Abstract: The present invention relates to a variable compressibility layer in rollers or flat pulleys. The present invention provides a smooth-surface roller that will "spread" a web being conveyed by a roller, or urge flattening and prevention of wrinkles in the web. It will also assist in the centering of the web being conveyed on web-handling equipment. If a roller is small, it may be used as a flat pulley, wherein the present invention causes a belt to track in the center of the pulley.

Abstract: A printing article which includes a rotatable metal support in the form of a cylinder and a compressible laminate mounted upon the support. The compressible laminate has upper and lower surfaces and a substantially uniform thickness and includes a printing face which forms the upper surface and a compressible layer positioned beneath the printing face. The upper surface of the compressible layer is spaced closer to the upper surface of the printing face in the center of the cylindrical support than at the ends. Preferably, this laminate is cylindrical and is in the form of a printing blanket or printing roll. The invention also relates to a method for forming the compressible laminate.