Abstract: Support membranes for filters are described that include a support sheet formed of a polymeric material and a continuous base section having opposed outer surfaces and spaced-apart ribs extending outwardly from at least one of the opposed outer surfaces. The spaced-apart ribs define continuous flow channels bound by the adjacent spaced-apart ribs. The ratio of the height of the ribs to the height of the continuous base ranges from about 2:1 to about 5:1. This relatively high aspect ratio of the ribs and the base layer increases the performance of the filter and reduces the cross-flow pressure drop of fluids filtered through the membrane.

Abstract: A device for slitting a tubular workpiece into strips includes radially disposed cutting members. The device may include a tapered infeed mandrel for maintaining tension on the tubular workpiece being slit and optionally an exit mandrel. In embodiments, the position of the radially disposed cutting members may be adjustable.

Abstract: A device for slitting a tubular workpiece into strips includes radially disposed cutting members. The device may include a tapered infeed mandrel for maintaining tension on the tubular workpiece being slit and optionally an exit mandrel. In embodiments, the position of the radially disposed cutting members may be adjustable.