CN116234624A - Air filter with water separation function - Google Patents

Abstract

The fluid filtration system includes a shell-like housing having a first cavity and a second cavity, the first cavity being upstream of the second cavity. The fluid filtration system further includes a housing closure configured to form a sealing engagement with the shell-like housing. The fluid filtration system further includes a filter element removably coupled to the shell-like housing and positioned within the second cavity. The filter element includes a first end cap, a second end cap, a media pack extending between and coupled to both the first end cap and the second end cap, and a hydrophobic mesh coupled to the second end cap. The hydrophobic mesh is configured to prevent moisture from flowing out of the filter element and downstream of the filter element.

Description

Air filter with water separation function

Cross-reference to related patent applications

The present application claims the rights and priority of indian provisional patent application No. 202041043381 filed on 6 th 10 th 2020 and indian provisional patent application No. 202041054207 filed on 14 12 th 2020. The contents of these applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Background

The present disclosure relates generally to fluid filtration systems. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to air filtration systems operating in a humid environment.

SUMMARY

At least one embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a filter assembly. The filter assembly includes a housing and a filter element. The housing includes a housing body and a service cover (service cover). The housing body defines an interior volume, an inlet port, and an outlet port. The service cover is movable relative to the housing body to provide access to the interior volume. The service cover includes a sump (water collection sump) that is at least partially axially aligned with the inlet port when the service cover is mounted to the housing body. The filter element is removably coupled to the housing body and disposed within the interior volume.

At least one embodiment relates to a fluid filtration system. The fluid filtration system includes a shell-like housing, a housing closure, and a filter element. The housing closure is configured to form a sealing engagement with the shell-like housing. The housing closure includes a drain opening extending therethrough and configured to selectively urge a flow of liquid out of the shell-like housing. The filter element is removably coupled to the shell-like housing and includes a first end cap, a second end cap downstream of the first end cap, a media pack, and a hydrophobic mesh. The media pack includes filter media extending between the first end cap and the second end cap. The hydrophobic mesh is coupled to one of the first end cap and the second end cap and is configured to prevent moisture from flowing out of the shell-like housing.

Another embodiment relates to a filter element. The filter element includes a media pack, a first end cap, a second end cap, and a hydrophobic mesh. A media Bao Xianding first and second ends. The first end cap is coupled to the first end and the second end cap is coupled to the second end such that the second end cap is downstream of the first end. The second end cap includes a sealing member configured to form a sealing engagement with the shell-like housing. The filter element further includes a hydrophobic mesh extending across the second end and configured to prevent moisture from flowing downstream of the media pack.

This summary is illustrative only and should not be considered limiting.

Brief Description of Drawings

The present disclosure will become more fully understood from the detailed description given below, and the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example fluid filtration system.

Fig. 2 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the fluid filtration system of fig. 1.

Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a filter element for use in a fluid filtration system (e.g., the fluid filtration system of fig. 1).

Fig. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the filter element of fig. 3.

Fig. 5 is a top view of the filter element of fig. 1.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another example filter assembly.

Fig. 7 is a partial perspective view of the filter assembly of fig. 6.

Fig. 8 is a side cross-sectional view of a filter assembly according to another embodiment.

Fig. 9 is a side cross-sectional view of a filter assembly according to another embodiment.

Fig. 10 is a top perspective view of a service cover for the filter assembly of fig. 9.

Fig. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of a filter assembly according to another embodiment.

Fig. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of a filter assembly according to another embodiment.

Fig. 13 is a top perspective view of a service cover for a filter assembly according to another embodiment.

Fig. 14 is a top perspective view of a service cover for a filter assembly according to yet another embodiment.

Throughout the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like numerals generally identify like elements unless context indicates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and form part of this disclosure.

Detailed Description

Embodiments described herein relate generally to an air filter assembly for an internal combustion engine system. As the described concepts are not limited to any particular implementation, the various concepts introduced above and discussed in more detail below may be implemented in any of a variety of ways. Examples of specific implementations and applications are provided primarily for illustrative purposes.

