Patent ID: 7401417
Filing Date: 2008-07-22
Classification: F26B

Abstract:
1. A method for drying or heat treating a web-formed material having a width, the method comprising: transporting the web-formed material, in contact with a gas-permeable dryer screen, through a drying plant in a direction of transport; establishing high and low-pressure sides of the web-formed material by blowing a hot process air against the web-formed material and drawing the process air through the web-formed material, to dry said material; mixing water leaving the web-formed material with the process air; discharging a first portion of the mixed water and process air as exhaust air and replacing the exhaust air with a corresponding portion of supply air with a low water content; recirculating a second portion of the mixed water and process air; generating a pressure drop in a zone disposed proximate to the high-pressure side of the web-formed material, the zone extending substantially the width of the web-formed material; and distributing the process air in a region upstream of the pressure-drop zone with a distribution member, the distribution member