Abstract: A filter element according to the present disclosure includes a plurality of longitudinally extending pleats including outwardly radiating primary pleats and inwardly radiating secondary pleats, with at least one secondary pleat positioned between two adjacent primary pleats. Each primary pleat has a predetermined radial height, and each secondary pleat has a radial height that is less than the radial height of each primary pleat and different from the radial height of at least one other secondary pleat. A filter element according to the present disclosure provides greater filter area, an increased overall filter density, and access to more radial flow paths at the outer diameter of the filter element.

Abstract: A method for retrieving excess pharmaceutical process fluid from the hold-up volume of a primary fluid filtration device. The hold-up volume is the volume of excess process fluid which accumulates in the bottom of the filter housing below the outlet opening thereof. Because it is considered valuable, the excess pharmaceutical process fluid is retrieved from the lower housing (22) via a drainage port (23) formed therein below the level of the outlet. The excess process fluid is then filtered in a supplemental filtration device (100) that is connected to the drainage port. The supplemental filtration device has a smaller volumetric capacity than the capacity of the primary fluid filtration device.

Abstract: A fluid filtration device is disclosed which includes a capsule housing having an upper housing portion defining an axial fluid inlet and a lower housing portion defining an axial fluid outlet, a filter assembly including an elongated mounting post and a plurality of filtration cells supported on the mounting post in axially spaced apart relationship, and structure operatively associated with the mounting post and the lower housing portion for effectuating axial compression of the filtration cells relative to the mounting post when the mounting post is engaged in the lower housing portion during assembly.