Schaeffler Introduces FAG TORB Bearings to Enhance Efficiency and Reliability in Paper Machine Operations

With its FAG TORB toroidal roller bearings, Schaeffler offers an innovative solution to specifically meet the requirements of the paper industry. (Image: Schaeffler)

(IN BRIEF) Schaeffler has introduced its FAG TORB toroidal roller bearings as an advanced solution tailored for the demanding conditions of the paper industry. Designed to handle challenges such as high temperatures, moisture, and shaft misalignment, the bearings combine the benefits of spherical and cylindrical roller bearings in a single design, improving machine reliability, efficiency, and product quality. The new offering allows Schaeffler to provide a complete range of bearing solutions for paper machines, supporting various applications including drying cylinders and press rolls. With features such as optimized load distribution, low friction, and the ability to compensate for axial displacement and misalignment, TORB bearings help reduce downtime and total cost of ownership. Their compatibility with standard dimensions and broad size range further enhances flexibility for manufacturers, enabling more efficient and stable production processes.

(PRESS RELEASE) SCHWEINFURT , 6-May-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Schaeffler has introduced its FAG TORB toroidal roller bearings as a specialised solution designed to meet the demanding operational conditions of the paper industry. With this development, the company expands its portfolio to cover all bearing support functions required in paper machines, offering enhanced efficiency, durability, and performance across a wide range of applications.

Paper production environments present significant technical challenges, including high humidity, elevated temperatures, shaft deflection, and continuous high-speed operation over extended periods. The FAG TORB toroidal roller bearings have been engineered to address these conditions, delivering improved reliability and supporting manufacturers in maintaining consistent production quality while reducing operational costs.

The TORB bearings are particularly suited for critical components such as drying and Yankee cylinders, press rolls, and thermo rolls. By combining the functional advantages of spherical and cylindrical roller bearings into a single 2-in-1 design, they enable increased machine availability, extended service life, and improved output quality, even at high production speeds. This design also contributes to lowering the total cost of ownership for paper manufacturers.

With the addition of TORB bearings, Schaeffler now offers a comprehensive range of bearing solutions for paper machines. This includes spherical roller bearings, split spherical roller bearings, self-aligning cylindrical roller bearings, hybrid deep groove ball bearings, and triple-ring bearings, ensuring flexibility across various operational requirements.

In shaft support systems, TORB bearings serve as highly effective non-locating bearings, where precision and adaptability are essential. They perform particularly well when paired with spherical roller bearings acting as locating bearings. This combination allows for effective compensation of thermal expansion and misalignment, helping to extend system lifespan and optimise performance.

The advanced raceway profile of the TORB bearings ensures balanced load distribution and smooth operation. Their design enables automatic adjustment of rolling elements, maintaining stability across different operating conditions. The bearings can accommodate axial displacement of up to ±10% of their width and compensate for shaft misalignment of up to 0.5 degrees without affecting load capacity or service life. Additionally, they reduce axial vibrations, contributing to quieter and more efficient machine operation.

The product range includes multiple series covering shaft diameters from 75 mm to 850 mm, with additional sizes available upon request. Designed in accordance with DIN 616:2000 and ISO 15:2017 standards, the bearings are interchangeable with other standard products on the market. They are available with both tapered and cylindrical bores, as well as different internal clearance classes, and are capable of operating at temperatures of up to 200°C.

Through its advanced engineering capabilities, high-quality products, and comprehensive service offering, Schaeffler aims to support paper manufacturers in improving operational reliability, reducing downtime, and achieving long-term gains in productivity and product quality.

Schaeffler Group – We pioneer motion:

The Schaeffler Group has been driving forward groundbreaking inventions and developments in the field of motion technology for 80 years. With innovative technologies, products, and services for electric mobility, CO₂-efficient drives, chassis solutions and renewable energies, the company is a reliable partner for making motion more efficient, intelligent, and sustainable – over the entire life cycle. Schaeffler describes its comprehensive range of products and services by means of eight product families: From bearing solutions and all types of linear guidance systems through to repair and monitoring services. Schaeffler is with around 110,000 employees and more than 250 locations in 55 countries, one of the world’s largest family-owned companies and one of Germany’s most innovative companies.

Media Contacts:

Gregor le Claire
Head of Communications Bearings & Industrial Solutions
Tel.: +49 9721 91-3888
email: gregor.leclaire@schaeffler.com

Johanna Katzenberger
Communications Bearings & Industrial Solutions
Tel.: +49 9721 91 5125
email: johanna.katzenberger@schaeffler.com

SOURCE: Schaeffler