An SKF pillow block bearing (also called a plummer...

An SKF pillow block bearing (also called a plummer block) is a bearing housing that includes a mounted bearing and is designed to provide support for a rotating shaft with the help of compatible bearings and accessories. SKF is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of bearing technology, and their pillow block units are known for reliability, easy installation, and durability in harsh environments. 🧱 What Is a Pillow Block? A pillow block is a type of mounted bearing that consists of: A housing (cast iron, pressed steel, or thermoplastic) An insert bearing (usually a ball or roller bearing) Optional seals, grease fittings, and locking mechanisms It supports shafts in low to medium load applications and allows for self-alignment to accommodate shaft misalignment. 🏷️ SKF Pillow Block Nomenclature Example Let’s break down a common SKF pillow block part: SY 50 TF Part Meaning SY Housing type (Pillow block, cast iron) 50 Shaft diameter (in mm, here 50 mm) TF Bearing insert type with seals and locking 🔩 Main Types of SKF Pillow Blocks 1. Ball Bearing Units Insert bearings (Y-bearings) in cast iron or composite housings Typically designated as SY, FY, UCP, UCFL Self-aligning Used in general machinery, fans, conveyors 2. Spherical Roller Bearing Units For heavier-duty applications Better for shock loads and vibration Includes types like SE, SNL, SONL 3. Split Plummer Blocks (e.g., SNL Series) Two-piece housing for easier mounting/dismounting Ideal for larger shafts and heavy loads Often paired with spherical roller bearings Used in paper mills, mining, and heavy industry ⚙️ Key Features Feature Description Self-Alignment Accommodates shaft misalignment Sealing Options Contact seals, labyrinth seals, taconite seals for dust and water protection Lubrication Grease-lubricated with re-lubrication options Mounting Styles Bolt-on, flange, take-up, and cartridge styles Housing Materials Cast iron, pressed steel, stainless steel, thermoplastic Locking Methods Set screws, eccentric locking collars, adapter sleeves 📐 Common Designations SKF Code Description SY Pillow block with Y-bearing (cast) FY Flange unit UCP Pillow block with set screw locking UCFL 2-bolt flange unit SNL Split plummer block housing 🛠️ Applications Agricultural equipment Conveyor systems HVAC Food and beverage machinery Mining and aggregate equipment Packaging machines Pumps and fans 🧰 Advantages of SKF Pillow Blocks Easy installation and maintenance Interchangeable inserts Wide operating temperature range High-quality sealing systems Reduced downtime in industrial setups 📄 SKF Support & Resources Detailed product catalogs and CAD drawings Installation videos and technical bulletins Bearing selection tools on SKF’s official site