Schaeffler at InnoTrans 2026 (Hall 21, Booth 430) Innovations for better availability, efficiency and sustainability in rail transport

2026-07-30 | Schweinfurt

• Efficient and reliable solutions for passenger and freight transport
• Friction-optimized axlebox bearings boost energy efficiency and availability
• Linear motion technology for precise motion under demanding conditions

The requirements placed on modern rail transport are more complex than ever: Vehicles need to be more reliable, more efficient and more sustainable in operation while requirements are also becoming increasingly demanding in terms of automation, maintenance and service life. These are the trends that Schaeffler will be addressing at InnoTrans 2026. The Motion Technology Company will be presenting an extended portfolio for the rail industry, ranging from bearing arrangements for high-speed and freight trains, linear guidance systems, electromechanical actuators, digital services and maintenance services all the way through to automation solutions.

As Dr. Michael Holzapfel, Global Sector Lead Rail Bearings & Industrial Solutions at Schaeffler comments: "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."

Schaeffler has exhibited at InnoTrans since the event's inception in 1996. At the fair, the company will be demonstrating how it contributes to increased availability, efficiency, safety and sustainability with its bearing, motion and service solutions along the entire rail vehicle life cycle. The aim is to reduce maintenance costs and total cost of ownership (TCO) while deploying resources more effectively.

Less friction, more availability: axlebox bearings for efficient rail operations
At the fair, Schaeffler will be presenting optimized, friction-reduced axlebox bearings as a key component for reliability and safety in rail transport. Schaeffler is forging ahead with the development of friction-optimized TAROL axlebox bearings for rail vehicles to meet ever more demanding requirements in terms of energy-efficiency, longer maintenance intervals and greater availability in rail operations.

As Dr. Michael Holzapfel underlines: "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."

The company's development work is based on computer-aided design and optimization processes such as Bearinx OptiKit as well as on experimental verification procedures on its own test rigs. These include a newly developed friction torque test rig for testing grease-lubricated axlebox bearings under realistic operational conditions.

This makes it possible to precisely quantify friction losses, further develop bearing designs in a targeted way, and validate calculation models using real measurement data.

Precise motion under harsh conditions: linear motion technology for rail vehicles
The trade fair presence will also focus on linear motion technology for rail applications. Schaeffler's portfolio covers different levels of complexity – from individual components through to mechatronic systems – providing precise, long-life and reliable motion even under tough ambient conditions.

The spotlight will be on four key technologies: electromechanical drives, ball and roller screws, linear guidance systems and axlebox generators based on technology for direct drives. Electromechanical EWELLIX actuators and linear guidance solutions are used in door-opening systems in passenger transport, for example. Furthermore, EWELLIX CAHB linear actuators enable swift, safe raising, lowering and locking of pantographs.

The company's drive and system solutions also make a major contribution in freight transport, where they support automated locking and coupling systems as well as applications such as tarpaulin, flap and discharge door opening systems. Electromechanical actuators replace pneumatic and hydraulic systems, thus enabling reliable, energy-efficient and fully networked drives for modern freight wagons.

Resource recycling: remanufacturing as a component of sustainable mobility
As far as Schaeffler is concerned, sustainability in rail transport goes way beyond the mere use of efficient products. The company's remanufacturing service for axlebox, gearbox and traction motor bearings as well as for slewing rings and track rollers represents an approach that prolongs the service life of existing components thereby saving resources. Resource savings of up to 95 percent can be achieved depending on the degree of reconditioning.

Schaeffler provides "local and on-site reconditioning for its customers", a policy it is continuing to expand on a worldwide scale. The goal is to work with partners to establish regional solutions that combine economic and ecological requirements while boosting operational availability.

This philosophy also includes Smart Maintenance Tools that allow Schaeffler to make maintenance safer, more efficient and more material friendly. The portfolio covers self-centering mechanical and hydraulic extractors as well as thermal tools that enable fast and efficient processes and keep damage to a minimum, especially when handling large bearings, couplers and wheels. These solutions help depots to shorten maintenance times, save energy and improve operational safety.

At InnoTrans 2026, Schaeffler will be presenting its portfolio for rail vehicles and maintenance, thereby underlining its role as a technology partner to the rail industry.

You can find more information about Schaeffler's solutions for rail transport here:
Schaeffler Solutions for Rail | Schaeffler medias