Abstract: A non-metallic filter assembly including a non-metallic canister having a closed end, an open end, and defining a hollow. A non-metallic bottom assembly is mounted on the open end of the canister and a non-metallic element assembly is disposed within the hollow of the canister. The element assembly includes a pleated media having a first end and a second end, each of which is sealed along an interior surface of each of the ends. Alternatively, each of first and second ends may be sealed by fixing the ends in a mold. The bottom assembly includes an integrally formed center tube which extends into the hollow of the canister and about which the pleated media is disposed. The closed end of the canister includes radially extending, spaced-apart ribs projecting into the hollow and supporting the second end of element assembly.

Abstract: A filter manufacturing process includes the steps of dispensing an adhesive including an RF receptive material, and arranging the adhesive between an end disc and a filter media. The adhesive is exposed to RF waves excite the RF receptive material, which generates heat to cure the adhesive. The adhesive need only be exposed to the RF waves for several seconds. As a result, the filter media may be fully cured during the early processing stages. In one example, the adhesive is a vinyl adhesive plastisol. The filter media and end disc are passed through a curing tunnel in which an RF transmitter is arranged proximate to the adhesive to emit RF waves to excite the RF receptive material.