Orifice-defining entry plate with support brace for filtration device

A filter unit for use with a filtrating fluid flow system, the filter unit configured to receive a flow of a fluid containing particulate matter, the filter unit defining a fluid flow zone, the filter unit including a fluid entrance for the fluid at a first end of the fluid flow zone, the filter unit comprising:

• a filter structure comprising a fluid-permeable filter material configured to at least partially filter the particulate matter from the flow of fluid;
• an entry plate comprising a generally nonporous material, the entry plate located proximate the filter unit entrance and mounted upstream relative to the filter structure, the entry plate and the filter structure together defining a fluid cavity within the filter unit, the entry plate having at least one orifice defined therein through which the flow of fluid can pass into the fluid cavity;
• and
• a brace extending rearwardly from the entry plate, the brace contacting and supporting at least a portion of the filter structure, the brace defining an edge dividing the at least one orifice to permit contact between the flow of fluid and the edge of the brace in the fluid cavity, the edge formed by opposing sides of the brace, each of the opposing sides is open to respective divided portions of the fluid cavity and configured to interact with the flow of fluid subsequent to contact between the edge and the flow of fluid.