Abstract: Apparatus and methods for applying drying air to a printed substrate during each pass of a print head over the substrate. Preferred embodiments of the present invention direct heated air onto the printed substrate and then draw that heated air away from the proximity of the substrate with a vacuum.

Abstract: Application of radiation curable coatings to a flexible vinyl web, which is usually printed with a decorative pattern. This printed vinyl may be laminated to a backing for support and is often embossed. The actinically irradiated coated vinyl surface has improved stain resistance and is resistant to chemical attack by common as well as aggressive household cleaning solvents such as pine oil cleaners and nail polish remover. The coating is essentially free of hazardous volatile organic compounds and does not pose a toxicological threat to humans nor does it contaminate the atmosphere. These surface coated, actinically crosslinked vinyl laminates can be used in the manufacture of wallcoverings, automotive interiors, upholstery, tablecloths and other such applications especially where heat sensitive plastics are employed.