PARTICULATE FILTER AND METHOD FOR CONTROL

An exhaust treatment system comprises a filter device in communication with the engine and configured to receive exhaust gas therefrom. The filter device comprises a canister including an inlet, a filter structure having an upstream, inlet end, a downstream, outlet end, and a series of filtering flow passages. A center zone conduit is in sealing, fluid contact with the downstream, outlet end of the filter structure to thereby define a center flow zone and perimeter flow zone. A flow control valve assembly is disposed in the center zone conduit. A controller is in signal communication with the flow control valve and a temperature sensor and monitors a temperature profile of the filter structure wherein, upon a determination that the temperature of the center flow zone of the filter structure is above a predetermined level, the controller drives the flow control valve assembly to a closed position.