Jet tube dryer retainer system

A jet tube dryer retainer system for adapting an existing jet tube dryer of the type using flanged jet tubes manufactured by Coe Manufacturing Co. to receive and retain flangeless replacement jet tubes in such a manner as to allow rapid removal and reinstallation of the replacement jet tubes, permit longitudinal expansion of the replacement jet tubes, and decrease the likelihood of future warpage and misalignment of the replacement jet tubes. Structural members for supporting the replacement jet tubes and strengthening the jet tube dryer frame are welded to the dryer frame at the air-delivery end and chain-drive end of each dryer section. A mounting post locates the narrow, closed end of the respective replacement jet tubes relative to the plane of the respective dryer decks and maintains the replacement tubes in a position which is fixed laterally and vertically while allowing slight longitudinal movement of the narrow closed end of the tube. Readily detachable retainer plates at the air-delivery end of the jet tube dryer secure the open ends of the jet tubes and substantially block entry of forced air into the dryer except through the replacement jet tubes.