Apparatus and method for metering a coating applied to a moving web

Apparatus for metering and smoothing a coating on the coated side of a moving web of material comprising:

• a rod for metering and smoothing the coating extending across the web and in contact with the coating,
• an expansible pressure tube extending across and contiguous to the uncoated side of the web, disposed in alignment with and directly opposite the rod, and adapted to exert a uniform pressure on the rod and the portion of the web contiguous to the rod, and
• a skirt of paper-thin, flexible plastic material extending across the web and having a portion disposed intermediate and in conforming contact with the tube and web and extending in the direction of movement of the web,
• the tube upon expansion having part of its surface in contact with said skirt portion and cooperating with the web and said skirt portion and the rod to create a constant pressure web coating region between the web and the rod to provide a layer of coating on the web of substantially uniform thickness.