An enclosed conduit such as a tube, and a method for processing webs with a liquid solution, wherein the web is positioned helically around the periphery of the tube. The tube has openings, such as being porous, at least in the helical path of the web. A liquid solution cushion or bearing is formed between the web and periphery of the tube in at least the helical path of the web by continuously directing the liquid solution outwardly through the openings. In one embodiment, the web is transported by drive rollers or belts against which the web is forced, and edge deflected between the convolutions of a helical rail or band wrapped around the periphery of the tube. In another embodiment, the tube is provided with axially spaced, radially extending protuberances on its periphery for edge deflecting the web along a helical path.