Break-away filter housing apparatus

Abstract

A disposable filter cup and stem assembly with a filter disc or membrane secured between the cup and the stem. A frangible filter cup disengagement strip is formed on the filter cup about an end adjacent the stem. The filter disc or membrane is secured in the assembly in close proximity to the disengagement strip. Force applied to the disengagement strip separates the filter cup from the stem to expose the top, upstream surface of the filter disc or membrane and to permit removal of the filter disc from the assembly in an intact, substantially horizontal position. A disposable filter capsule assembly formed with a frangible filter capsule disengagement strip encloses a filter disc or membrane and permits separation of the capsule into two sections so as to expose an upstream surface of the filter disc or membrane and to permit removal of the filter disc or membrane in an intact condition after fluid processing. Disposable filter capsules with capsule halves having mated snap-fit surfaces and optional O-ring or luer lock type sealing surfaces, permit access to enclosed filter discs or membranes after fluid processing. Upon separation of the filter capsule halves, the upstream surfaces of the enclosed filter discs or membranes are exposed and the discs or membranes are accessible for removal in intact condition. O-ring free media holders constructed with weld spots permit access to enclosed free media by disengaging the weld spots after fluid processing.