Schaeffler’s plant in Homburg, Germany, has produced its eight-billionth finger follower after 30 years of production, while sister plant Hirschaid has built its 160 millionth roller tappet for the ‘HEMI’ engine after 25 years. Both components are key elements of the valve train in internal combustion and hybrid powertrains.

The finger follower converts camshaft rotation into precise, low-loss lift of the engine valve, and has been produced in Homburg since 1996. Schaeffler said the part has a significant impact on fuel consumption and emissions, and enables functions such as variable valve lift and cylinder deactivation.

(Photo: Schaeffler)

The HEMI roller tappet, made at Hirschaid since 2001, uses engine oil pressure to maintain zero valve lash and compensate for wear and thermal expansion. When a cylinder is deactivated, the tappet is hydraulically unlocked within milliseconds to keep the valve closed.

In a statement, Matthias Zink, CEO Powertrain & Chassis at Schaeffler, said: ‘We are proud to celebrate both a production milestone and a product anniversary for these two precision components, each spanning more than a quarter of a century. My sincere thanks go to all our employees in Hirschaid and Homburg.’

Hirschaid’s roller tappet output is supported by Schaeffler facilities in Homburg, Lahr and Brașov. The company said renewed demand for V8 engines in North America has lifted orders, and from August 2026 its Ingolstadt plant will also help meet the higher volumes.

Source: Schaeffler