Lloyd Hornbostel was born August 1, 1900, in Bayshore, Long Island and graduated with honors from Lehigh University and the Westinghouse School of Mechanical Design.

He came to the Beloit Iron Works in 1926 and served as Vice-President of Engineering until his retirement in 1959. Lloyd was known for his energy, creativity, and prolific contributions to engineering. He was largely responsible for enabling the development of wide, high-speed, and highly productive modern paper machines. His work not only cemented Beloit Corporation’s leadership in papermaking machinery but also brought practical, easy-to-maintain, and elegant solutions to complex design and operational challenges.

Harry C. Moore, then president of Beloit Iron Works, remarked at the time of Lloyd’s retirement:

“I sincerely regret this announcement. However, Lloyd has assured us that we can continue to call on him for advice and guidance. All of us are surely going to miss a truly great man and personal friend.”

Lloyd continued as a technical consultant to Beloit Corporation after retirement and remained deeply engaged in his community, particularly through the YWCA and St. Paul Episcopal Church.

His many technical innovations include:

Air-loaded headboxes for improved, faster sheet formation.

Enclosed dryer gearing and differential drives allowing faster operation without tearing paper.

Air-operated guides for felts and wires, enabling cost-efficient speed increases.

Suction rolls to transfer partially formed paper webs reliably.

Numerous practical solutions such as the application of large anti-friction bearings and simplified oil cleaners to reduce downtime and maintenance.

Lloyd Hornbostel’s legacy lives on through his pioneering contributions to papermaking technology and his dedication to community service. His work significantly strengthened Beloit Corporation’s position in the industry and contributed to the economic well-being of Beloit.

He passed away on September 26, 1964.