A method and apparatus are provided, for forming a filter element including a media pack in the form of a coiled web of fluted filter media, by feeding the web of fluted filter media at a controlled linear speed onto a mandrel rotated by a winding motor providing a controlled driving torque to the mandrel, to thereby maintain a controlled tension on the web of fluted filter media as the web is wound onto the mandrel. The web may be fed at a substantially constant linear speed to the mandrel, and/or the winding motor may be controlled in a manner providing substantially constant driving torque to the mandrel for maintaining a constant tension on the web as a function of the constant driving torque. Coiled media packs having circular or non-circular cross sections, can be formed with either cored, or core-less construction.