Abstract: Disclosed herein is a filter assembly (10). The filter assembly (10) includes a filter cage (12) having a plurality of parallel longitudinally extending members (14) that are arranged in a circular or oval configuration and which define a longitudinal axis (16). Each of the longitudinal members (14) comprises either a single longitudinal member or a pair of abutting longitudinal members. A plurality of transverse members (18) extend generally inwardly from the longitudinal members (14). The transverse members (18) each have outer ends (18a) fixedly connected to a respective one of the longitudinal members (14). A plurality of groups of the transverse members (18) are provided at longitudinally spaced apart positions, with the outer ends (18a) of the transverse members (18) in each group being circumferentially spaced apart around the circular or oval configuration to define longitudinal spaces (100) therebetween.