System for finishing surface of a web of paper having an improved continuous finishing belt

An improved calendering system comprising a continuous finishing belt capable of finishing a surface of a web of paper and a calendering apparatus comprising a calendar roll, said system comprising an extended nip defined intermediate said calendar roll and an outer finishing surface of said belt said calender roll capable of being heated to a calendering temperature such that a smooth, glossy, matte or smooth and glossy finish is imparted to said surface of said web of paper passing through said extended nip at said calendering temperature during an extended dwell time, said belt comprising:

• a flexible substrate;
• an inner surface;
• and
• an outer finishing surface formed from smooth, soft elastomeric material having a smoothness and softness capable of imparting said smooth, glossy, matte or smooth and glossy finish to the surface of said web of paper passing through said extended nip at said calendering temperature during said extended dwell time, said belt capable of use in said system at said calendering temperature in said extended nip during said extended dwell time without substantial heat induced deterioration of said outer finishing surface of said belt.