August 28, 2007 -- The Timken Company announced that it recently supplied Norwegian mining company Rana Gruber AS with cartridge bearings that significantly increased the load capacity of freight cars transporting iron ore. Rana Gruber is Timken's first rail customer in Norway, where extensive upgrading of rail freight operations is expected within the coming years.

Rana Gruber's goal was to modernize its fleet and increase load capacity. This involved installing new axles and wheels, and Timken proposed a solution that included Timken® AP-2(TM) Class K cartridge bearings set in adapters that permit simpler assembly and easier maintenance. The adapter solution is common in North American freight applications and is becoming more popular in Europe. Timken's solution has enabled Rana Gruber to increase load capacity on its box cars by 20 percent and significantly lower operating costs.

With tapered roller bearings, seals and housing in a pre-lubricated package, the compact and lightweight AP-2 design supports heavier weights and improves safety and reliability. Integrated HDL sealing technology protects against bearing malfunction and improves fuel efficiency by operating with lower torque.

Source: The Timken Company