Spreader bar apparatus

Abstract

A spreader bar apparatus is disclosed for separating slit portions of a web. The apparatus includes a first spreader bar which extends in a cross-machine direction relative to the web. The first spreader bar is bowed relative to the slit portions such that the slit portions are separated axially relative to each other when the slit portions are guided around the first spreader bar. A second spreader bar is disposed downstream relative to the first bar and extends in a cross-machine direction relative to the web for guiding the separated slit portions. The second bar is bowed relative to the separated slit portions such that each of the slit portions disposed downstream relative to the second bar is disposed parallel to each other. A first and a second porous layer are connected to the first and second bars respectively such that when the bars are connected to a source of pressurized air, air flows through the bars and the porous layers towards the slit portions for generating respectively a first and second air cushion. The cushions reduce the frictional resistance between the moving slit portions and the bars. Additionally, the air cushions reduce the noise level caused by movement of the slit portions when the slit portions move relative to and are guided by the spreader bars.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.