Importance

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Abstract

An air filter, particularly adapted for use in internal combustion engines, eliminates the necessity of discarding the entire air filter when the filter element becomes clogged to the extent that its efficiency is reduced below acceptable levels. The air filter of the invention incorporates a readily removable and replaceable filter element disclosed in a preferred embodiment as an inexpensive length of paper, accordion pleated in a manner to permit it to be folded into a highly compact product until ready for use. In use, the element is extended to partially open the pleats or folds, providing maximum filter area. The element in use is confined in a hollow annular assembly composed of confronting rings preferably of neoprene rubber or its equivalent, and further composed of foraminous retaining elements extending between the rings. Replacement of a filter element is readily achieved by removal of one of the rings, providing access to the filter element chamber. For maximum filtering efficiency, soft, resilient cushions are provided on the confronting faces of the support rings, in which the edges of the filter element become lightly embedded to provide an effective seal along said edges.

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First Claim