Abstract: Described herein are devices and methods for the drying of permeable and semi-permeable webs such as paper products in a physical environment with limited space while providing for higher flow rates. The devices and methods of the present invention are for use with rotating, foraminous shelled roll dryers and are implemented by redesigning the aspects of the devices and methods associated with exhausting spent drying gas.

Abstract: Described herein are devices and methods for the drying of permeable and semi-permeable webs such as paper products in a physical environment with limited space while providing for higher flow rates. The devices and methods of the present invention are for use with rotating, foraminous shelled roll dryers and are implemented by redesigning the aspects of the devices and methods associated with exhausting spent drying gas.

Abstract: A through-air device includes a permeable roll having a hollow interior and mounted for rotation about a longitudinal axis. At least one divider is located in the hollow interior so as to define a plurality of roll channels within the roll, the roll channels being positioned side-by-side along the longitudinal axis. A first housing bounds a first portion of the roll, and a second housing bounds a second portion of the roll. At least one partition is located in the second housing so as to define a plurality of housing channels within the second housing. Each one of the housing channels is aligned with a corresponding one of the roll channels. The device further includes structure for individually controlling airflow through each pair of corresponding roll channels and housing channels.

Abstract: A through-air drying apparatus for drying a traveling wet paper web supported on a continuous fabric comprises a dryer roll about which the fabric and web are partially wrapped and which has a foraminous roll face, a supply hood which surrounds the portion of the roll about which the fabric and web are wrapped and which supplies heated air through the fabric and web and through the roll face into the interior of the roll, and an exhaust system for exhausting air from the roll. An axial exhaust passage is formed through at least one head of the roll. An exhaust manifold is connected to the exhaust passage and defines two outlets on opposite sides of the manifold. A pair of movable ducts are sealingly and releasably engaged with the outlets in the opposite sides of the manifold, the ducts being spaced apart on opposite sides of the roll so that an access space is defined between the two ducts for access to the roll and supply hood.