Air filtration systems are used to filter particulate matter (e.g., dirt, oil, and/or contaminants) from an incoming air stream and to supply the filtered air to an internal combustion engine. The filtration system may include a filter assembly (e.g., an air cleaner, etc.) that includes a removable filter element made of pleated media and/or corrugated media. The filter assembly may be disposed on or at various locations within the vehicle body (e.g., chassis). In some embodiments, the filter assembly may be positioned near the wheel well or at another location that is prone to drawing water along the vehicle body. In these cases, the filter assembly may be exposed to water in a rainy environment or when the street is submerged, which may contaminate the fresh air stream and increase the risk of water being drawn into the engine. These problems are exacerbated in configurations that do not include a precleaner or water separation device upstream of the filter assembly (e.g., within other portions of the air induction system). The precleaner and water separation device also increase the restriction on the air filtration system, which can reduce engine performance.

The present application relates generally to systems for separating and removing water within a filter assembly. In particular, the present application relates to a filter assembly comprising a sump integrally formed into a service cover of the filter assembly. The filter assembly includes a two-piece housing (two-piece housing) having a housing body and a service cover. The housing body defines an enclosed interior volume of the housing and inlet and outlet ports fluidly coupled to the interior volume. When the service cover is mounted to the housing body, a portion of the sump is disposed below (axially aligned with) the inlet port. Fresh air entering the inlet port is directed to the sump, which aids in removing water from the incoming air stream by inertial separation. Among other benefits, the sump allows for separation and removal of water from within the filter assembly, which may substantially eliminate the need for other pre-separation equipment upstream of the inlet port (e.g., such as vortex tubes, breather tubes, and/or louvered pre-cleaners).

Before turning to the drawings, which illustrate certain exemplary embodiments in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the specification or illustrated in the drawings. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a first example fluid filtration system, shown as system 100. The system 100 may be used to filter fluid provided to an internal combustion engine. The fluid may be, for example, air or a similar gaseous substance. The system 100 may be mounted to a vehicle chassis. In other embodiments, the system 100 is configured for mounting to an engine.

As shown in fig. 1, the system 100 includes a shell-like housing (e.g., housing body) 200 and a housing closure (e.g., service cover) 202. The housing closure 202 is removably coupled to the shell-like housing 200 such that an operator may remove the housing closure 202 to repair the interior of the shell-like housing 200. The housing closure 202 may be coupled to the shell-like housing 200 using one of a latch, a fastener, an adhesive, or the like.

The shell housing 200 includes an inlet 204 and an outlet 206. The inlet 204 is located upstream of the outlet 206. Inlet 204 delivers the flow of fluid directly or indirectly to the engine. The outlet 206 discharges a stream of filtered fluid.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a cross-sectional view of the system 100 is shown. The system 100 includes a first cavity 210 and a second cavity 212, the second cavity 212 being in fluid communication with the first cavity 210. The first cavity 210 includes an inlet 204 and the second cavity 212 includes an outlet 206. In some embodiments, outlet 206 delivers the filtered fluid directly or indirectly to the engine. The second cavity 212 is positioned downstream of the first cavity 210. The shell housing 200 may be formed from a single body including both the first cavity 210 and the second cavity 212, the shell housing 200 being formed from casting, milling, die casting, additive manufacturing, or the like. The housing closure 202 forms a sealing engagement with the shell-like housing 200 such that a substantially water-tight and/or air-tight seal is formed between the shell-like housing 200 and the housing closure 202. The housing closure 202 may include a drain opening 213 (e.g., opening, hole, valve, etc.), the drain opening 213 extending through the housing closure 202 and configured to facilitate a flow of fluid out of the shell-like housing 200. In some embodiments, the drain opening 213 is a one-way valve configured to prevent the flow of fluid into the shell-like housing 200 via the drain opening 213, but configured to facilitate the flow of fluid or liquid (e.g., moisture, condensate, water vapor, etc.) out of the shell-like housing 200. The drain opening 213 is in fluid communication with the second cavity 212. The housing closure 202 may also include a second drain opening 215 in fluid communication with the first cavity 210.

The second cavity 212 defines a second cavity inlet 214 and a second cavity outlet 216. The second cavity outlet 216 is in fluid communication with the outlet 206. The second cavity inlet 214 is located upstream of the second cavity outlet 216. The second cavity 212 facilitates fluid flow from the second cavity inlet 214 to the second cavity outlet 216. The second cavity 212 may define a substantially cylindrical cross-section configured to receive a substantially cylindrical filter element. In some embodiments, the second cavity 212 defines a racetrack cross-section (e.g., two semicircles separated by a straight line) and is configured to receive a filter element having a racetrack cross-section. In some embodiments, the second cavity 212 defines a substantially oval cross-section and is configured to receive a filter element having a substantially oval cross-section.

