There are many different types of specialized bearings used in systems, equipment, and machines throughout plants and production operations in Louisiana. One of the more commonly used types of bearings that are used to support a shaft and the load are pillow block bearings. This is a type of mounted bearing, and the choice of the bearing and the correct installation is critical for the operation of the shaft and the system.
General Design
While there are different variations, all pillow block bearings are similar in overall design and are very easy to identify. They have a mounting bracket that has two feet on the base and a central, round housing that holds the shaft and bearing in place. There can be a solid housing, which is known as an unsplit pillow block, or the design may allow the central, circular cover over the bearing to be removed. This is called a split pillow block. Split pillow blocks are typically used when the bearings need to be replaced frequently due to high loads or adverse operating conditions.
Bearing Options
While the exterior of the pillow block may look similar, there are different types of bearings that can be used with this bearing. Different options in bearings may require regular lubrication and maintenance, or they can be selected based on the specific application, environmental conditions, load factors, or other specifications.
Common bearings used in the pillow block include ball, needle-roller, and roller bearings as well as plain bearings. There are also hydrodynamic bearings used in the pillow block bearings, which provide extended life and performance with limited maintenance.
The cost of these types of bearings typically means they are reserved for mission-critical types of applications and not used for general applications in most Louisiana machines, systems, and facilities.
