Abstract: The present invention obviates the use of a vacuum while providing reliable release of thin coated sheets from roller coating machines. Reliable release of a coated sheet is achieved by using dual sets of air nozzles, one set producing a constant flow of a sheet of air and the other producing a short pulse of a sheet of air at an appropriate time in the travel of the front edge of the sheet through the rollers. An optical sensor is employed to provide the properly timed signal to initiate the pulsed air blast. The respective sets of nozzles are configured to position the nozzles in two rows, one above the other, with offset or alternating horizontal positioning so that nozzles of one set do not interfere with nozzles of the other set. Each set of nozzles is connected to a common plenum or air bar extending in parallel relation to the rollers. Each such plenum or air bar is connected to an air pressure source by suitable regulators, filters, solenoids, valves, hoses and connectors.