The motion technology company
Schaeffler and mobility solutions provider
Alstom have signed a partnership agreement that sees Schaeffler become a partner for rolling bearing technology in the Alstom Alliance programme. For many years, Schaeffler has supplied Alstom with axlebox bearings, along with housings, drive bearings for rail vehicle gearboxes and motors, and slewing rings for underground trains and trams.
Sascha Zaps, Schaeffler AG’s CEO of the bearings and industrial solutions division, said: “We are happy that our customer Alstom has included us in its Alstom Alliance partner programme . Together, we want to not only achieve but also continuously improve our high standards of quality and sustainability. The partnership will enable a long-term exchange of experience and knowledge, which will especially benefit the development and design of rolling bearings and contribute to reliable and safe rail transport.”
Alstom launched the Alstom Alliance programme in 2015 with the aim of building long-term partnerships with strategic suppliers ‘for the development and implementation of innovative, reliable and more sustainable solutions, covering all phases from conceptual design to delivery’.
Regarding sustainability, in the area of bearing remanufacturing or reconditioning, Schaeffler is currently expanding its offerings in order to support Alstom regionally with this service and contribute toward achieving the train manufacturer’s sustainability targets. Bearing reconditioning can result in resource savings of up to 95%, depending on the extent of reconditioning — and Schaeffler offers the same warranty as for new products.
The two companies participate in various initiatives and associations to help improve the effectiveness of sustainability management through use of standardised measures and processes, and through their membership in the ‘Railsponsible’ initiative, the two companies say they are underscoring their commitment to greater sustainability in the railway industry.