Abstract: A fluid filter and a method for attaching same to a filter mount of an engine in sealing relation is provided. The fluid filter includes a filter media; a housing for the filter media; complimentary interengageable locking devices formed radially on the filter and filter mount for engaging the filter and the filter mount; and a seal positioned between the housing and the filter mount. The locking devices include either: a first set of circumferentially spaced flanges formed on the inner wall of the housing and a second set of circumferentially spaced flanges formed on the filter mount; or a plurality of bolts attached to the filter mount or a plate attached to the housing and a corresponding plurality of holes formed in the plate or filter mount, respectively. The sealing means includes an annular, O-ring positioned between the housing and the filter mount.

Abstract: A process for forming an improved deep drawn and ironed metal shell for use as a pressure vessel having selectively controlled wall thicknesses to impart additional strength to predetermined portions of the improved metal shell. A stepped mandrel is utilized in conjunction with at least one ironing die to fabricate the improved metal shell.

Abstract: A fluid sealing gasket device for a spin-on, throwaway filter having an annular sealing gasket with a groove of a particular shape in cross-section, the groove being formed circumferentially at the outer peripheral wall thereof; a substantially correspondingly shaped annular, metal reinforcing member positioned in and extending from the correspondingly shaped groove; and an annular gasket retaining channel formed in the filter end plate for retaining the reinforced sealing gasket therein. The gasket has a lower portion positioned in the retainer channel and an upper portion extending therefrom, with the annular groove and reinforcing member located in the upper portion of the gasket. Alternatively, the reinforcing member effectively fills a "void" when the gasket is molded therearound. This fluid sealing gasket device retains the gasket's structural integrity upon installation on the filter mount and during use when high fluid pressures are exerted on the gasket from the inside of the filter.

Abstract: An improved deep drawn and ironed metal shell for use as a pressure vessel having selectively controlled wall thicknesses to impart additional strength to predetermined portions of the improved metal shell. A stepped mandrel is utilized in conjunction with at least one ironing die to fabricate the improved metal shell.

Abstract: As exemplified by an automobile engine oil filter, the usual pleated filter paper is internally supported by an interpleated layer of high tear and tensile strength material which is substantially more flexible than the paper. With the ends of both layers anchored conventionally in the element's end caps rigidly held apart by the usual perforated center tube, the flexible material is subjected to a tensile stress when the paper attempts to move inwardly, the paper being thereby supported against rupturing or pleat tear. The flexible material thus functioning as a back-up layer for the paper, can be pretensioned to provide greater additional resistance to inward movement of the paper.