CANTON, Ohio, April 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Timken is helping industrial customers identify potential machine malfunctions before catastrophic failures occur with StatusCheck(TM), a wireless condition monitoring system that transmits vibration and temperature data. Each StatusCheck system includes up to 100 wireless transmitters, a data receiver and a companion software program.

StatusCheck can be used to measure temperature and vibration in bearings, bearing housings, gear boxes, motors and other industrial devices.

"Monitoring temperature and vibration trends can signal potential issues early on. StatusCheck helps maintenance teams to schedule repairs and avoid costly unscheduled downtime," said Matt Schleich, global manager -- new products and services. "It is an example of our expanding line of condition monitoring devices within our portfolio of friction management solutions, which assist end users in maximizing machine uptime and minimizing maintenance costs."

Created by Timken engineers, StatusCheck uses wireless radio frequency communications, approved by the Federal Communications Commission, to transmit critical machine data. Transmitters can be mounted with magnets or bolts, providing flexible mounting options on hard-to-reach machines.

Data is transmitted to a central receiver that is connected to a personal computer on which StatusCheck software has been installed. The software displays data in real time, logs information and triggers alarms when set points are surpassed. When alarms are triggered, the software will notify maintenance personnel by e-mail, cell phones or personal digital assistants.

"StatusCheck was designed based on our knowledge of bearing performance and rotating machinery. We continue to bring customers the latest technology in products and services that are bearing related and system focused," said Mr. Schleich.

The Timken Company (NYSE: TKR, www.timken.com) is a leading global manufacturer of highly engineered bearings and alloy steels and a provider of related products and services with operations in 29 countries. The company recorded 2003 sales of $3.8 billion and employed approximately 26,000 at year-end.

Media Contact: Eric J. Shirley, Communications Manager, (330) 471-7105

Investor Contact: Kevin R. Beck, Manager - Investor Relations,

(330) 471-7181

SOURCE The Timken Company