A drum for processing nonwovens has a perforated lateral surface and an interior divided into first and second compartments, respectively associated with first and second lateral surface portions of the drum. A partial vacuum in each of the compartments aspirates and secures a tangentially-engaged nonwoven preform against the lateral surface of the drum for further processing. The drum may be incorporated in a production unit or installation including a spunbond tower for spinning filaments to form the nonwoven preform for tangential delivery to the drum. The resulting nonwoven may thereby be provided with uniform properties.