Filter element support assembly, quick installation system, and methods

A quick-release system to clamp and release a filter element arrangement onto a tube sheet having an aperture;

• the system comprising:
• (a) a filter element support assembly constructed and arranged to be secured to the tube sheet;
• (b a filter element arrangement mounted over the support assembly and having a tube sheet end mountable against the tube sheet so that the filter element arrangement is in communication with the aperture of the tube sheet;
• (c) an end cover oriented over an end of the filter element arrangement opposite of the tube sheet end;
• (d) the support assembly including a handle;
• the handle being pivotable between a clamped position and a release position;
• the handle including,
• (i) a gripper sized to be gripped by a human hand;
• and
• (ii) a head extending from the gripper;
• (A) the head having a flat bearing surface;
• and
• (B) the head defining an open slot, opposite of the bearing surface;
• wherein the clamped position includes the handle bearing surface engaged against the end cover;
• and the release position includes the handle bearing surface being away from the end cover;
• wherein the support assembly includes a tripod of legs and a clamp rod extending therefrom;
• the clamp rod is releasably engageable with the handle;
• and a fastener arrangement is secured to the clamp rod;
• and
• (e) further comprising a first clamp having a through-hole;
• the clamp rod extending through the through-hole in the first clamp;
• the first clamp defining a plurality of rod seats sized to receive one of the legs;
• and a second clamp having a through-hole;
• the clamp rod extending through the second clamp through-hole;
• the second clamp being mounted against the first clamp.