The Ultimate Guide to Pillow Block Bearings: What They Are, Differences, and How to Choose the Right One

Bearings are essential components in various mechanical systems, playing a vital role in reducing friction, supporting loads, and ensuring smooth motion. Among the many types of bearings, pillow block bearings stand out due to their versatility, durability, and ease of installation. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what pillow block bearings are, the differences between pillow block and flange block bearings, and how to select the right pillow block bearing for your application.

1. What is a Pillow Block Bearing?

pillow block bearing
pillow block bearing

A pillow block bearing is a mounted bearing that supports a rotating shaft. The bearing itself is housed in a block that is mounted on a surface, making it ideal for installations where the bearing needs to support heavy loads or where alignment is critical. This bearing type is commonly used in a variety of industries, including automotive, industrial machinery, and agricultural equipment.

The pillow block housing is designed to fit the bearing and typically features a bearing insert (often ball bearings or roller bearings) with a shaft. The housing provides support for the bearing and helps keep it in place, reducing the risk of misalignment or vibration. This design makes it easier to replace or maintain the bearing when needed.

For more detailed information on pillow block bearings, you can refer to the BYWB Bearing .

Advantages of Pillow Block Bearings:

  • Ease of Installation: Pillow block bearings come pre-assembled, which reduces installation time and cost.
  • Alignment Flexibility: The bearing housing allows for some alignment adjustments during installation, ensuring better performance.
  • Durability: Pillow block bearings are known for their robust construction and ability to handle high loads and harsh environments.

2. What is the Difference Between a Pillow Block and a Flange Block?

pillow block vs flange block bearing
pillow block vs flange block bearing

Both pillow block and flange block bearings are types of mounted bearings designed to support rotating shafts. However, there are distinct differences between the two that can impact which one is suitable for a particular application.

Pillow Block Bearings:

  • Shape and Design: As the name suggests, pillow block bearings are housed in a “pillow” shaped block, which has a flat bottom for mounting on a horizontal surface.
  • Mounting: Pillow block bearings typically have a set of mounting bolts and can be fixed with ease onto machinery or structures.
  • Application: These bearings are ideal for applications where the bearing is mounted on a horizontal surface, such as conveyor systems, motors, and HVAC equipment.

Flange Block Bearings:

  • Shape and Design: Flange block bearings, on the other hand, feature a housing with a flange that extends out from the bearing. This design allows for easy mounting to a vertical surface or a flange on the shaft.
  • Mounting: Flange bearings are often mounted on a vertical plane and feature four or more bolt holes around the flange to secure the bearing.
  • Application: Flange bearings are frequently used in applications where vertical mounting or a more compact bearing is needed, such as in gearboxes or smaller motors.

For more on the differences, check out this article from https://bywbbearing.com/.

Key Differences:

  • Mounting Orientation: Pillow block bearings are typically mounted on horizontal surfaces, while flange block bearings are designed for vertical mounting.
  • Space Considerations: Flange block bearings may be more compact, with a flanged housing that can be more convenient for tight spaces.

3. How to Select the Right Pillow Block Bearing?

pillow block bearing types
pillow block bearing types

Choosing the right pillow block bearing for your application is crucial for ensuring optimal performance, longevity, and safety. Several factors need to be considered before making a selection.

3.1. Load and Speed Requirements

The bearing’s load capacity and the speed at which it will operate are critical factors to consider. Make sure that the pillow block bearing you choose can handle the dynamic and static loads without causing damage or premature wear. Additionally, high-speed applications may require bearings with specific features, such as high-speed ball bearings.

3.2. Shaft Size

The pillow block bearing you select must match the size of the shaft it will support. Bearing inserts come in various bore sizes, so it’s essential to choose the correct size for your shaft to ensure proper fit and function. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for compatible shaft sizes.

3.3. Environmental Conditions

Consider the environment in which the bearing will operate. For example, if the bearing is exposed to moisture, dust, or chemicals, you may need a bearing with seals or special coatings to protect it from contaminants. Some pillow block bearings are designed for heavy-duty environments and can tolerate extreme temperatures, high humidity, or even underwater conditions.

3.4. Insert Bearing Type

Pillow block bearings come in different insert bearing types, such as ball bearings and roller bearings. Ball bearings are typically used for low-speed, light-load applications, while roller bearings are more suitable for heavy loads and higher speeds. Consider which type best matches your needs.

