Apparatus And Process For Dividing A Nonwoven Web

Abstract

An apparatus and process for dividing a nonwoven web into a plurality of ribbons. An assembly of converging ribbons receive and grip the incoming continuous web to create a travel distance differential. One portion of the continuous web is pulled through the assembly of belts at a different velocity than another adjacent portion of the continuous web. Because adjacent portions of the continuous web travel a different distance over a period of time, the orientation of fibers in the web between the two adjacent portions of the web is altered. As the fibers become oriented in the machine direction, the web begins to split into continuous ribbons of desired width.