Abstract: A material deposition apparatus for depositing an evaporated material onto a substrate is provided. The material deposition apparatus includes a processing drum having a cooler configured to control a substrate temperature during processing of a substrate on the processing drum; a roller guiding the substrate towards the processing drum; a first heater assembly positioned to heat the substrate in a free-span area between the roller and the processing drum; a second heater assembly positioned to heat the substrate while being supported on the processing drum; at least one deposition source provided along a substrate transport path downstream of the second heater assembly; a substrate speed sensor providing a speed signal correlating with a substrate transportation speed; and a controller having an input for the speed signal configured to control at least the first heater assembly.

Abstract: Provided herein are devices for propelling string through the air. The device includes a housing and two wheels. The housing can include an upper projection and a lower projection configured to form an upper gap and a lower gap operable to receive a looped string. The upper projection and the lower projection can linearly align with a gap between the two wheels.

Abstract: Provided herein are devices for propelling string through the air. The device includes two wheels, a motor, a head, a handle, a detachable cover, and at least one UV light source. At least one of the two wheels can be operable to be driven by the motor. The two wheels can be rotatably mounted to the head and form a gap operable to receive a portion of the looped string. The device can further include one or more heat sinks coupled to the at least one UV light source and/or motor.

Abstract: A strip diverting mechanism includes a negative pressure unit and an air discharge unit. The negative pressure unit and the air discharge unit are arranged opposite each other, and a gap through which a strip passes is formed between the negative pressure unit and the air discharge unit. The negative pressure unit is configured to provide a suction force to the strip and the air discharge unit is configured to provide a repulsive force to the strip, to prevent the strip from contacting the negative pressure unit and the air discharge unit.

Abstract: A connector assembly comprising: a first end and a second end; a first inlet for receiving a protective duct of an enhanced performance fibre unit; a second inlet for receiving a protective duct of an enhanced performance fibre unit; an outlet for receiving a protective duct of an enhanced performance fibre unit; a first internal channel between the first inlet and the outlet for receiving a length of enhanced performance fibre unit stripped of its protective duct; and a second internal channel for receiving a length of enhanced performance fibre unit stripped of its protective duct between the second inlet and a section of the first internal channel proximate the outlet.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for transporting a flexible substrate are provided. In one embodiment, an air turn is disclosed that includes a body, a porous cover disposed about a circumference of the body, and two seals. Each of the two seals are positioned about the circumference of the body and spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction of the body to define a central zone bounded by a second zone and by a third zone. The second zone and third zone are each positioned outside of a respective seal. The body includes a first opening formed along a longitudinal axis of the body, and a plurality of second openings formed in the body at a position other than along the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A drop terminal mounting system includes a fiber drop terminal having a housing and a base attached to the housing. The housing includes an outer surface containing a plurality of receptacles and cooperatively defines an inner cavity with the base. The drop terminal mounting system further includes a bracket having a first fastening region and a second fastening region adapted to secure the drop terminal to the bracket.

Abstract: A glove collecting device includes a guiding member including an internal space, an inlet at one end, and an outlet at the other end, wherein the end adjacent to the inlet of the guiding member is bent inwards such that the end adjacent to the inlet extends from the inlet towards the outlet to form an interlayer and the interlayer includes a plurality of holes; and an adaptor member disposed externally of the outlet and including a hollow connector distal the outlet, and a channel through the connector for communicating with the space of the guiding member.

Abstract: A glove collecting device includes a guiding member including an internal space, an inlet at one end, and an outlet at the other end; and an adaptor member disposed externally of the outlet and including a hollow connector distal the outlet, and a channel through the connector for communicating with the space of the guiding member.

Abstract: Provided herein is a device for forming a conductive film. The device includes a deposition device and an air supply. The deposition device is configured to form a wet film having conductive nanostructures and a fluid carrier on a web. The web is moved in a first direction while forming the wet film. The air supply is disposed at a side of the web and configured to apply an air flow onto the wet film. The air flow is directed onto the wet film in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction to reorient a direction of some conductive nanostructures in the wet film to define reoriented conductive nanostructures.