3.5. Material Selection

The material of the bearing housing and insert is also important. Common materials for pillow block bearings include cast iron, stainless steel, and thermoplastic. The material should be chosen based on the application’s load requirements, environmental conditions, and desired lifespan. For corrosive or high-temperature applications, stainless steel pillow block bearings might be the best option.

3.6. Mounting and Alignment

Pillow block bearings come with various mounting options, such as bolt holes or slots, and can be adjusted for alignment during installation. Ensure that the bearing housing allows for easy mounting and proper alignment with the shaft to reduce the risk of premature wear or failure.

For a more detailed look at selecting the right pillow block bearing, check out this guide from https://bywbbearing.com/.

Quick Tips for Selection:

  • Choose a bearing that can withstand the expected load and speed.
  • Ensure that the bearing matches the shaft size.
  • Consider environmental factors and choose a suitable material.
  • Select the correct bearing type for your application.

4.Pillow Block Bearing Material Types and Applications

version 1.0.0
version 1.0.0

The material used in pillow block bearings plays a significant role in determining their performance, durability, and suitability for specific applications. The choice of material influences the bearing’s resistance to wear, its load-bearing capacity, and its ability to withstand extreme environmental conditions such as high temperatures, moisture, or corrosive substances.

4.1. Cast Iron Pillow Block Bearings

Material: Cast iron is one of the most common materials used for the housing of pillow block bearings. It is durable, cost-effective, and offers excellent strength and wear resistance. Cast iron also has superior damping properties, which help reduce vibrations.

Applications:

  • Industrial machinery: Cast iron pillow block bearings are widely used in heavy-duty industrial applications, such as conveyor systems, motor-driven machines, and pumps.
  • Agricultural equipment: These bearings are also ideal for agricultural machinery that operates under high loads and dusty or harsh environments.

Advantages:

  • High strength and durability
  • Good vibration damping
  • Cost-effective for standard applications

4.2. Stainless Steel Pillow Block Bearings

Material: Stainless steel pillow block bearings are used when a higher level of corrosion resistance is required. Stainless steel is resistant to rust, moisture, and many chemicals, making it ideal for use in harsh environments.

Applications:

  • Food processing: Stainless steel pillow block bearings are commonly used in the food and beverage industry, where hygiene and resistance to corrosion are paramount.
  • Pharmaceuticals: These bearings are used in pharmaceutical equipment that requires frequent cleaning and resistance to contamination.
  • Marine applications: Stainless steel bearings are suitable for use in marine environments due to their resistance to saltwater corrosion.

Advantages:

  • Excellent corrosion resistance
  • Suitable for high-hygiene environments
  • Ideal for use in harsh or marine environments

4.3. Thermoplastic Pillow Block Bearings

Material: Thermoplastic pillow block bearings are made from advanced plastic polymers, such as nylon or acetal. These materials are lightweight, resistant to chemicals, and provide self-lubricating properties, reducing the need for external lubrication.

Applications:

  • Light-duty machinery: These bearings are perfect for light-load applications where weight reduction and corrosion resistance are key factors.
  • Packaging machinery: Thermoplastic pillow block bearings are used in packaging systems, especially those that require frequent movement and minimal lubrication.
  • Electronics: In some cases, thermoplastic bearings are used in sensitive electronic equipment due to their non-conductive properties.

Advantages:

  • Lightweight and resistant to corrosion
  • Self-lubricating properties reduce maintenance
  • Suitable for light-duty applications

4.4. Aluminum Pillow Block Bearings

Material: Aluminum pillow block bearings are lightweight and resistant to corrosion. While they don’t offer the same load-bearing capacity as cast iron or steel, aluminum is ideal for applications where weight is a critical factor.

Applications:

  • Robotics and automation: The low weight of aluminum pillow block bearings makes them perfect for use in robotic arms and automation equipment, where weight reduction is essential.
  • Transportation equipment: These bearings are used in certain transportation machinery, including conveyor belts and small motors, where weight is an important consideration.

Advantages:

  • Lightweight and resistant to corrosion
  • Suitable for lightweight applications
  • Provides better performance in non-heavy-duty environments

4.5. Bronze Pillow Block Bearings

Material: Bronze pillow block bearings are designed for high-load, high-temperature applications. Bronze is a copper alloy that offers excellent wear resistance, particularly in dry and heavy-duty applications where lubrication may be limited.

