Abstract: A large diameter and axially long cylindrical roll is fabricated from axially short cylindrical roll sections to provide a roll with circumferentially spaced, parallel and axially extending steam passages through the outer cylindrical wall of the roll. Through bore portions, which are gun drilled in the short roll sections, are aligned with cylindrical pins that also provide backing material for the annular welds used to join the roll sections. By utilizing pins of weld backing material in the bore portions, the bores may be formed very close to the outer cylindrical surface of the roll, thereby enhancing heat transfer in the completed roll.