The filter element 220 is removably positioned within the second cavity 212. In some embodiments, the filter element 220 is removably coupled to the shell housing 200, such as by fasteners, latches, or friction members (friction), such that the filter element 220 may be removed from the shell housing 200 and replaced with a new filter element.

The filter element 220 is disposed within the second cavity 212 of the shell housing 200 such that a central longitudinal axis 224 of the second cavity 212 extends through the filter element 220. The filter element 220 may be cylindrically shaped and may include a cylindrically shaped media pack 226 wrapped around an element core 228. In some embodiments, the cross-section of the filter element 220 may define a substantially circular, racetrack-shaped, oblong (e.g., two curved ends joined by two straight ends), oval, etc. shape. In some embodiments, the cross-section of media pack 226 defines a substantially circular, racetrack, oblong, oval, etc. shape. The cross-sectional shape of the element core 228 may affect the cross-section of the media pack. For example, if element core 228 defines an oval cross-section, media pack 226 may define a similar oval cross-section. Media pack 226 includes filter media configured to filter particulate matter from fluid flowing therethrough, thereby producing filtered fluid (e.g., cleaning fluid). The filter media may be pleated or formed into another desired shape to increase the flow area through the media pack 226 or otherwise alter the particulate removal efficiency of the filter element 220. According to one embodiment, media pack 226 may include a variety of different types of filter media including, but not limited to, pleated media, corrugated media, tetrahedral media, or variants thereof (e.g., any of the filter media disclosed in PCT application No. PCT/US 2019/065259, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference). U.S. patent No. 8,397,920, entitled "PLEATED FILTER ELEMENT WITH TAPERING BEND line pleated filter element" filed by Moy et al at 10.14 2011 and issued at 3.19 of 2013, assigned to Cummins Filtering IP inc, describes tetrahedral filter media that media pack 226 may include, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes. Some configurations of tetrahedral filtration media may include a plurality of inlet tetrahedral flow channels and a plurality of outlet tetrahedral flow channels. The inlet tetrahedra merge into the central portion of the tetrahedral filter media, allowing air to flow axially across (axial cross-flow) between the inlet tetrahedral channels before the air passes through the tetrahedral filter media. Such an arrangement provides additional dust loading on the upstream side of the media, which increases the filtration capacity of the filter media. In some embodiments, the filter media comprises a porous material having a predetermined pore size, a paper-based filter media, a fiber-based filter media, a foam-based filter media, and the like. The filter element 220 may be arranged as an axial flow filter element (axial-flow filter element) having a dirty side 230 and a clean side 232. The dirty side 230 is upstream of the clean side 232. Specifically, the filter element 220 is configured to filter fluid flowing axially through the filter element 220 from the dirty side 230 to the clean side 232.

Referring to fig. 3, a perspective view of the filter element 220 is shown. The filter element 220 includes a first end 240 (e.g., a dirty end) and a second end 242 (e.g., a clean end). A first end cap 245 is coupled to the first end 240 and a second end cap 249 is coupled to the second end 242. In some embodiments, both the first end cap 245 and the second end cap 249 are open end caps. In some embodiments, one of the first end cap 245 and the second end cap 249 is a closed end cap. Media pack 226 (shown in fig. 5) and element core 228 extend between first end 240 and second end 242. In some embodiments, media pack 226 is surrounded by an outer shell 227 (e.g., a housing, shell, exocarpium (exokeleton), etc.). The housing 227 extends between a first end 240 and a second end 242 and protects the media pack 226 from damage. In some embodiments, the housing 227 is encapsulated into a first end cap 245 and a second end cap 249. A sealing member 244 is coupled to the filter element 220 proximate the second end 242. The sealing member 244 is configured to form a sealing engagement with the shell housing 200. The sealing member 244 extends around the perimeter of the second end 242 (e.g., circumferentially around the second end 242) and defines a generally annular body. In some embodiments, sealing member 244 is coupled to second end cap 249, and second end cap 249 is coupled to media pack 226 proximate second end 242. In some embodiments, the sealing member 244 is positioned to form a radial seal against the inner surface of the shell housing 200. In some embodiments, the sealing member 244 is positioned to form an axial seal against the shell housing 200. For example, when the housing closure 202 is coupled to the shell-like housing 200, a portion of the housing closure 202 may engage a portion of the filter element 220 (e.g., the first end cap 245). The interaction between the housing closure 202 and the filter element 220 may compress the filter element 220, and thus the sealing member 244, against an internal feature (e.g., an inner surface, a flange, etc.) of the shell-like housing 200 to form one of an axial seal or a radial seal.