Abstract: The present invention provides a non-contact vibration suppression device comprising a first ultrasonic vibration unit and a second ultrasonic vibration unit, the device being characterized in that the first ultrasonic vibration unit and the second ultrasonic vibration unit are installed to face each other while being spaced from each other such that an object can be interposed therebetween, the first ultrasonic vibration unit and the second ultrasonic vibration unit generate ultrasonic vibrations, respectively, and apply repulsive forces, which result from the ultrasonic vibrations, to the object such that the object is constrained with no contact between the first ultrasonic vibration unit and the second ultrasonic vibration unit, thereby suppressing vibration of the object.

Abstract: An apparatus for delivering a discrete cord having a supply path comprising a fluid flow, a deployed cord supply, a transfer member having a first surface comprising one or more orifices capable of receiving the deployed cord supply, and a cutting apparatus comprising a cutting implement enabled to sever the deployed cord supply to form a discrete cord. The fluid flow directs the deployed cord supply towards the transfer member first surface. The transfer member first surface abuts the cutting apparatus.

Abstract: A drop terminal mounting system includes a fiber drop terminal having a housing and a base attached to the housing. The housing includes an outer surface containing a plurality of receptacles and cooperatively defines an inner cavity with the base. The drop terminal mounting system further includes a bracket having a first fastening region and a second fastening region adapted to secure the drop terminal to the bracket.

Abstract: An apparatus for delivering a discrete cord having a supply path comprising a fluid flow, a deployed cord supply, a transfer member having a first surface comprising one or more orifices capable of receiving the deployed cord supply, and a cutting apparatus comprising a cutting implement enabled to sever the deployed cord supply to form a discrete cord. The fluid flow directs the deployed cord supply towards the transfer member first surface. The transfer member first surface abuts the cutting apparatus.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for starting a strip material in a substrate processing machine wherein the machine is not stopped and/or operators do not have to reach into the running machine to start the strip material. Exemplary systems include a strip material guide apparatus including at least one guide arm and at least one gas stream generator configured to direct strip material from the guide arm into a substrate processing machine to join the strip material with one or more running substrates. The gas stream generator is operable to cause a leading end of a strip material dispensed from the guide arm to be conveyed via a gas stream toward the running substrates, such that the leading end of the strip material becomes engaged by the substrate processing machine and the strip material joins with the running substrate.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for starting a strip material in a substrate processing machine wherein the machine is not stopped and operators do not have to reach into the running machine to start the strip material. Exemplary systems include a strip material guide apparatus including at least one guide arm and at least one gas stream generator configured to direct strip material from the guide arm into a nip point of a substrate processing machine to join the strip material with the running substrates. The gas stream generator is operable to cause a leading end of a strip material dispensed from the guide arm to be conveyed via a gas stream toward the nip point or toward the running substrates, such that the leading end of the strip material becomes engaged by the substrate processing machine at the nip point and the strip material joins with the running substrates.

Abstract: A tubewire buckling mitigation assembly for use with injection of tubewire into coiled tubing. The mitigation assembly includes a passageway having a small diameter passage, an intermediate diameter section and first and second tapered transition sections.

Abstract: A debris sweep and dry assist device is for use with a strapping machine. The debris sweep and dry assist device is positioned between the strapping machine and an associated strap supply. The device includes a body having a strap inlet and a strap outlet and defining a strap path therethrough. The body has a first wall at about the strap inlet and a second wall at about the strap outlet. The body has a first manifold and a plurality of first branches extending between the first manifold and the first wall to provide a plurality of flow paths from the first manifold to the environs through the first branches. A compressed is gas directed into the first manifold and flows out of the first branches, and is directed onto strap material at a location at about the strap inlet.

Abstract: A continuous multi-layer film includes a support layer having a first film surface, and a hard coat layer, formed on the support layer, having a second film surface, and having a curling tendency in an inward direction. In the decurling method, the multi-layer film is transported. A first transition of the support layer in the multi-layer film being transported into a rubber phase is induced by supplying fluid vapor on the support layer. After supplying the fluid vapor, a second transition of the support layer from the rubber phase into a glass phase is induced. The multi-layer film is transported while a portion of the support layer in the rubber phase is prevented from contacting a solid object. The hard coat layer is formed from a polymer produced from an ultraviolet curable compound, and the support layer is formed from cellulose acylate.

