Filter assembly includng filter unit having deformable sealing end caps

A filter assembly comprising:

• (A) a rolled filter element having first and second ends;
• (B) first and second end caps sealed on said first and second ends of said rolled filter element;
• (C) a reinforcing tape wrap wound around said rolled filter element;
• (D) a filter housing for supporting said rolled filter element;
• and
• (E) means for forming a fluid-tight connection between each of said first and second end caps and external piping elements such that when fluid pressure increases within said filter element sealing force on the fluid tight connection increases.

A method of filtering solutions comprising the steps of

• (A) providing first and second fluid connectors on a filter holder;
• (B) mounting first and second end caps of a filtration unit having a filter element sealed to said end caps on said first and second fluid connectors such that sealed connections are forced between said fluid connectors and said end caps;
• (C) conveying fluid into said first fluid connector, through said first end cap and said filter element, and out of said second fluid connector;
• and
• (D) axially deforming said end caps by fluid pressure in said filter unit, thereby forcing said end caps into tighter engagement with said fluid connectors and improving said sealed connections.