The filter element 220 also includes a hydrophobic mesh 246 positioned on the second end 242 (e.g., around, over, etc. the second end 242). The hydrophobic mesh 246 is configured to resist or prevent moisture (e.g., water) and debris from passing through the media pack 226 while allowing air and other gaseous elements to pass through the media pack 226. In other words, the hydrophobic mesh 246 prevents or inhibits moisture from passing downstream of the filter element 220. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic mesh 246 is formed from a polymer woven mesh (woven mesh) with an optional surface coating. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic mesh 246 is a polymeric mesh fabric (mesh fabric). In some embodiments, the hydrophobic mesh 246 is a woven fabric (woven fabric). For example, the hydrophobic mesh 246 may be woven in various weave patterns (e.g., satin weave (satin weave), sateen weave (sateen weave), multi-arm weave (dobby weave), and bi-directional weave (bi-directional weave)). In some embodiments, the hydrophobic mesh 246 is a non-woven fabric. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic mesh 246 is formed of a textile (textile) such as cotton, wool, and nylon, and is treated with a hydrophobic surface treatment. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic mesh 246 is formed from polymeric strands (e.g., high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, nylon, polyester, etc.) and woven into a fabric. The polymer thread may be a monofilament thread. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic mesh 246 is formed of a material having a hydrophobic coating (such as polytetrafluoroethylene (e.g., PTFE, teflon @ ^TM ) Coating) is formed of a woven stainless steel mesh. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic mesh 246 is a screen (screen), such as an extruded screen or an extruded mesh. The hydrophobic mesh 246 may be formed by perforating a material to form a desired pore structure. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic mesh 246 is formed by perforating a material and then expanding (e.g., stretching) the material to form the desired pore size. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic mesh 246 covers the entire second end 242. The hydrophobic mesh 246 may be coupled to the sealing member 244.

In some embodiments, filter element 220 includes a support structure 248 (in the form of a mesh in fig. 3), which support structure 248 extends across second end 242 and is interposed between hydrophobic mesh 246 and media pack 226. The support structure 248 may be formed of plastic, metal, wood, polymer, or the like. The support structure 248 is formed of thin structures that extend perpendicularly relative to each other, forming a lattice structure (e.g., an open frame formed of strips of material in a cross-pattern). In some embodiments, the support structure 248 is formed from a thin structure that extends radially away from the central longitudinal axis 224 and toward the periphery of the end cap 245. In some embodiments, the support structures 248 define a pattern of broken ribs (broken rib pattern) such that fluid is allowed to move laterally between the pattern of broken ribs. For example, the thin structure defining the support structure 248 may include apertures that allow fluid to pass laterally (e.g., in a direction substantially perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis 224). In some embodiments, the hydrophobic mesh 246 is coupled to a support structure 248. The support structure 248 is configured to allow fluid, air, and debris to pass therethrough.

In some embodiments, the first end 240 includes a support structure 250 (also in the form of a grid in certain embodiments) similar to the support structure 248. The first end 240 also includes a first end cap 245 similar to the second end cap 249. The support structure 250 may be coupled to the first end 240 with fasteners, adhesives, or the like. In some embodiments, a hydrophobic mesh (e.g., hydrophobic mesh 246) is coupled to both the first end 240 and the second end 242. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic mesh 246 is coupled to the first end 240 and not to the second end 242.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a secondary filter element downstream of the filter element 220. The secondary filter element may include a hydrophobic mesh 246 on one or both of the dirty side and the clean side. In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a three stage filter element positioned upstream of the filter element 220. The tertiary filter element may include a hydrophobic mesh 246 on one or both of the dirty side and the clean side. In some embodiments, for example with inside-out filters and outside-in filters, the hydrophobic mesh 246 is wrapped circumferentially around the media pack 226 and encapsulated into the first and second end caps 245, 249.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a top view of the second end 242 of the filter element 220 is shown. The filter element 220 is shown as having a substantially racetrack cross-section. Similarly, the hydrophobic mesh 246 defines a substantially racetrack-shaped surface area. The perimeter of the hydrophobic mesh 246 is coupled to the sealing member 244. The support structure 248 is disposed between the hydrophobic mesh 246 and the media pack 226. Support structure 248 includes a narrow support member that extends from a first point of sealing member 244 to a second point of sealing member 244. The hydrophobic mesh 246 may be coupled to a support structure 248 and to a plurality of points 252 surrounding the support structure 248. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic mesh 246 is coupled to the media pack 226 and not coupled to the sealing member 244. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic mesh 246 is disposed between the media pack 226 and the support structure 248, and the hydrophobic mesh 246 is coupled to the media pack 226. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic mesh 246 is coupled to the housing 227 near the second end 242. In some embodiments, when filter element 220 is positioned within shell housing 200, hydrophobic mesh 246 is separate from filter element 220 and positioned downstream of filter element 220. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic mesh 246 is coupled to the shell housing 200 downstream of the filter element 220.

