Abstract: Necked nonwoven webs having improved cross-directional uniformity are made by a process which includes the step (prior to neck stretching) of corrugating the nonwoven web to reduce its width from an initial width A to a reduced corrugated width B. The cross-directional uniformity is optimized as the corrugated width B approaches the ultimate width C of the necked nonwoven web.

Abstract: A cross-directional elasticized composite includes a facing layer and a plurality of elastic filaments disposed in the cross direction. A method for making the cross-direction elasticized composite by continuously disposing molten elastic filaments on the facing layer and in the cross direction, is also provided.

Abstract: A series of nips (200, 202, 204, 412, 414) formed by intermeshing grooves (22, 24, 26, 28) provides for a higher degree of stretch, particularly for lightweight webs (100) by stretching in stages in multiple grooved nips. The ability to adjust the degree of stretch at each nip can provide a high degree and variability of stretch with reduced web damage compared to a single step application of the same stretch. Improvements to the manufacture of lightweight components of personal care products such as diaper backing components are obtained.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus and method for deforming a sheet material. The apparatus includes a deforming roller having a plurality of circumferential depressions and at least one cord in rotational engagement with the roller and adapted to press the material into the depressions. The method includes the steps of providing a rotating deforming roller having circumferential depressions, at least one cord aligned to fit within the depressions and at least one sheet material, and feeding the material in a first direction between the roller and cord and deforming the material by pressing it at least partially into the depressions with the cord. The deformation may include stretching or extending the material, and/or aperturing the material, and/or producing topographical shapes or surface features in the material.