Abstract: A continuous multi-layer film includes a support layer having a first film surface, and a hard coat layer, formed on the support layer, having a second film surface, and having a curling tendency in an inward direction. In the decurling method, the multi-layer film is transported. A first transition of the support layer in the multi-layer film being transported into a rubber phase is induced by supplying fluid vapor on the support layer. After supplying the fluid vapor, a second transition of the support layer from the rubber phase into a glass phase is induced. The multi-layer film is transported while a portion of the support layer in the rubber phase is prevented from contacting a solid object. The hard coat layer is formed from a polymer produced from an ultraviolet curable compound, and the support layer is formed from cellulose acylate.

Abstract: A system that avoids any stopping or reversing of the web direction in a continuous feed printer, instead maintaining consistent process speed, only requiring a slowing and speeding up of the web to cycle through the PR belt seam. This is done by forming a web loop and then immediately flattening the loop after passage of the seam through the transfer zone that includes two transfer BTR rolls with alternating transfer operations, but simultaneous transfer for short periods. Two vacuum assist rolls, one located between the two bias transfer rolls controls the formation of the web loop. A pair of nip forming rolls upstream of the first transfer station and a second vacuum assist roll downstream of the second transfer station control the size of the loop.

Abstract: A non-contact dancer mechanism for conveying a web of brittle material includes a guide rail and a variable position web support plenum adjustably positioned on the guide rail. The variable position web support plenum may include an arcuate outer surface with a plurality of fluid vents for emitting a fluid to support the web of brittle material over and spaced apart from the arcuate outer surface thereby preventing mechanical contact and damage to the web of brittle material. A support plenum counterbalance may be mechanically coupled to the variable position web support plenum, wherein the support plenum counterbalance supports at least a portion of the weight of the variable position web support plenum on the guide rail. Apparatuses incorporating the non-contact dancer mechanism and methods for using the non-contact dancer mechanism for handling continuous webs of brittle material are also disclosed.

Abstract: A non-contact dancer mechanism for conveying a web of brittle material includes a guide rail and a variable position web support plenum adjustably positioned on the guide rail. The variable position web support plenum may include an arcuate outer surface with a plurality of fluid vents for emitting a fluid to support the web of brittle material over and spaced apart from the arcuate outer surface thereby preventing mechanical contact and damage to the web of brittle material. A support plenum counterbalance may be mechanically coupled to the variable position web support plenum, wherein the support plenum counterbalance supports at least a portion of the weight of the variable position web support plenum on the guide rail. Apparatuses incorporating the non-contact dancer mechanism and methods for using the non-contact dancer mechanism for handling continuous webs of brittle material are also disclosed.

Abstract: In a method and an apparatus for drying plate-shaped products in a multi-level throughflow dryer, moist air stagnated under the housing ceiling is sucked away and delivered into the suction area of axial blowers arranged in the lower levels, where the moist air is then differentially admixed into a quantity of re-heated drying air, and the mixture is delivered to the nozzle boxes of the dryer.

Abstract: In a conveyor apparatus (100), a belt (110) is provided with a plurality of suction portions (111) penetrating the belt (110). The belt (110) includes lifting portions (113) each of which is provided between the suction portions (111) adjacent in a cross direction (CD) and lifts from edge portions (112) forming the suction portions (111). The plurality of suction portions (111) adjacent to each other across the lifting portions (113) communicate with each other, when a web (7) is sucked and held on the belt (110). The suction portions (111) located at endmost portions (110A) in the cross direction (CD) of the belt (110) communicate with the outside, when the web (7) is sucked and held on the belt (110).

Abstract: Devices and methods related to a web stabilizer for stabilizing a moving web with a surface adjacent the moving web and with a supply of moving fluid in a direction parallel to the moving web and a supply of moving fluid in a direction perpendicular to the moving web.

Abstract: Cable is installed into a duct, by increasing cross-sectional areas of subducting provided in the duct, so as to allow the cable to be received into the subducting, and then decreasing the cross-sectional area of the subducting containing the cable so as to reduce the volume occupied by the subducting in the duct. Cables may be inserted into the subducting, for example, by forcing compressed gas through the subducting, which simultaneously inflates the subducting.

