Bearing housings play a crucial role in mechanical systems, ensuring smooth and efficient operation. Choosing the right housing can make all the difference in performance and longevity. Here are five common types to consider:

• Pillow Block: Also known as pedestal housings, these are among the most widely used. They provide strong support for shafts where the mounting is parallel to the axis. Pillow blocks come in various configurations with adjustable bolt holes. Pressed steel versions are ideal for lighter applications.
• Flanges: These are the second most common type of housing. Available in round or square shapes, they are fastened using 2, 3, or 4 bolts. Flanges are often used in conveyor belt tensioning systems and rod-end units, which have an eye-shaped head for spherical plain bearings. They also come in hanger mountings like single, double, or triple boss designs.
• Special Housings: Some manufacturers create custom housings for specific industries. For example, water-cooled housings are designed for use in steel mills with continuous casters. You can request custom designs tailored to your project’s needs.
• Tapered Roller Bearing Housings: Used in material handlers, air-handling equipment, and shredders, these housings require careful selection based on load and mounting conditions. If the load is at an angle, the mounting bolts must be strong enough to prevent slippage.
• Cylindrical Roller Bearing Housings: Typically available in single-row designs with cages, these are ideal for heavy radial loads and high-speed applications. One-piece housings are recommended for cranes, motors, and conveyor rollers, while split housings suit heavy rail vehicles and dryers.
• Split Plummer Block Housing: Commonly used for self-aligning ball bearings and spherical roller bearings, these housings are available in multiple designs without the need for special orders. Made from grey cast iron or spheroidal graphite iron, they are used in mining, metallurgy, and paper industries.

Bearing housings are made from a variety of materials, including ductile iron, cast iron, pressed steel, and aluminum. Aluminum requires a tighter fit due to thermal expansion. Understanding the right housing for your application can enhance system performance and reduce maintenance costs.

For more information on oil application methods for roller bearings, check out Noria Corporation's article "How to Determine the Correct Oil Application Method".

If you need help selecting the right bearing housing or have any questions, feel free to reach out to one of our experts. We’re here to help you find the perfect solution for your project.