Abstract: A repeatedly regeneratable flow-through filter device using a body of reticulated hydrophobic oleophilic synthetic foam for separating oil from water and capable of withstanding high flow pressures without precompression, while being readily compressed mechanically numerous times to the high degree necessary to express oil accumulating on the strands and nodes of the foam material. Support is provided against collapse or precompression under the forces of flow acting on the compressible filter body provided across its flow cross-sectional area and at all desired levels of depth inwardly from the upstream face by inserting lengths of flexible cord of synthetic material at a plurality of distributed locations with the cord precoated with liquid adhesive so as to form bonds at the numerous contact points thereof with the strands and nodes of the foam matrix and so as to transmit the load forces from such bonding points through the cords to an upstream face support screen or grid.