In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of media pack 226 is different than the cross-sectional shape of sealing member 244. For example, the media pack 226 may define a cross-section having a racetrack shape, while the sealing member 244 defines a cross-section having an oval shape (as shown in fig. 3). Similarly, in some embodiments, media pack 226 may define a cross-section having an oblong shape, while sealing member 244 may define a cross-section having a racetrack shape. Each of the sealing member 244, the end cap 245, the housing 227, the media pack 226, the hydrophobic mesh 246, and the end cap 249 may define different cross-sectional shapes. In some embodiments, the second cavity 212 defines a different cross-sectional shape between the second cavity inlet 214 and the second cavity outlet 216. Similarly, the filter element 220 may define different cross-sectional shapes between the first end 240 and the second end 242.

Referring now to fig. 6 and 7, a filter assembly 300 according to another example embodiment is shown. The filter assembly 300 includes a housing 400 (e.g., a shell, etc.), the housing 400 including a housing body 402 and a service cover 404. The housing body 402 defines an interior volume 406, the interior volume 406 being sized to receive the replaceable air filter element 500 therein. The housing body 402 also defines an inlet port 408 and an outlet port 410, the inlet port 408 and the outlet port 410 being fluidly coupled to the interior volume 406 for directing airflow into and out of the interior volume 406, respectively. The inlet port 408 and the outlet port 410 are both disposed on the upper end of the housing body 402 and are axially offset from each other. The service cover 404 is movable relative to the housing body 402 to provide access to the interior volume 406. In one embodiment, the service cover 404 is hingedly (e.g., rotatably) coupled to the housing body 402 and is rotatable between an open position (where a user may access the interior volume 406 through an opening in the housing body 402) and a closed position (where access to the interior volume 406 is prevented). In another embodiment, the service cover 404 is removably (e.g., detachably) coupled to the housing body 402 and may be separated from the housing body 402 to gain access to the interior volume 406. The service cover 404 may be secured to the housing body 402 in a closed (e.g., installed) position using clips, latches, or another suitable fastener.

As shown in fig. 7, the filter element 500 is removably mounted into the housing body 402 near the outlet port 410. In one embodiment, the filter element 500 is sealingly engaged with the housing body 402 near the outlet port 410. Filter element 500 includes a media pack 502, a first (e.g., upper) end cap 504, and a second (e.g., lower) end cap 506. First end cap 504 is coupled to media pack 502 at an upper end of media pack 502. Second end cap 506 is coupled to media pack 502 at a lower end of media pack 502 (e.g., at an axial end of media pack 502 opposite first end cap 504). First end cap 504 and second end cap 506 may be frames that support media pack 502 and ensure a seal between filter element 500 and housing body 402. First end cap 504 and second end cap 506 may be formed of plastic (e.g., rigid polyurethane (hard polyurethane), etc.), metal, or another suitable material. Media pack 502 may include any fibrous or porous media for removing solid particulates from an incoming air stream. The media may include paper-based filter media, fiber-based filter media, foam-based filter media, and the like. In one embodiment, media pack 502 comprises pleated filter media. For example, the media pack 502 may be defined by a plurality of intersecting tetrahedral structures (interdigitated tetrahedral form) extending from the upstream and downstream ends of the media pack 502. Examples of tetrahedral structures are described in detail in international patent publication No. PCT/US2019/039876, filed on 28 th 6 th 2019, and U.S. patent No. 8,397,920, filed on 14 th 10 th 2011, the entire disclosures of both of which are hereby incorporated by reference. In embodiments, the media pack 502 may include another form of pleated media or pleated media shape.

