Abstract: A filter element comprises a pleated metal fiber fleece which is pleated according to pleating lines, providing an edge with pleat openings to be closed to make gas flowing through the metal fiber fleece. The filter element comprises at least two flanks, each of these flanks comprises a ceramic plate. The metal fiber fleece is mounted between the ceramic plates of both flanks, while flanks exercising a clamping force on the edges of the metal fiber fleece in a direction essentially parallel to the pleating lines, meanwhile closing the pleat openings.