Bag-type filter apparatus with venturi-supported air diffuser

In a filter apparatus of the type including a filtering chamber containing a plurality of filter bags having outlet ends communicating with respective tubular venturis extending into the filter bags, wherein a particulate-laden gas is directed into the filtering chamber and through the filter bags for discharge of the filtered gas through the venturis as the particulate material is retained on the exterior of the filter bags, and wherein the filter bags are cleaned by a periodic reverse flow of jets of air into the filter bags via the respective venturis, and further wherein each filter bag is supported by a tubular cage positioned within each filter bag, the combination therewith of

• a hollow open-ended and perforated air diffuser tube communicatively connected to, supported by and extending from each venturi within the respective tubular cage for receiving in each diffuser tube a reverse flowing jet of air via the respective venturi for diffusing and distributing air throughout the respective filter bag when a reverse flow of a jet of air is directed into the filter bag so as to more effectively clean the filter bag while also reducing excessive flexing of the filter bag and abrasive wear thereof to thereby provide a substantial increase in the efficiency of the filter apparatus and a significant increase in the life of each filter bag.