Desiccant cartridge for an integrated condenser/receiver and method of making same

[0057] Referring initially to FIG. 1 of the drawings, a receiver 10 includes a canister 12 defining a pair of bosses 14 and 16; a plug 18; and an end panel 20. As shown in FIG. 2, the canister 12 defines a reservoir 22 which communicates through an inlet port 24 extending through the boss 14 and an outlet port extending through the boss 16.

[0058] With continuing reference to FIG. 2, a preferred desiccant cartridge 30 positioned in the reservoir 22 comprises a rigid member or dongle 32 and a porous desiccant pouch or bag 34 containing a powdered or granulated desiccant material 36. The preferred reservoir 22 is substantially cylindrical in shape, having an open end 27 presenting internal threads 28. As shown in FIG. 3, the preferred rigid dongle 32 includes a web portion 40; a cylindrical skirt portion 42; and a tab portion 44 extending transversely from the web portion 40. As shown in FIG. 4, the web portion 40 closes an end of the skirt portion 42 to define a cavity 46. The preferred