Abstract: There is disclosed a conveyer and a conveying method that enable conveying a lengthy honeycomb formed article extruded at a high speed with a simple apparatus without causing cracks and deformation. The conveyer of a honeycomb formed article includes a plurality of lengthy cradles 3a that are sequentially supplied and then sequentially support and convey the honeycomb formed article 5, and a fixed support that is fixed so as to extend from the extruder 2 to a supply position of the lengthy cradles 3a, supports the honeycomb formed article 5 just after being extruded, and conveys it to one of the lengthy cradles 3a, and the fixed support is an air float 4 having a supporting face 14 and a plurality of air ejection pores 24 formed on the supporting face that conveys the honeycomb formed article 5 by feeding air from the air ejection pores 24.

Abstract: The invention relates to devices and apparatus for web guiding and cooling of webs during thin-film forming. A guiding device for contact-free guiding a web is provided with the device having a surface for facing the web and a multitude of gas outlets disposed in the surface and adapted for providing a hover cushion for the web. Further, an apparatus for coating a web and a method for contact-free guiding a web is provided that comprises moving the web over a surface and emitting a multitude of gas streams from the surface, thereby generating a hover cushion between the surface and the web. Further, a method for producing a thin-film solar cell is provided that comprises a method for contact-free guiding a web according to embodiments described herein. The method for producing a thin-film solar cell further comprises depositing a back contact on the web and depositing a transparent and conductive oxide layer.

Abstract: A filamentous member injection device including a housing; a capstan drivably disposable in the housing; a restricted diameter tubular extending from the housing and being in fluid communication with an interior of the housing. A method for injecting a filamentous member into a target tubular includes wrapping the filamentous member about a capstan; causing a tensile force to be placed on a portion of the filamentous member downstream of the capstan, the tensile force acting on the capstan; binding the filamentous member to the capstan; and driving the filamentous member into the target tubular with the capstan.

Abstract: An optical fiber assembly includes: a component defining at least one inlet for optical fibers, an adapter, an optical fiber cable connected to the adapter, and a push-fit connector. The component includes a through-hole for passage of the optical fibers and an associated mating region to engage the push-fit connector. The optical fiber cable connected to the adapter defines a connection region with a predetermined cross-sectional shape for mating with the push-fit connector. The push-fit connector includes a first end, a second end, and a through-passage extending between the first and second ends. The first end is push-fit connected with the mating region. The second end is push-fit connected to the connection region. Optical fibers from the optical fiber cable can be directed through the push-fit connector and the through-hole. A method of installing optical fibers in a joint housing is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for threading a pulp web (W) from the press section (1) of a pulp machine to the dryer (2) of the pulp machine. The arrangement comprises a closing tail threading belt (3) or the like, which is arranged to convey the narrow tail end (Wh) formed on the pulp web (W) inside the dryer (2), where the tail threading cord travels outside the edge of the normal web line of the pulp web. The tail end (Wh) can subsequently be broadened into a normal-width pulp web (W). The arrangement further comprises means (7) for gripping the tail end (Wh) in order to bring the tail end inside/between a closing tail threading cord (3) or the like, whereby the gripping means (7) are arranged to function at the normal running speed of the pulp machine.

Abstract: A dry end section for a paper-making machine for producing a high-bulk tissue is provided. Such a machine comprises a through-air dryer adapted to finally dry a paper web and a through-air drying fabric configured to transport the web through the through-air dryer. A separating device is included for facilitating separation of the web from the through-air drying fabric. A reel is also provided and is configured to receive the web thereon. The web is received directly on the separating device or on a fabric wrapped about the separating device. In some instances, the web may be compressed between the separating device and an adjacent roll or by a web-compressing device disposed along the fabric transporting the web. The web is then transported to the reel directly from the fabric or other support mechanism extending between the separating device and the reel, without free draw of the web. Associated methods are also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method in leading a web threading tail particularly in a paper machine. In the method a device is used, which is moved close to a fabric transporting the web threading tail and by means of which the web threading tail is detached from the surface of the fabric. The web threading tail is transferred laterally relative to its direction of travel to the following web threading device, after which the device is moved away from the vicinity of the web threading tail. The transfer of the web threading tail in the cross direction of the paper machine takes place mechanically by pushing. The invention also related to a corresponding device.

