Pillow Block Bearing: Fully Utilizing Through 4 Aspects

"Pillow block bearing" is also called "pillow block". It is a common type of "mounted bearing" and often referred to as "block bearing".

Pillow block bearings are essential components in mechanical and industrial applications. They provide support and stability for rotating shafts to ensure smooth and efficient operation. JLCMC will analyze the definition, function, maintenance, and installation of pillow block bearings to help you optimize and apply them more effectively.

What is a pillow block bearing?

Pillow block bearings are a widely used type of mounted bearing. They feature a block-shaped housing that supports and fixes the internal bearing. The bearing is encased within the housing, and the entire assembly is mounted onto a support structure to stabilize and support a rotating shaft. This design allows for easy installation and alignment of the shaft, making pillow block bearings popular in industrial applications, particularly in conveyor systems, fans, and machinery.

Fig. 1 Pillow Block for JLCMC

How do pillow block bearings work?

Pillow block bearings are responsible for fixing and supporting the shaft, and the internal bearings are the real work. Bearings can withstand radial and axial loads, while pillow block bearings reduce vibration and keep the bearing stable when it is working. You can find the applications of pillow bearings in machine frames, support beams, or the bottom of equipment, as well as in applications like linear actuators.

Fig. 2 Pillow bearing applications for linear actuators

How to install pillow bearings

Proper installation of pillow block bearings is also one of the keys to ensuring optimal performance. It is recommended to follow the following steps:

1. Alignment: It is recommended to use auxiliary tools such as laser alignment instrument and bearing alignment instrument for measurement before installation.

2. Installation: Clean in advance before installation and read the installation instructions of the pillow block bearing manufacturer. After installation, confirm whether it is fixed and not offset.

3. Adjustment: When the pillow block bearing is correctly installed, the trial machine is tested in short, medium, long (time) and low, medium, fast (speed). If any abnormality is found, please stop immediately and start the corresponding emergency plan.

How to maintain pillow block bearings

“Maintaining pillow block bearings costs almost the same as purchasing a new one.”
Here are some key maintenance tips:

1. Lubrication: Schedule regular inspections and lubrication for pillow block bearings. The amount of grease to be added depends on the type of lubricant and the actual usage conditions. When selecting lubricants, it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and the specific instructions for the lubricant.

2. Inspection: Focus on inspecting whether the connection between the pillow block bearing and the support point is loose or stripped. Additionally, check for signs of noise, excessive vibration, abnormal heat, or visible cracks during operation.

3. Cleaning: Keep the bearing and pillow block housing clean, ensuring that no foreign objects are present between the pillow block and the support point. Excessive contaminants can lead to premature wear and failure of the pillow block bearing.

The application of pillow block bearings is quite straightforward. By carefully reading and following the guidance in the four key aspects mentioned above, you can ensure that the service life of the pillow block bearing is fully extended, and its performance is maximized. If you want to choose a better and more cost-effective pillow block bearing for your project, you may wish to browse the JLCMC pillow block bearing column. Currently, there are no threshold coupons up to $9 for newcomers. What are you still hesitating about?