Abstract: A process for preparing a defect-free dry coated flexible web, e.g., plastic film, paper, comprising transporting a web freshly coated on one side, in floating and substantially flutter-free condition through a setting/drying zone having a series of sections each section having at least one push-type and one draw-type gas discharge device, e.g., air bar and air foil, respectively, impinging the web on the side opposite to the freshly coated side at an angle, respectively, of substantially 90.degree. and 0.5.degree. to 5.degree. relative to the transport direction of the moving web whereby a wave form, e.g., a single wave form such as a sinusoidal wave, having a repeating cycle of about 10 to 60 inches (25.4 to 152.4 cm) is produced in the web. The set web coating can be subsequently dried in a web drying zone, if required. The defect-free film is useful as an x-ray film, industrial testing film, graphic arts film, photosensitive element, plastic coated film or paper.