Oil filter assembly with support for removable planar filter

Abstract

A filter assembly includes a base and cover member which together enclose a planar filter element. Each of the base and cover members has a planar face with a central overpressure opening for an overpressure valve, and a radially-extending channel extending from a port on the side of the base or cover member radially inward to the central overpressure opening. The channel is open along the surface of the planar face. According to a first embodiment, a plurality of radially-extending ribs are disposed in even, spaced-apart relation around the planar surface. The ribs define radial fluid flow paths for even distribution of fluid across the planar face, as well as support a surface of the planar filter member. According to one aspect of this embodiment, a central support rib is suspended along the open side of the channel, and is attached at its radially outer end to an outer annular frame, and at its radially inner end to a ring surrounding the central opening. One or more support trusses intersect the central support rib to add rigidity and strength to the rib. According to another aspect, one or more trusses extend substantially perpendicular to the radial channel for support of the filter element along the channel. According to another embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of cylindrical posts extend outwardly from the planar surface to provide fluid flow paths across the planar surface and for support of the filter element. One or more of the posts are disposed along the side edges of the radial channel or a central rib is provided along the channel for support of the filter element along the channel.