Abstract: A venturi incorporated in a pneumatic tube conveying system for flexible textile fabrics such as uniforms and table linens handled in commercial laundries. The venturi includes an angled pipe which joins the main piping system at an acute angle and which receives air from a blower. An inside pipe is installed within the main piping to create a restriction at the connection of the venturi with the main piping. The restriction and angled connection of the venturi pipe creates a low pressure area which draws fabric articles through the piping and discharges them directly into receptacles such as sling carts. A screened vent in the piping downstream from the venturi allows the escape of air to enhance the reliability and efficiency of the pneumatic conveying system. The exposure of the vent can be adjusted by a sleeve that slides back and forth on the conveyor tube at the location of the vent.

Abstract: A device for non-contact support of a continuous moving web of material employs an air clamp stabilizer that includes a Coanda slot and a backstep that is located downstream of the direction of the airflow extending from the Coanda slot. This configuration permits a Coanda jet to expand and to create an additional suction force. Vortex formation may also occur which further contributes to the strength of the suction force. As the web passes the stabilizer, an area of the web material rides on an air bearing that is maintained above the stabilizer surface and downstream of the backstep.

Abstract: A process for relaxation of interlayer sheet is provided which comprises heating the interlayer sheet, followed by leading the heated interlayer sheet over an air-cushion table with regulation of the tension on the interlayer sheet to induce interlayer sheet relaxation and thereafter cooling the relaxed interlayer sheet to the desired temperature for subsequent use. Apparatus suitable for carrying out the process of interlayer sheet relaxation comprising a heating section, an air-cushion table, a tension control and a cooling section is also provided in accordance with the present invention.

Abstract: An optical fibre installation includes (i) a part defining an inlet for optical fibres that has a through-hole for the passage of optical fibres and an associated mating region for a push-fit connector, (ii) an optical fibre cable connected to an adapter that defines a connection region having a predetermined cross-section for mating with a push-fit connector and (iii) a push-fit connector having a first end, a second end, a through-passage extending between those ends and a seal associated with the first end. The second end of the push-fit connector is push-fit connected to the connection region of the adapter and the first end of the push-fit connector is push-fit connected with the mating region of the inlets in such a way that the seal sealingly engages the inlet defining part. The arrangement is such that optical fibres from the optical fibre cable can be directed through the push-fit connector and the through-hold of the inlet.

Abstract: A venturi incorporated in a pneumatic tube conveying system for flexible textile fabrics such as uniforms and table linens handled in commercial laundries. The venturi includes an angled pipe which joins the main piping system at an acute angle and which receives air from a blower. An inside pipe is installed within the main piping to create a restriction at the connection of the venturi with the main piping. The restriction and angled connection of the venturi pipe creates a low pressure area which draws fabric articles through the piping and discharges them directly into receptacles such as sling carts. A screened vent in the piping downstream from the venturi allows the escape of air to enhance the reliability and efficiency of the pneumatic conveying system. The exposure of the vent can be adjusted by a sleeve that slides back and forth on the conveyor tube at the location of the vent.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatic threading and winding of optical fiber onto various components in a fiber draw system, as well as methods and apparatus for conducting online tensile screening of optical fiber at high speeds. In a preferred embodiment, the fiber is tensile tested during fiber draw and wound directly onto a shipping spool to be shipped to a customer. The tensile stress can be imparted to the fiber during the draw process by feeding the fiber through a screener capstan, which works in conjunction with another capstan to impart the desired tensile stress to the fiber during the draw process.

Abstract: A paper machine for manufacturing a fiber web traveling in a machine direction and having a tail includes at least one rope defining a rope nip. A threading arm assembly is positioned in association with the rope nip. The threading arm includes a frame and a diverter carried by the frame. The diverter is movable to divert the tail in a direction transverse to the machine direction toward the rope nip.

Abstract: A method for filling a receiver with expanded fibers includes the steps of feeding at least one bundle of fibers from at least one roving; introducing the at least one bundle into a portable tool having a manual gripping element, a spray nozzle, an air supply device connected for supplying air to the nozzle, an extraction system configured to hold the at least one bundle and feed the at least one bundle to the nozzle, and an inlet guide positioned to guide the at least one bundle to the extraction system; and using the air supply device to expand the fibers of the at least one bundle in said spray nozzle, and spray the expanded fibers into the receiver.