The service cover 404 is coupled to an opening at a lower end of the housing body 402 opposite the upper end. The housing body 402 and the service cover 404 together substantially enclose an interior volume 406. As shown in fig. 7, the service cover 404 defines a protrusion extending from an inner surface of the service cover 404 into the interior volume 406. The tab includes a ramp 412, the ramp 412 extending along a sidewall of the tab toward an inner surface of the service cover 404. The ramp 412 may be rounded (e.g., chamfered) along the lower edge of the protrusion. The radius of the fillet may be approximately equal to the height of the protrusion. In other embodiments, the radius of the rounded corners may be different. The ramp 412 facilitates, among other benefits, a transition of air flow from a substantially axial direction (e.g., a vertical direction as shown in fig. 7) of the inlet port 408 into the interior volume 406 to a horizontal direction across the interior volume 406 between the inlet port 408 and the outlet port 410. In some embodiments, the ramp 412 may reduce pressure loss on the filter assembly by about 8% or more. As shown in fig. 7, the service cover 404 further includes a plurality of support members extending upwardly from an inner surface of the service cover 404 toward the filter element 500. When the service cover 404 is mounted to the housing body 402, the upper end of each support member contacts the lower end of the filter element 500 to support the filter element in place within the housing 400 and to ensure that the filter element remains in sealing engagement with the housing body 402.

Referring now to fig. 8, a filter assembly 600 according to another example embodiment is shown. The filter assembly 600 is similar to the filter assembly 300 of fig. 6 and 7. The difference between the filter assembly 600 and the filter assembly 300 is that the filter assembly 600 includes a sump 714 integrated into the service cover 704. In one embodiment, the service cover 704 is a two-part design (two-part design) in which the sump 714 is a separate part that is connected to a second cover portion (e.g., a planar second cover portion that is connected to the housing body 702) to form the service cover 704. In another embodiment, the sump 714 is a separately accessible component from the service cover 704. In yet another embodiment, the sump 714 is integrally formed with the service cover 704 such that the sump 714 cannot be separated from the service cover 704. In yet another embodiment, the sump 714 is coupled to the housing body 702 separate from the service cover 704. The sump 714 includes a partition 716 (e.g., side wall, perimeter wall, etc.) extending upwardly from a lower wall (e.g., inner surface) of the service cover 704 and in a substantially vertical orientation relative to the lower wall. The partition 716 defines a recessed area 718, the recessed area 718 being at least partially axially aligned with the inlet port when the service cover 704 is mounted to the housing body 702. In other words, the inlet port defines a central axis and the recessed area 718 intersects the central axis when the service cover 704 is coupled to the housing body 702. As shown in fig. 8, the sump 714 is located directly below the inlet port 708 and the tube (extending upwardly from the inlet port 708) so that water entering from the inlet port 708 (and tube) can fall within the sump 714 and be separated from the main air flow to reduce intrusion of the overall water into the clean side of the filter assembly 600. In the embodiment of fig. 8, recessed region 718 is a substantially rectangular cavity. In other embodiments, the shape and/or size of the recessed region 718 may be different. The sump 714 also includes a drain (e.g., port, opening, etc.) disposed along a lower wall of the recessed region 718 and configured to allow separated water to exit the interior volume 706. The drain port may include a drain valve (e.g., check valve, one-way valve, solenoid valve, etc.) to selectively fluidly couple the interior volume to the environment surrounding the filter assembly 600. As shown in fig. 8, a portion 720 of the partition 716 separates the sump 714 from the area of the service cover 704 that is axially aligned with the filter element 500. The portion 720 of the partition 716 may also define a ramp 712, as described with reference to fig. 6 and 7.

As shown in fig. 8, air entering interior volume 706 from inlet port 708 moves axially (e.g., vertically as shown in fig. 8) downward toward sump 714 and then transitions to a lateral direction toward filter element 500. Water is separated from the main air stream due to its higher inertia (inertial separation) compared to air. The separated water is collected in a water collection sump 714.

