The present invention provides a filter apparatus for use in removing impurities
and acids contained in a fluid that includes a particulate filter and an acid-neutralizing
filter. Preferably, the particulate filter and the acid-neutralizing filter are
positioned within a housing. A conduit having a pressure reduction section is arranged
to create a pressure differential across the acid-neutralizing filter such that
a portion of the fluid to be filtered by the filter apparatus passes through the
acid-neutralizing filter.