Abstract: An improved system, apparatus and method is disclosed for transferring a running web from a first carrier fabric to a second carrier fabric in the manufacture of webbed products, such as tissue, paper toweling, and the like. A multi-stage vacuum process applies a vacuum to the running web. One or more auxiliary units apply a vacuum to one or more edge portions of the running web. The apparatus provides for a reliable and efficient transfer of the running web among carrier fabrics, in which the carrier fabrics may include topographical features upon their surface.

Abstract: A process for increasing the tactile properties of a base web without adversely affecting the strength of the web is disclosed. In general, the process includes the steps of placing a base web in between a first moving conveyor and a second moving conveyor. The conveyors are then wrapped around a shear inducing roll which creates shear forces that act upon the base web. The shear inducing roll typically has a relatively small diameter. In some applications, more than one shear inducing roll may be incorporated into the system. In other applications, the shear inducing roll can also be a nip roll for decreasing the caliper of the base web. The shear inducing roll may be stationary, as in the form of a stationary shoe with a convex edge, or may rotate. In one embodiment, the shear inducing roll can rotate on an air bearing.

Abstract: A process for increasing the tactile properties of a base web without adversely affecting the strength of the web is disclosed. In general, the process includes the steps of placing a base web in between a first moving conveyor and a second moving conveyor. The conveyors are then wrapped around a shear inducing roll which creates shear forces that act upon the base web. The shear inducing roll typically has a relatively small diameter. In some applications, more than one shear inducing roll may be incorporated into the system. In other applications, the shear inducing roll can also be a nip roll for decreasing the caliper of the base web. The shear inducing roll may be stationary, as in the form of a stationary shoe with a convex edge, or may rotate. In one embodiment, the shear inducing roll can rotate on an air bearing.

Abstract: An improved system, apparatus and method is disclosed for transferring a running web from a first carrier fabric to a second carrier fabric in the manufacture of webbed products, such as tissue, paper toweling, and the like. A multi-stage vacuum process applies a vacuum to the running web. One or more auxiliary units apply a vacuum to one or more edge portions of the running web. The apparatus provides for a reliable and efficient transfer of the running web among carrier fabrics, in which the carrier fabrics may include topographical features upon their surface.