Abstract: A venturi incorporated in a pneumatic tube conveying system for flexible textile fabrics such as uniforms and table linens handled in commercial laundries. The venturi includes an angled pipe which joins the main piping system at an acute angle and which receives air from a blower. An inside pipe is installed within the main piping to create a restriction at the connection of the venturi with the main piping. The restriction and angled connection of the venturi pipe creates a low pressure area which draws fabric articles through the piping and discharges them directly into receptacles such as sling carts. A screened vent in the piping downstream from the venturi allows the escape of air to enhance the reliability and efficiency of the pneumatic conveying system. The exposure of the vent can be adjusted by a sleeve that slides back and forth on the conveyor tube at the location of the vent.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for conveying and guiding a lead-in strip in a paper machine, in which method a lead-in strip is directed over a run of a conveyor in the paper machine and a longitudinal vacuum effect is produced across the run of the conveyor in the direction of moment of the run of the conveyor.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a draw jet for drawing thermoplastic polymer filaments including a drawing slot defined by an entrance member including a converging passageway communicating with a continuing passageway, terminating at an outlet portion, a drawing member including an inlet portion having a drawing gap width of about 2.0 to about 10 mm communicating with the outlet portion of the entrance member, and at least one air nozzle for directing high speed air onto the filaments in a downstream direction positioned between the outlet portion of the entrance member and the inlet portion of the drawing member, and with a nozzle gap width wherein the gap ratio of the drawing gap width to the combined width of all of the nozzle gaps is from about 1.0 to about 10.

Abstract: An apparatus for transferring a tail of a fibrous web through a press section of a machine for making the fibrous web is disclosed. The apparatus includes a threading device positioned between first and second press section transfer devices that is pivotable between an inoperable position and an operable position. The threading device includes a stationary upper surface defined by a plurality of tubes. The tubes discharge air over the upper surface of the threading device to form an air cushion having an underpressure between the tail of the fibrous web and the threading device. The tail of the web is urged by the air cushion to the second transfer device and is threaded thereinto.

Abstract: A venturi incorporated in a pneumatic tube conveying system for flexible textile fabrics such as uniform and table linens handled in commercial laundries. The venturi includes an angled pipe which joins the main piping system at an acute angle and which receives air from a blower. An inside pipe is installed within the main piping to create a restriction at the connection of the venturi with the main piping. The restriction and angled connection of the venturi pipe creates a low pressure area which draws fabric articles through the piping and discharges them directly into receptacles such as sling carts. A screened vent in the piping downstream from the venturi allows the escape of air to enhance the reliability and efficiency of the pneumatic conveying system. The exposure of the vent can be adjusted by a sleeve that slides back and forth on the conveyor tube at the location of the vent.

Abstract: A printing web distortion device for imposing a measured amount of distortion into a moving web of substrate, such as paper, to compensate for lateral stretching of the substrate during a printing operation includes a post, which can be vertically adjusted, having a gas nozzle disposed at, or adjacent to, the tip of the post for generating a cushion of a gas. A support enclosure for the post has a source for pressurized gas. The post is able to slide longitudinally within the support enclosure, so that the tip of the post is either raised in an operating mode, so that the post imposes a stretch compensating distortion or, in an idle mode, the post is withdrawn from the substrate, so that no elevating force is provided on the substrate. In the operating mode, the stretch compensating distortion results from an elevating force provided by the post between the tip of the post and the moving substrate resulting from the cushion of gas, which is preferably a cushion of air.

Abstract: A device for non-contact support of a continuous moving web of material employs an air clamp stabilizer that includes a Coanda slot and a backstep that is located downstream of the direction of the airflow extending from the Coanda slot. This configuration permits a Coanda jet to expand and to create an additional suction force. Vortex formation may also occur which further contributes to the strength of the suction force. As the web passes the stabilizer, an area of the web material rides on an air bearing that is maintained above the stabilizer surface and downstream of the backstep.

Abstract: To accomplish a web transfer, which in reliability is comparable to the one obtained with a closed draw, in any operating environment, but especially where it is desirable to transfer a fast running tissue web (4) from the drying section of a tissue machine, e.g., a Yankee dryer (2), to a reel-up (3), a web support device (10) extends across the width of the web (4) and along a predetermined run of the web support device has a support surface (11) formed by a series of plate member assemblies (23) having means for creating a flow of air in the direction of the web run. Between the web (4) and the support surface (11) the flow of air forms an air layer (15) of reduced static pressure, so as to stabilize the web (4) against flutter. The predetermined run may extend through a calender (7) and past scanner equipment (8). Pneumatic tail threading capabilities may be included.