ASI, Division of Thermal Technologies Inc., designed and manufactured a drying system for a Midwest-based manufacturer of silicone release liners. The customer’s current equipment was unable to meet their operational demands of wider web widths, larger roll diameters and a greater range of substrates.

The 45' long, two-zone flotation drying system is powered by natural gas. The dryer is capable of heating the web to 450°F (232°C) to cure applied coatings. Flotation drying technology keeps the web drying profile efficient and the paper curl to a minimum, according to ASI. The drive and control system consists of Allen Bradley AC vector drives and a safety PLC system that monitors all machine functions and the interlocked guard and operator safety systems.

The drying system increased the customer’s maximum web width from 36" to 65" and more than doubled the maximum web speed from 400 to 1,000 ft/min.