Timken Corporation Adds New Version of StatusCheck(TM) Condition Monitoring System

CANTON, Ohio, March 15, 2005 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- As part of its ongoing strategy to offer improved value for customers through a broader and enhanced range of friction management products and services, The Timken Corporation has introduced an intrinsically safe version of StatusCheck(TM) Condition Monitoring System that can be located directly in hazardous areas, such as oil refineries, chemical plants, and mine operations. (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/19991012/TKRLOGO ) The StatusCheck system is a unique wireless system designed to detect and monitor excessive levels of temperature and vibration. This system is a cost-effective method that reports these increases in real time, providing end users with an opportunity to correct a potential problem before it begins. Certified for Class I, Divisions 1 & 2, the intrinsically safe rating is preferred over explosion-proof equipment because there is not enough power present to create an ignition source. The device comes with its own battery and accompanying circuitry that is incapable of creating a spark that could ignite flammable gas. "This new version of StatusCheck with its enhanced safety features allows our customers to constantly monitor their critical equipment, which can lead to improved up-time, quality and safety in hazardous environments," said Brent L. Henderhan, product manager of related products for Timken's Industrial Group. "Plant and maintenance managers now have yet another tool in their arsenal to help fight costly, unplanned downtime." StatusCheck can be mounted via an internal magnet or by a threaded adaptor. It's rugged construction makes it ideally suited for use in harsh environments. Wirelessly monitoring temperature and vibration, its integrated software allows for notification of alarms via computer or cell phone text messages. StatusCheck is a part of Timken's line of condition monitoring solutions, which includes handheld instruments, continuous monitoring devices and online systems. Timken's offering of condition monitoring solutions provides customers with a one-stop shop for all their friction management solutions needs. All Timken(R) products are backed by highly trained customer service and technical support personnel. The Timken Corporation is a subsidiary of The Timken Company (NYSE: TKR) ( http://www.timken.com ), a leading global manufacturer of highly engineered bearings and alloy steels and a provider of related products and services with operations in 27 countries. The company reported record sales of $4.5 billion in 2004 and employed approximately 26,000 at year-end.