a porous coalescing filter element of conical configuration is disposed within a substantially cylindrical filter housing such that the area between the element and the wall increases in the direction of the primary phase flow to keep the annular velocity substantially constant or decreasing in the direction of primary fluid flow . the element may be manufactured with a round end and tapered walls terminating to a pointed apex , but is more preferably manufactured and secured within the filter housing using flat end caps on both ends . the filter element may be vacuum formed , or manufactured from media in a flat sheet form , which may be pleated if desired .