outwardly direction against interior surfaces of the filter sock. Air or fluid bursts from the perforations impinge upon the interior surfaces of the filter sock and dislodge or expel entrapped particulate material.