Applications:

  • Heavy industrial machinery: Bronze pillow block bearings are often used in mining, construction, and heavy equipment industries due to their ability to withstand extreme loads and temperatures.
  • High-temperature environments: These bearings are ideal for use in furnace or engine components where other materials may fail due to heat.

Advantages:

  • High load-bearing capacity
  • Excellent wear resistance in heavy-duty applications
  • Performs well in high-temperature environments

5. Choosing the Right Material for Your Application

The material of a pillow block bearing should be selected based on the specific requirements of the application, including:

  • Load capacity: Heavier loads generally require materials like cast iron, steel, or bronze.
  • Operating environment: If the bearing is exposed to moisture, chemicals, or high temperatures, materials like stainless steel or bronze may be the best options.
  • Weight considerations: For lighter-duty applications or where weight reduction is important, thermoplastic or aluminum bearings may be ideal.

Quick Material Comparison:

MaterialStrengthCorrosion ResistanceTemperature ResistanceBest For
Cast IronHighModerateModerateHeavy industrial applications
Stainless SteelModerateExcellentHighMarine, food processing, pharmaceuticals
ThermoplasticLowGoodLowLight-duty machinery, packaging
AluminumModerateGoodModerateRobotics, transportation, automation
BronzeHighExcellentVery HighHigh-load, high-temperature environments

