"With the implementation of this specialized roll service, we will be able to better serve our customers here in North America," said Richard Berry, Senior Vice President Sales, Voith Paper Fabric & Roll Systems, North America. "Our West Monroe facility is at a convenient shipping location for most paper mills across the United States, allowing our customers to reduce freight costs and limit downtime."

To prepare for its new spreader roll workshop in North America, Voith invested in new equipment designed for rebuilds and repairs and added it to its West Monroe plant.

For customers needing new spreader rolls, Voith’s offers EvoStretch - spreader roll that delivers a long life and smooth operation by utilizing a high-performance ceramic bearing that creates a ‘self-healing’ effect through smoothing the bearing races. SolarStretch, a polyurethane sleeve for spreader rolls, is twice as abrasion-resistant as standard rubber sleeve. Metal-surfaced rolls, including chrome-plated and tungsten carbide-coated rolls, are also available.

"We look forward to fulfilling our customer’s supply, service and repair needs at the quality level they have come to expect," Berry added.