Abstract: The tray of the instant invention includes a frame, having a rigid core with a plastomer coating thereover. An air-permeable web is disposed over the frame in a taut condition such that the web smoothly meets the frame and that the top side of the frame and the web form a continuous, planar surface.The method of baking a bakery product according to the invention includes the steps of preparing the dough for the product and forming the dough into a desired shape for individual product pieces. The individually formed pieces are placed on a tray having an air-permeable mesh disposed on the upper, planar surface of the tray and the pieces are proofed on the trays for a predetermined time period. The trays are removed, with the pieces carried thereon from the proofing stand and transported on a support conveyor. The pieces are mechanically picked off of the trays with a pickup conveyor and then moved through a baking oven on the pickup conveyor.

Abstract: Apparatus for applying liquid to one side of a substantially flat article includes a power-driven, rotatably journaled drum having a perforate, cylindrical surface. Within the interior of the drum is disposed a roller. The roller includes a resilient, absorbent surface which engages the inside surface of the drum such that rotation of the drum imparts relative rotation to the roller. The roller is rotatable through a liquid reservoir and a pressure member is selectively operable to press or urge the perforate surface against the roller such that liquid picked up by the roller is squeezed through the perforations. An article contacting the drum surface will thereby have liquid applied to one side thereof.