Abstract: A pintle wire (10) for insertion through interdigitating end loops of a belt fabric or of a spiral connector, is disclosed which is expandable after insertion into the seam, for example by way of a sheath (12) which includes a thermally activated expanding agent. This is subject to heating to expand the sheath (12) , causing the pintle wire (10) to swell and fill voids in the seam area reducing permeability in the seam and thus reducing marking of paper webs carried by the belt.

Abstract: In a seam, for example, for paper machine clothing, interdigitating seaming loops (13, 14) embrace deformable yarns (17) inserted between the last cross-machine direction yarns (15a) and the opposed seaming loops (14, 13). Alternatively, an insert may be in the form of a ladder-like member (30) comprising one or more cross-machine direction members (31, 32, 33) and a multiplicity of machine direction members (34) extending beyond the members (31, 32, 33) to locate the seaming loops. Also possible is the use of a strip or tape of foamed or foamable material.

Abstract: A phase separation apparatus such as a filter element or papermaking belt comprises an ormocer which provides abrasion resistance, cleanliness and stability.

Abstract: A method of coating an ormocer (organically modified ceramic) on a phase separation surface of a roller of a phase separation apparatus to facilitate phase separation.

Abstract: A method of coating an ormocer (organically modified ceramic) on a phase separation surface of a filter of a phase separation apparatus to facilitate phase separation.

Abstract: A method of coating an ormocer (organically modified ceramic) on a papermachine clothing.

Abstract: A papermaking fabric primarily for use as a press felt comprises basalt fibers.