A substantially clog-resistant self-supporting fluid filter 100 for attachment
to an open end of flow tube 118. Filter 100 comprises a substantially
cylindrically shaped grid or fluid intake portion 102 having first end 112
and a second end 116. Fluid intake portion 102 comprises a plurality
of substantially parallel longitudinal ribs 106 affixed to a plurality of
substantially parallel circular ribs 108 at an angle to longitudinal ribs
106 thereby allowing a fluid to flow therebetween while preventing passage
of debris intermixed with the fluid. Longitudinal ribs 106 and circular
ribs 108 are substantially rigid such that they cooperate to be structurally
self-supporting. End cover 114 is affixed to first end 112.
Filter 100 further comprises tube receiving portion 104, which
is affixed to or integral with second end 116 and is configured such that
flow tube 118 engages tube receiving portion 104 in a secure, slidable manner.