Schaeffler brings friction-optimized bearings, linear motion and remanufacturing to InnoTrans 2026
At InnoTrans 2026, Schaeffler will showcase rail bearings, linear motion systems and remanufacturing services aimed at cutting maintenance costs and boosting efficiency and sustainability.
- 21 / 430
- 1996
- 95%
What Happened
At InnoTrans 2026, Schaeffler will present at Hall 21, Booth 430 an extended rail portfolio spanning bearing arrangements for high-speed and freight trains, linear guidance systems, electromechanical actuators, digital services, maintenance services and automation solutions. Schaeffler has exhibited at InnoTrans since the event began in 1996. The company says its solutions target increased availability, efficiency, safety and sustainability across the entire rail vehicle life cycle, reducing maintenance costs and total cost of ownership while deploying resources more effectively.
“Maintaining future viability in rail transport depends not only on new technologies but also on the intelligent use of existing components. That's why we at Schaeffler devise solutions along the entire life cycle – from development and operation through to reconditioning.”
For efficient rail operations, Schaeffler is presenting friction-optimized TAROL axlebox bearings, a key component for reliability and safety. Development relies on computer-aided optimization such as Bearinx OptiKit and experimental verification on Schaeffler's own test rigs, including a newly developed friction torque test rig for grease-lubricated axlebox bearings under realistic operational conditions. The bearings are designed to meet demands for energy efficiency, longer maintenance intervals and greater availability.
“As a roller bearing manufacturer with decades of experience in the development and production of axlebox bearings, we have in-depth knowledge of applications and understand the needs of our customers. Our products and services lead the field in terms of technology while providing genuine added value for customers.”
Schaeffler's linear motion portfolio for rail covers electromechanical drives, ball and roller screws, linear guidance systems and axlebox generators based on direct drives. It provides precise, long-life motion under harsh conditions. EWELLIX actuators and linear guidance solutions are used in door-opening systems in passenger transport, and EWELLIX CAHB linear actuators enable swift, safe raising, lowering and locking of pantographs. In freight transport, drive solutions support automated locking and coupling systems and tarpaulin, flap and discharge door opening systems, replacing pneumatic and hydraulic systems with reliable, energy-efficient and fully networked drives.
Schaeffler's remanufacturing service covers axlebox, gearbox and traction motor bearings as well as slewing rings and track rollers, prolonging component service life and saving resources by up to 95 percent depending on the degree of reconditioning. Schaeffler says it provides local and on-site reconditioning and is expanding this worldwide, aiming with partners to establish regional solutions that combine economic and ecological requirements while boosting operational availability. The company also offers Smart Maintenance Tools, including self-centering mechanical and hydraulic extractors and thermal tools, that help depots shorten maintenance times, save energy and improve operational safety.
Why this matters
Rail operators face pressure to make trains more reliable, efficient and sustainable, and Schaeffler's components target those levers with lower-friction bearings, electric actuators and remanufacturing. The parts and maintenance services can reduce maintenance costs and total cost of ownership, while remanufacturing saves up to 95% of resources and supports regional repair networks. That matters for rail operators, maintenance depots and ultimately passe…
Terms in This Story
- axlebox bearing
- A bearing fitted in the axlebox that supports a rail vehicle's weight while allowing the wheelset to rotate with low friction.
- pantograph
- A roof-mounted device on an electric train that collects power from an overhead contact line.
- remanufacturing
- Rebuilding used components to a serviceable condition to extend their life and save resources.
- total cost of ownership (TCO)
- The full lifetime cost of owning and operating a product, including purchase, maintenance and operation.
Summarised from the linked release; details can be imperfect — always verify against the original source.