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Bearings and transmission for the paper industry: solutions for paper and cardboard machines
In the paper industry, suitable bearings and housings are key to maintaining continuous production. We explain which bearings are used at each stage and how to get a quote.
Technical team at MR Accesorios Industriales · Updated on September 28, 2026

Bearings for the paper industry: requirements and solutions
The paper industry operates with large machines, high speeds and heavy loads. Bearings for this industry must withstand demanding conditions: high temperatures in the drying sections, constant humidity and fiber contamination. Therefore, selecting the correct bearing is essential to avoid unplanned downtime.
At MR Accesorios Industriales, from Buenos Aires, Argentina, we supply bearings, housings and lubrication systems for different stages of the papermaking process. We work with recognized brands and help you choose the right component for your application.
Below, we review the most commonly used bearing types in the paper industry and their typical applications.
Spherical roller bearings: handle heavy loads and misalignment
Spherical roller bearings are a common choice in the paper industry due to their ability to support combined radial and axial loads, as well as compensate for shaft misalignment. This is key in paper machines, where rollers can experience bending or misalignment due to thermal expansion.
In the MR Accesorios Industriales catalog you will find a wide variety of spherical roller bearings, with over 3700 references. For example, the SKF code 22325 is a spherical roller bearing with a 125 mm bore, widely used in press rolls and dryers.
We also work with other brands such as FAG and LINK-BELT. For example, the FAG 20222-MB is a spherical roller bearing with a brass cage, suitable for high-load applications. If you need a specific size, we can quote it.
CARB bearings: solution for thermal expansion
CARB bearings are single-row roller bearings with self-aligning capability and internal axial displacement. They are ideal in positions where the shaft expands due to heat, such as in drying cylinders of paper machines. By allowing axial displacement within the bearing, they prevent additional internal loads and extend service life.
At MR Accesorios Industriales we supply SKF CARB bearings, such as C 3052 and C 3232. These bearings are used in combination with spherical roller bearings on the fixed side and CARB on the free side, a typical configuration in the paper industry.
If you are designing or maintaining a paper machine, consider this combination to improve reliability. We advise you on the right selection.
SNL split housings: simplified assembly and maintenance
SNL split housings are two-piece housings that facilitate bearing mounting and dismounting, especially on long shafts such as those in paper machines. They allow bearing replacement without dismantling the entire shaft, reducing downtime.
In our catalog we have SKF SNL housings, such as SNL 211 and SNL 216. These housings are combined with insert bearings or spherical roller bearings with adapter sleeves, and can include seals to protect against contamination.
For the paper industry, we recommend housings with suitable seals to prevent the ingress of fibers and moisture. We help you select the correct housing according to the bearing and working conditions.
Lubrication: key to service life in humid environments
Lubrication is critical in the paper industry, where humidity and high temperatures can rapidly degrade lubricants. Inadequate lubrication is one of the main causes of bearing failure.
MR Accesorios Industriales offers centralized lubrication systems and special greases. For example, SKF lubrication systems such as LL/963 and LL/740 allow dosing the correct amount of lubricant at each point, reducing consumption and improving reliability.
We also supply high-quality greases for paper applications, resistant to water washout and high temperatures. We advise you on the most suitable lubrication plan for your machine.
Radial seals: protection against contamination
Radial seals are essential to protect bearings from the ingress of water, fibers and other contaminants. In the paper industry, where there is a lot of humidity and suspended particles, quality seals are indispensable.
At MR Accesorios Industriales we work with a wide range of radial seals, with over 7400 references available. We can quote seals for different shaft diameters and operating conditions.
When choosing a seal, it is important to consider the lip material (NBR, FKM, etc.) and the design (with or without spring). We help you select the correct seal for your paper application.
How to get a quote for bearings for the paper industry
If you need bearings, housings or lubrication systems for your paper plant, at MR Accesorios Industriales we will quote you promptly. We are a company from Buenos Aires, Argentina, with extensive experience in the industrial sector.
You can send us the bearing code (for example, 22325), the dimensions (inner diameter, outer diameter and width) or a photo of the part. With that, we will indicate the available alternative and provide you with a quote.
Contact us via WhatsApp or email. Our technical-commercial team will advise you without obligation.
Frequently asked questions
What bearings are used in paper machines?
Mainly spherical roller bearings and CARB bearings are used, combined with SNL split housings. Spherical roller bearings handle heavy loads and misalignment; CARB bearings allow thermal expansion in drying cylinders.
What is a CARB bearing?
It is a single-row roller bearing with self-aligning capability and internal axial displacement. It is used on the free side of shafts that expand due to heat, such as in paper machine dryers.
What is an SNL split housing?
It is a two-piece housing that facilitates bearing mounting and dismounting without dismantling the entire shaft. It is used on long shafts, such as those in paper machines, to reduce downtime.
How do I avoid lubrication failures in humid environments?
Use greases resistant to water and high temperatures, and consider centralized lubrication systems that dose the exact amount. At MR we advise you on the appropriate lubrication plan.
Can I get a quote for a bearing if I don't have the code?
Yes, you can send us the dimensions (inner diameter, outer diameter and width) or a photo of the part. With that, we identify the bearing and provide you with a quote.
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