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What is Pillow Block Bearings and Types Of Pillow Block Bearing
Pillow Block Bearings
A pillow block bearing consists of a mounting bracket (pillow block) that houses a bearing and is used in low-torque, light load applications.
With this configuration, the pillow block is bolted to a foundation, securing it, while the shaft and the inner ring of the bearing are free to rotate. Usually made of gray cast iron, pillow blocks come in two types, split or unsplit. With split pillow blocks the housing element or cap can be separated from the base. An unsplit pillow block is made from one solid piece.
Often, the terms pillow block bearing and plumber block bearing are used synonymously but the two are different devices. Both are designed to be mounted to a surface through mounting holes on the base of the block. They differ in that plumber block bearings do contain an inner bearing and they are also designed for higher loads and more corrosive environments.
Read more ; What is Plummer Block | Diagram , Advantages

Pillow Block Bearings Types
Each type of bearing has a different purpose, and is designed to best suit the applications and uses they’re needed for.
- Standard Ball Bearings: This type of bearing is made to be friction free, in order to perform at a high level while carrying large capacity loads. A cage aligns the ball bearings properly, held within in an inner and outer ring. This maintains a smooth motion for optimal performance.
- Needle Roller Bearings: These bearings are smaller than their counter-parts, the roller bearings. But they operate similarly, just with a smaller cylinder-like roller.
- Plain Ball Bearings: Depending on the use for these bearings, they’re most often constructed from a bronze and metal alloy, though some types are made from plastic. They are frequently used in linear types of applications, where they can maintain large loads while still performing at a high level. These bearings require lubrication in order to function effectively.
- Roller Bearings: These are the “big brother” of the needle roller bearing. They are applied to rotational motions, using a roller or cylinder design between an inner ring and an outer ring. There are varying types, each having their own uses. The specifications of each type is also different, depending on their application.
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