Abstract: A single tier dryer section apparatus is disclosed for drying a web extending through a paper machine. The apparatus includes a first dryer and a dryer felt extending around the first dryer such that the web is disposed between the felt and the first dryer for drying the web. A vacuum transfer roll is disposed downstream relative to the first dryer such that the web and felt extend contiguously from the first dryer to and around the transfer roll so that the felt is disposed between the web and the roll during transit of the web and felt around the roll. A second dryer is disposed downstream relative to the transfer roll such that the web and the felt extend contiguously from the transfer roll to and around the second dryer so that the web is disposed between the felt and the second dryer during transit of the web and the felt around the second dryer.