The design and arrangement of the components described with reference to fig. 8 should not be considered limiting. Many alternatives and combinations are possible without departing from the inventive concepts disclosed herein. For example, fig. 9-13 illustrate examples of different structures that may be used for the service cover (e.g., the housing closure 202; the service covers 404, 704) and the housing body (e.g., the shell-like housing 200; the housing bodies 402, 702). Fig. 9 and 10 illustrate a housing body 902, the housing body 902 having an inlet tube 922 extending from an inlet port 908 and axially toward the service cover 904. An inlet tube 922 is disposed within the interior volume 706 of the housing body 902 and directs incoming air axially toward the sump 914 in the service cover 904 to improve separation of water from the incoming air. As shown in fig. 10, the contour of the baffle 916 matches the contour (e.g., shape) of the inlet tube 922. In other words, the baffle 916 extends at least partially laterally (e.g., horizontally, as shown in fig. 9) near the inlet tube 922 (e.g., along a portion of the baffle 916 aligned with the inlet tube 922) away from a first lateral end of the service cover 904 toward a second (e.g., opposite) lateral end of the service cover 904.

As shown in fig. 10, the sump 914 includes a plurality of baffles 924 disposed within the recessed area. The baffle 924 extends away from the lower wall 926 of the service cover 904 in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the lower wall 926. Baffle 924 reduces sloshing of any separated water in the recessed area, among other benefits. The water accumulated in the recessed area flows over the baffle 916 to a drain (e.g., port, opening, etc.) disposed along the drain floor 928 of the service cover 904 below the filter element 500. The drain opening may include a drain valve (e.g., check valve, one-way valve, solenoid valve, etc.) configured to allow water to drain from the interior volume 706. In other embodiments, the drain opening may be provided in the lower wall of the recessed area. As shown in fig. 10, the service cover 904 also includes a plurality of angled ribs 930 extending upwardly from the drain floor 928 to further reduce flow interactions between the air flow and water along the drain floor 928. In various embodiments, the arrangement of baffles 924 and ribs 930 may be different.

Fig. 11 shows a housing configuration in which housing body 1002 includes a bellmouth 1032 disposed at the outlet end of inlet pipe 1022. The flare 1032 reduces pressure loss at the transition between the inlet tube 1022 and the interior volume 706, among other benefits. In other embodiments, the design of the inlet tube 1022 may be different. For example, fig. 12 shows a housing body 1102 having a diffuser-shaped inlet tube 1122 with an inner diameter of the diffuser-shaped inlet tube 1122 at the outlet end of the inlet tube that is greater than the inner diameter at the inlet end of the inlet tube. The diameter of the inlet tube 1122 increases continuously from the inlet port 1108 toward the sump 1114 to further reduce pressure losses across the inlet tube 1122 and filter assemblies 300, 600.

The size and/or shape of the sump may also vary in various embodiments. For example, fig. 13 shows a repair cover 1204 in which the volume of the water collection trough 1214 is increased by extending a partition 1216 along a peripheral portion of the drain floor 1228 (e.g., along an outside edge of the drain floor in the region of the drain floor 1228, in a dead flow zone (dead flow zones) between the outer periphery of the filter element and the side wall of the housing body, in which the main air flow is not affected by the presence of the partition 1216).

Fig. 14 illustrates another example service cover 1304, the service cover 1304 including a plurality of drain openings (e.g., drain openings, ports, holes, etc.) including a first drain opening 1319 disposed in the sump 1314 along a lower wall of the recessed area 1318 and a second drain opening 1321 disposed along a drain floor 1328 of the service cover 1304 outside the sump 1314. As shown, first drain port 1319 and second drain port 1321 are centrally located along recessed area 1318 and drain floor 1328, respectively. In other embodiments, the location, size, and/or number of drain openings may be different. One or both of the first drain port 1319 and the second drain port 1321 may also include a drain valve to control the draining of water from the strainer assembly 300, 600.

As used herein with respect to a range of values, the terms "about," "substantially," and similar terms generally mean +/-10% of the disclosed value, unless otherwise specified. As used herein with respect to structural features (e.g., describing shape, size, orientation, direction, relative position, etc.), the terms "about," "substantially," and similar terms are intended to cover minor variations in structure that may result, for example, from a manufacturing or assembly process, and are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the presently disclosed subject matter pertains. Accordingly, these terms should be construed to indicate that insubstantial or insignificant modifications or variations to the described and claimed subject matter are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure described in the appended claims.

It should be noted that the term "exemplary" and variants thereof as used herein to describe embodiments are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to imply that such embodiments must be special or excellent examples).

