Plummer blocks and pillow blocks, also referred to as "housed bearing units," are self-contained bearing devices designed to safely mount a bearing that lets its outer ring not move but allows the inner ring to rotate. These greased units readily install to equipment and comprise mounting bearing housing bolted by holes in the base. The bearing housing comes as either two-piece (split) or single-piece housing (solid type) designed to remove dust and contaminants with enhanced performance. These blocks are available with different bearing types, such as roller, ball, and tapered. The shaft is inserted into the block's fixed base, triggering the inner part's rotation.
Key Benefits and Features of Plummer Blocks and Pillow Blocks
These blocks offer various benefits and are equipped with splendid features, such as:
- They come in varied sizes and dimensions.
- Made from durable materials that last long.
- They are highly reliable and easy to install.
- Ideal for various load applications with consistent machine operations.
- Available in multiple bearing types with added strength.
- Feature anti-corrosive properties.
- They require less maintenance, have a simple design, and are easy to operate.
Materials for Plummer Blocks & Pillow Blocks
Due to their nature of applications, Plummer and pillow blocks' bearings and housings are manufactured from high-quality materials, including:
- Cast Iron
- Cast Steel
- Steel
- Pressed Steel
- Elastomers
- Plastic
- Graphite Metal
- Stainless steel
- Sintered Metals
- Polymers
- Aluminium
- Nylon.
Plummer Blocks and Pillow Blocks Lubrication:
The units house bearings that require proper lubrication to minimise wear and friction. Lubrication options involve self-lubricating and manual lubrication, where commercially available lubricants come as oils, greases, and solid films.
- Self-lubricating bearings – These bearings do not need any external lubrication because they are made from an oil-impregnated metal alloy, bronze, or graphite.
- Manual Lubrication requires lubrication for the bearings' friction points using a pump or housing-mounted fittings.
The Difference Between Pillow Blocks and Plummer Blocks
Though they are similar in design with similar bearing types, they differ concerning their applications. Pillow blocks are distinguished from Plummer blocks due to their lightweight applications, while plummer blocks are ideal for high-power transmission with heavy industrial load applications.
Typical Uses of Pillow Blocks and Plummer Blocks
These units support a vast array of couplings and shafts in mechanical power transmission systems with robust durability and applications, such as:
- Construction Machinery
- Special Machinery Systems (Like Car Wash Systems and Gym Equipment)
- Mining Industries
- Packaging Equipment
- Agricultural and Textile Equipment
- Conveyor Systems
- Heat Treatment Equipment
- Air Handling.
