Boundary layer control rolls

Abstract

At least one boundary control roll is disposed adjacent a moving web of paper or like material being imprinted with ink. The web of paper has opposing planar surfaces, and at least one such boundary control roll is positioned in transverse non-contacting proximity to a planar surface of said web and rotated counter to the direction of travel of the web. If multiple rolls are used, the rolls on opposing sides of the web should be coacting and counter-rotating. The boundary layer formed about the peripheral surface of each roll is adjustably positioned within the boundary layer on adhering to the moving web. By colliding the respective boundary layers, a zone of interference is created and the boundary layer of the web is significantly reduced in thickness. In this manner, the thickness of the hot solvent-laden boundary layer adhering to each side of the web is effectively reduced.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.