In a paper making machine, a method and apparatus for separating the web from the former wire and transferring the same to a transfer felt which preferably comprises a press felt wherein the web is carried by the former wire over a sector of a reverser roll so that it is subjected to a centrifugal force which tends to separate the web from the former wire and wherein the transfer felt is guided so that it engages the web over at least a portion of the sector of the reverser roll lapped by the web carrying former wire. An external suction is applied to the web through the transfer felt in the region of the sector of the reverser roll lapped by the web carrying former wire and engaged transfer felt which subjects the web to a suction force which acts in substantially the same direction as the centrifugal force. The transfer felt laps a grooved suction roll which cooperates with external suction applying apparatus for assisting and maintaining the web adhered to the transfer felt between at least two press nips, the suction applying apparatus communicating with the means for applying the external suction to the web.
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