The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for making
nanofiber webs, wherein a source of process air is utilized to affect the
spray pattern and quality of fibrillated material expressed from a die
assembly including a multi-fluid opening. Appropriately, the
aforementioned process air is defined herein as an alternate or ancillary
air source apart from primary process air, which primary air is
simultaneously supplied with the molten polymeric material to the fiber
forming multi-fluid opening. The ancillary air source of the invention is
further distinct from secondary air, which is also known in the art as
quenching air. The ancillary air can be described as a continuous fluid
curtain of shielding or shaping air.