WIRE FILTER CAGE LOCKING MECHANISM

A filter bag support structure, including a first section and a second section. The first section includes a pair of opposed alignment members located partially internal to the first section and extending outwardly away from the first section aligned to insert into the second section. The second section includes at least one annular member. The alignment members are receivable within the second section and have engagement members near a distal end. A locking member is removeably insertable between the opposed alignment members and inhibits the alignment members from flexing inwardly when the locking member is inserted and causes the alignment members to resist being removed from the at least one annular member when a tension load is applied that would tend to separate the first section from the second section to a greater degree than when the locking member is not present.