Abstract
In addition to achieving a consistent mat formation and binder application, it is the uniformity of subsequent drying and curing that is critical to the production of high-quality thermoset nonwoven mats. Uneven drying and/or curing, especially in the cross-machine direction will result in over/under drying/curing, edge curls, web breaks and high trim and/or scrap factors. This paper reviews several design and set-up techniques that have resulted in cross-machine temperature profiles as low as +/- 1°F on a web 16 feet wide. The recent start-up of a line producing fiberglass mat (roofing shingle substrate) serves to illustrate how the control of air mixing, distribution, and flow through the product can be combined to produce a level web temperature profile. While the results pertain to a new production line, the techniques for reducing web temperature profiles may also be applied to existing dryer equipment