 6.Pillow block bearing size chart

Unit No.Shaft DiaDimensions (mm)Bolt SizeWeight 
dHLJANN1H1HoBSA3(mm)(kg)
(in)(mm)
UCP20112.00 30.212595321318135727.411.5–M100.72
UCP20215.00 30.212595321318135727.411.5–M100.66
UCP20317.00 30.212595321318135727.411.5–M100.66
UCP20112.00 30.21279538131914613112.7–M100.76
UCP201-81/2 ‘30.21279538131914613112.7–M100.76
UCP202  15.00 30.21279538131914613112.7–M100.74
UCP202-99/16 ‘30.21279538131914613112.7–M100.74
UCP202-105/8 ‘30.21279538131914613112.7–M100.74
UCP203 17.00 30.21279538131914613112.7–M100.72
UCP203-1111/16 ‘30.21279538131914613112.7–M100.72
UCP204 20.00 33.31279538131914643112.746.4M100.7
UCP204-1245720.00 33.31279538131914643112.746.4M100.7
UCP205  25.00 36.5140105381319157134.114.348M100.76
UCP205-14 3/4 ‘36.5140105381319157134.114.348M100.76
UCP205-1515/16 ‘36.5140105381319157134.114.348M100.76
UCP205-161′36.5140105381319157134.114.348M100.76
UCP206 30.00 42.9160121441721168238.115.952M141.25
UCP206-17 1-1/16′42.9160121441721168238.115.952M141.25
UCP206-18 1-1/8′42.9160121441721168238.115.952M141.25
UCP206-19 1-3/16′42.9160121441721168238.115.952M141.25
UCP206-201-1/4′42.9160121441721168238.115.952M141.25
UCP20735.00 47.6167126481721179242.917.559M141.55
UCP207-20 1-1/4′47.6167126481721179242.917.559M141.55
UCP207-21 1-5/16′47.6167126481721179242.917.559M141.55
UCP207-22 1-3/8′47.6167126481721179242.917.559M141.55
UCP207-231-7/16′47.6167126481721179242.917.559M141.55
UCP20840.00 49.2180137521721189949.21968.2M141.9
UCP208-24 1-1/2′49.2180137521721189949.21968.2M141.9
UCP208-251-9/16′49.2180137521721189949.21968.2M141.9
UCP20945.00 541901465417212010649.21970M142.2
UCP209-26 1-5/8′541901465417212010649.21970M142.2
UCP209-27 1-11/16′541901465417212010649.21970M142.2
UCP209-281-3/4′541901465417212010649.21970M142.2
UCP21050.00 57.22061596020252111451.61976M162.75
UCP210-30  1-7/8′57.22061596020252111451.61976M162.75
UCP210-311-15/16′57.22061596020252111451.61976M162.75
UCP210-322′57.22061596020252111451.61976M162.75
UCP21155.00 63.52171726020252312555.622.276M163.3
UCP211-32  2′63.52171726020252312555.622.276M163.3
UCP211-342-1/8′63.52171726020252312555.622.276M163.3
UCP211-352-3/16′63.52171726020252312555.622.276M163.3
UCP21260.00 69.92381867020252413765.125.489M164.7
UCP212-36  2-1/4′69.92381867020252413765.125.489M164.7
UCP212-382-3/8′69.92381867020252413765.125.489M164.7
UCP212-392-7/16′69.92381867020252413765.125.489M164.7
UCP21365.00 76.22622037025302614965.125.489M205.6
UCP213-402-1/2′76.22622037025302614965.125.489M205.6
UCP21470.00 79.42662107225302715574.630.298M206.6
UCP214-442-3/4′79.42662107225302715574.630.298M206.6
UCP21575.00 82.62742177425302816277.833.397M207.3
UCP215-47 2-15/16 ‘82.62742177425302816277.833.397M207.3
UCP215-483′82.62742177425302816277.833.397M207.3
UCP21680.00 88.92922327825303017482.633.3110M209
UCP21785.00 95.23102478325283218685.734.1114.2M2010.8
UCP217-523-1/4′95.23102478325283218685.734.1114.2M2010.8
UCP21890.00 101.6326262882730331989639.7124M2213
UCP218-563-1/2′101.6326262882730331989639.7124M2213
UCP220100.00 1153803059530364022510842–M2416
Unit No.Shaft DiaDimensions(mm)Bolt Size (mm)Weight (kg)
dHJA2A1ANLBszA3
(in)(mm)
UCFL201 1211390151125.512603112.733.3–M100.51
UCFL201-81/2′11390151125.512603112.733.3–M100.51
UCFL202 1511390151125.512603112.733.3–M100.51
UCFL202-9 9/16′11390151125.512603112.733.3–M100.51
UCFL202-105/8′11390151125.512603112.733.3–M100.51
UCFL203 1711390151125.512603112.733.3–M100.51
UCFL203-1111/16′11390151125.512603112.733.3–M100.51
UCFL204 2011390151125.512603112.733.338.2M100.51
UCFL204-123/4′11390151125.512603112.733.338.2M100.51
UCFL205 2513099161327166834.114.335.840M140.6
UCFL205-14 7/8′13099161327166834.114.335.840M140.6
UCFL205-15 15/16′13099161327166834.114.335.840M140.6
UCFL205-161′13099161327166834.114.335.840M140.6
UCFL206 30148117181331168038.115.940.244M140.9
UCFL206-17 1-1/16′ 148117181331168038.115.940.244M140.9
UCFL206-18 1-1/8 ‘148117181331168038.115.940.244M140.9
UCFL206-19 1-3/16 ‘148117181331168038.115.940.244M140.9
UCFL206-201 1/4′148117181331168038.115.940.244M140.9
UCFL207 35160130191534169042.917.544.448.5M141.2
UCFL207-20 1-1/4 ‘160130191534169042.917.544.448.5M141.2
UCFL207-21 1-5/16 ‘160130191534169042.917.544.448.5M141.2
UCFL207-22 1-3/8 ‘160130191534169042.917.544.448.5M141.2
UCFL207-231 7/16′160130191534169042.917.544.448.5M141.2
UCFL208 401751442115361610049.21951.255.1M141.5
UCFL208-24 1-1/2 ‘1751442115361610049.21951.255.1M141.5
UCFL208-251 9/16′1751442115361610049.21951.255.1M141.5
UCFL209 451881482216381910849.21952.257M161.9
UCFL209-26 1-5/8 ‘1881482216381910849.21952.257M161.9
UCFL209-27 1-11/16 ‘1881482216381910849.21952.257M161.9
UCFL209-281 3/4′1881482216381910849.21952.257M161.9
UCFL210 501971572216401911551.61954.660M162.2
UCFL210-30 1-7/8 ‘1971572216401911551.61954.660M162.2
UCFL210-31 1-15/16 ‘1971572216401911551.61954.660M162.2
UCFL210-322′1971572216401911551.61954.660M162.2
UCFL211 552241842518431912555.622.258.463M163
UCFL211-32 2′2241842518431912555.622.258.463M163
UCFL211-34 2-1/8 ‘2241842518431912555.622.258.463M163
UCFL211-352 3/16′2241842518431912555.622.258.463M163
UCFL212 602502022918482314065.125.468.773.5M204
UCFL212-36 2-1/4 ‘2502022918482314065.125.468.773.5M204
UCFL212-38 2-3/8 ‘2502022918482314065.125.468.773.5M204
UCFL212-392 7/16′2502022918482314065.125.468.773.5M204
UCFL213 652582103022502315565.125.469.774.5M205
UCFL213-402 1/2′2582103022502315565.125.469.774.5M205
UCFL214 702652163122542316074.630.275.480M205.6
UCFL214-442 3/4′2652163122542316074.630.275.480M205.6
UCFL215 752752253422562316577.833.378.582.5M206.2
UCFL215-47 2-15/16 ‘2752253422562316577.833.378.582.5M206.2
UCFL215-483′2752253422562316577.833.378.582.5M206.2
UCFL216802902333422582518082.633.383.389M227.8
UCFL217 853052483624632519085.734.187.693.1M229.8
UCFL217-523 1/4′3052483624632519085.734.187.693.1M229.8
UCFL218 90320265402468252059639.796.3102M2212.4
UCFL218-563 1/2′320265402468252059639.796.3102M2212.4
Bearing No.Shaft Dia                    Dimensions (mm)Bolt SizeWeight (kg)
dLJA2A1AENS
(in.)(mm)
UCF201127654151125.530.911.513.9M100.5
UCF201-81/2′
UCF20215
UCF202-105/8′
UCF20317
UCF203-1111/16′
UCF204-123/4′8664151125.533.311.517M100.63
UCF20420
UCF205-147/8′957016132735.811.517.4M100.8
UCF205-1515/16′
UCF20525
UCF205-161′
UCF206-181 1/8′1088318133140.211.518.2M101.2
UCF20630
UCF206-191 3/16′
UCF206-201 1/4′
UCF207-201 1/4′1179217153444.41418.8M121.6
UCF207-211 5/16′
UCF207-221 3/8′
UCF20735
UCF207-231 7/16′
UCF208-241 1/2′13010221153651.21421.4M121.9
UCF208-251 9/16′
UCF20840
UCF209-261 5/8′13710522163852.21621.4M142.3
UCF209-271 11/16′
UCF209-281 3/4′
UCF20945
UCF210-301 7/8′14311122164054.61824.6M162.6
UCF210-311-15/16′
UCF21050
UCF211-322′16213025184358.41827.7M163.8
UCF211-342 1/8′
UCF21155
UCF211-352 3/16′
UCF212-362 1/4′17514329184868.71830.9M164.8
UCF21260
UCF212-382 3/8′
UCF212-392 7/16′
UCF213-402 1/2′18714930225069.71834.1M166
UCF21365
UCF214-442 3/4′19315231225475.41834.1M166.3
UCF21470
UCF2157520015934225678.51837.3M167.2
UCF215-483′
UCF2168020816534225783.32237.3M207.23
UCF217-523 1/4′8522017536246387.62334.1M208.9
UCF217
UCF218-563 1/2′9023518740256896.32339.7M2011.6
UCF218

