Radial seal filter with multi-component housing

A three-component assembly for creating an annular seal groove defined by three sides and opening radially inwardly, said three-component assembly comprising:

• a first component constructed and arranged to provide an upper side of said annular seal groove;
• a second component constructed and arranged to provide a base of said annular seal groove, said second component being securely joined to said first component;
• and
• a third component constructed and arranged to provide a lower side of said annular groove, said third component being securely joined to said second component.

A fluid filter assembly for spin-on attachment to a mounting base, said fluid filter assembly comprising:

• fluid filter media;
• a plastic shell including a sidewall defining an open end and a hollow interior for receipt of said fluid filter media, said plastic shell further including an annular radial shelf adjacent said open end;
• an annular, threaded nutplate constructed and arranged for attachment to said mounting base, said threaded nutplate including a groove-side surface;
• a plastic weld ring securely joined to said threaded nutplate and to said plastic shell, said plastic weld ring including a radially inward, annular wall;
• an annular, elastomeric seal;
• and
• said annular radial shelf, said groove-side surface, and said radially inward, annular wall cooperating to define three sides of an annular seal groove that is constructed and arranged to receive said annular, elastomeric seal for sealing an interface between said fluid filter housing and said mounting base.

A fluid filter housing constructed and arranged for receipt of fluid filter media and attachment to a mounting base, said fluid filter housing comprising:

• a plastic shell including a sidewall defining an open end and a hollow interior for receipt of said fluid filter media, said plastic shell further including an annular radial shelf adjacent said open end;
• an annular, threaded nutplate constructed and arranged for attachment to said mounting base;
• a plastic weld ring securely joined to said threaded nutplate and to said plastic shell, said plastic weld ring including a radially inward, annular wall and a groove-side surface;
• and
• said annular radial shelf, said groove-side surface, and said radially inward, annular wall cooperating to define three sides of an annular seal groove that is constructed and arranged to receive an annular seal for sealing an interface between said fluid filter housing and said mounting base.