Apparatus and method for guiding a textile web over a convex guiding surface

The method of guiding a web received in open width comprising the steps of:

• tensioning and moving a web under controlled tension;
• directing a said web under said controlled tension at a first angle in open width toward a web guiding surface;
• mounting a stationary outwardly curved extruded aluminum section for receiving said web thereover under said controlled tension for changing direction of the web;
• providing a curved outer convex web guiding surface on said section constructed of aluminum with a hardened, wear resistant guiding surface engaging said web received thereover with a predetermined wrap;
• and
• directing said web at a second angle away from said wear resistant guiding surface under said controlled tension;
• whereby said section serves as a guide for the web while minimizing wear.

Apparatus for inspecting a web passing thereover in open width comprising:

• an enclosure containing a source of light over which said web is carried for inspection;
• said enclosure including;
• an outwardly curved section constructed of extruded aluminum forming an end of said enclosure;
• a stationary curved outer convex hardened wear resistant surface on said section;
• a concave inner housing surface formed by said section on a side opposite said convex surface;
• means on each end of said section for positioning enclosure forming side members;
• and
• at least one of said side members being transparent permitting passage of light from within the enclosure through the web facilitating inspection thereof.