7. Conclusion

Pillow block bearings are essential components in many mechanical systems, offering robust support for rotating shafts in various industries. Understanding what pillow block bearings are, how they differ from flange block bearings, and how to select the right one for your application can ensure optimal performance and longevity of your equipment.

When choosing a pillow block bearing, be sure to consider factors such as load capacity, speed, shaft size, environmental conditions, and material selection. By taking the time to carefully evaluate your needs,you can select the perfect bearing to meet the demands of your specific application.
For more detailed information or to find high-quality pillow block bearings, check out the products and services offered by BYWB Bearing. We provide durable, reliable, and high-performance bearings that can withstand the toughest conditions.

Jimmy-Shen-Head
Jimmy Shen

Hi, I'm Jimmy Shen, funder of bywbbearing.com, I've been running a factory in China that makes bearings for 16 years now, and the purpose of this article is to share with you the knowledge related to beairngs from a Chinese supplier's perspective.

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2人评论了“The Ultimate Guide to Pillow Block Bearings: What They Are, Differences, and How to Choose the Right One”

  1. Good blog you’ve got here.. It’s hard to find good quality writing like yours nowadays.
    I seriously appreciate people like you! Take care!!

  2. Really thorough pillow block bearing guide — the side-by-side of pillow block vs. flange block finally made the mounting logic clear for me (horizontal flat-base on the conveyor frames vs. the 4-bolt flange for the vertical gearbox). The material breakdown was the most useful part; I ended up swapping a standard cast-iron UCP205 for a stainless steel unit on a washdown line and the corrosion difference is night and day. The UCP size chart with bolt sizes saved me a trip to the catalog. Great reference!

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