Abstract: A fluid filtering apparatus and method may include keyed components to ensure that a correct filter element is being installed into a filter base, and to automatically actuate a fluid valve as the filter element is rotated into place on the base. Tool-less replacement of the element is provided. An embodiment of the element may include inner and outer substantially tubular-shaped media packs disposed about an axis, with one end of each of the inner and outer media packs being attached to an end cap of the element in a manner defining a fluid flow space between the inner and outer media packs for receiving a flow of fluid directed in parallel through the inner and outer media packs. A housing of the filter apparatus may include a flow tube configured to fit into the space between the inner and outer media packs.

Abstract: The invention comprises a fluid filter for separating contaminants from a liquid. The filter comprises a cylindrical body, a retainer, and a ring. The cylindrical body comprises an aperture disposed therethrough, a filter material for filtering the contaminants from the liquid, and an end cap portion. The retainer is coupled to the end cap portion, and the ring is disposed at least partially between the end cap portion and the retainer. A method for constructing such a filter is also disclosed.

Abstract: A disposable filter cartridge, in which the entire filter cartridge is disposable. The filter cartridge includes a tubular filter element substantially permanently retained to a lid such that the filter element cannot be removed from the lid without extreme force. The filter element includes a ring of filter media having ends potted in cup shaped end caps. The lid includes a central hub that is inserted through the opening in on of the end caps and ultrasonically deformed or flared radially outward to provide a lip that engages the top end cap for axial retention. The filter element is free floating and can be moved or tilted a small degree axially and can also be freely rotated relative to the lid.

Abstract: A disposable filter cartridge, in which the entire filter cartridge is disposable. The filter cartridge includes a tubular filter element substantially permanently retained to a lid such that the filter element cannot be removed from the lid without extreme force. The filter element includes a ring of filter media having ends potted in cup shaped end caps. The lid includes a central hub that is inserted through the opening in on of the end caps and ultrasonically deformed or flared radially outward to provide a lip that engages the top end cap for axial retention. The filter element is free floating and can be moved or tilted a small degree axially and can also be freely rotated relative to the lid.