Self-loading controlled deflection roll

A self-loading controlled deflection roll for use in engaging a mating roll along a nip line of contact therebetween, said roll comprising:

• a stationary support beam;
• a rotatable roll shell disposed about the beam and defining a space therebetween;
• end support means pivotally supporting the ends of the support beam;
• roll end assembly means secured on each end of the roll shell, including a ring gear at one end of the roll shell, said ring gear being rigidly secured relative to the end of the roll shell;
• bearing housings disposed about the ends of the roll shell and movably linked and supported on the end support means;
• bearings mounted in the bearing housings intermediate the roll end assembly means which rotatably support the roll shell and maintain rigid alignment between the roll shell and the bearing housings;
• roll shell support element means mounted in the beam in the space for providing laterally-movable and rotatable support of the roll shell relative to the beam;
• drive means mounted in a bearing housing, independent of the end support means, the drive means including a gear engaging the ring gear for providing rotatable movement of the roll shell relative to the support beam.