Abstract: An interchangeable ceramic filter assembly is provided, including a ceramic housing tube having at least one inlet, an outlet and a sidewall having an outer surface and an inner surface defining a central chamber. The filter assembly also includes a ceramic filter positioned within the central chamber that provides a barrier between the inlet and the outlet of the ceramic housing tube. The ceramic filter includes a sidewall, an inlet at least on a portion of the sidewall and an outlet. The outer surface of the sidewall faces the inner surface of the ceramic housing tube, and the inner surface of the sidewall defines a central portion of the ceramic filter. A contaminant concentration of molten metal present at the outlet of the ceramic housing tube is less than a contaminant concentration of molten metal present at the inlet of the ceramic housing tube.