The term "coupled" and variants thereof as used herein means that two members are directly or indirectly joined to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent or fixed) or movable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved by the two members being directly coupled to each other, by the two members being coupled to each other using a separate intervening member and any additional intervening members, or by the two members being coupled to each other using intervening members integrally formed as a single unitary body with one of the two members. If "coupled" or a variant thereof is modified by an additional term (e.g., directly coupled), the generic definition of "coupled" provided above is modified by the plain language meaning of the additional term (e.g., "directly coupled" means the joining of two members without any separate intervening members), resulting in a narrower definition than the generic definition of "coupled" provided above. Such coupling may be mechanical, electrical or fluid.

References herein to the location of elements (e.g., "top," "bottom," "above," "below") are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the drawings. It should be noted that the orientation of the various elements may be different according to other exemplary embodiments, and such variations are intended to be covered by this disclosure.

Claims (20)

1. A filter assembly, comprising:

a housing, the housing comprising:

a housing body defining an interior volume, an inlet port, and an outlet port;

a service cover movable relative to the housing body to provide access to the interior volume, the service cover having a sump at least partially axially aligned with the inlet port when the service cover is mounted to the housing body; and

a filter element disposed within the interior volume.

2. The filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the sump includes a partition defining a recessed area, a portion of the partition defining a ramp.

3. The filter assembly of claim 2, wherein the baffle separates the sump from an area of the service cover axially aligned with the filter element.

4. The filter assembly of claim 2, wherein the sump includes a plurality of baffles disposed within the recessed area, the plurality of baffles extending away from the lower wall of the service cover in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the lower wall.

5. The filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the housing body includes an inlet tube extending from the inlet port and toward the service cover.

6. The filter assembly of claim 5, wherein the housing body further comprises a flare disposed at an outlet end of the inlet tube.

7. The filter assembly of claim 5, wherein the inlet tube is a diffuser-shaped inlet tube having an inner diameter at an outlet end of the inlet tube that is greater than an inner diameter at an inlet end of the inlet tube.

8. The filter assembly of claim 5, wherein the sump includes a baffle defining a recessed area, the baffle extending at least partially laterally away from a first lateral end of the service cover toward a second lateral end of the service cover in a portion of the baffle aligned with the inlet tube.

9. The filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the sump is movable relative to other portions of the service cover.

10. The filter assembly of claim 1, further comprising a drain valve disposed in the sump.

11. The filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the service cover further comprises a drain floor that is axially aligned with the filter element when the service cover is mounted to the housing body, the filter assembly further comprising a drain valve disposed in the drain floor.

12. A fluid filtration system comprising:

a shell-like housing;

a housing closure configured to form a sealing engagement with the shell-like housing, the housing closure including a drain opening extending through the housing closure and configured to selectively promote liquid flow out of the shell-like housing;

a filter element removably coupled to the shell-like housing, the filter element comprising:

a first end cap;

a second end cap downstream of the first end cap;

a media pack comprising filter media extending between and coupled to both the first end cap and the second end cap; and

a hydrophobic mesh coupled to one of the first end cap and the second end cap and configured to prevent moisture from flowing out of the shell-like housing.

13. The fluid filtration system of claim 12, wherein:

the shell-like housing comprises a second cavity and a first cavity,

the first cavity is located upstream of the second cavity, and

the drain opening is in fluid communication with the second cavity.

14. The fluid filtration system of claim 13, wherein the filter element is positioned within the second cavity and the hydrophobic mesh is coupled to the second end cap.

15. The fluid filtration system of claim 13, wherein the first cavity has a smaller volume than the second cavity.

16. The fluid filtration system of claim 12, wherein the drain opening is axially aligned with the inlet of the shell-like housing.

17. The fluid filtration system of claim 12, wherein the housing closure is rotationally coupled to the shell-like housing, the housing closure including a bulkhead defining a recessed area aligned with the filter element when the filter element is positioned within the shell-like housing.

18. A filter element, comprising:

a media pack having a first end and a second end;

a first end cap coupled to the first end;

a second end cap coupled to the second end and positioned downstream of the first end, the second end cap comprising a sealing member configured to form a sealing engagement with the shell-like housing; and

a hydrophobic mesh extending across one of the first end and the second end, the hydrophobic mesh being configured to substantially prevent moisture from flowing downstream of the media pack.

19. The filter element of claim 18, further comprising a support structure coupled to one of the first end cap and the second end cap and extending through one of the first end and the second end, the support structure coupled to the hydrophobic mesh.

20. The filter element of claim 19, wherein the hydrophobic mesh is coupled to the second end cap such that the hydrophobic mesh substantially prevents water from entering the media pack.

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