Abstract: Apparatus and a method for the evaporative cooling of a web within a dryer in a compact manner. Excess fluid overspray is controlled, thereby avoiding problems with fluid depositing on internal surfaces of the dryer, which can cause mineral build-up and can result in web breaks or quality defects if fluid drips onto the web. More specifically, a water delivery system is used which directs a water mist to the web by appropriate design and placement of the spray nozzles. The quantity of water delivered to the web is regulated, and is preferably based upon web temperature. Excess mist is controlled by directing hot air to effectively vaporize the excess mist before it is able to contact the internal surfaces of the dryer enclosure and its internal components.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method for the evaporative cooling of a web (5) within a dryer in a compact manner. Excess fluid overspray is controlled thereby avoiding problems with fluid depositing on internal surfaces of the dryer. Which can cause mineral build up and can result in web breaks or quality defects if fluid drips onto the web. More specifically a water delivery system (15) is used which directs a water mist to the web by appropriate design and placement of the spray nozzles (18). The quantity of water delivered to the web is regulated, and is preferably based upon web temperature. Excess mist is controlled by directing hot air to effectively vaporize the excess mist before it is able to contact the internal surfaces of the dryer enclosure (10) and its internal components.