Pillow Block Bearings
To help support light-to-heavy-duty loads and optimize precision, Thomson linear bearings are available factory installed in a variety of pillow block configurations to match your application’s requirements.
Which pillow block configuration is best for your application?
Pillow blocks for Thomson RoundRail linear bearings provide self alignment and greater tolerance of reduced parallelism compared to square rail guides. They’re also easier and less expensive to install without compromise to important performance requirements. Pillow block bearings can be installed with either continuous or end supports, they handle moment loads well, and offer low drag and excellent smoothness.
Below are the available Thomson pillow block configurations with properties based on our selection of RoundRail linear bearings. With some exceptions, most configurations can be combined. For example, a closed, twin, adjustable standard is available.
Open or Closed. Open pillow blocks are for use with continuous supported shafts, while closed pillow blocks are for use in end-supported applications.
Single or Twin. All pillow blocks come with the Linear Ball Bushing® Bearing installed. Single pillow blocks contain one linear bearing, while twin pillow blocks are longer and contain two linear bearings.
Adjustable or Non-Adjustable. Pillow block bearings are also available with adjustable housings or fixed, non-adjustable housings. Adjustable pillow blocks have an adjustment screw, or screws in the case of a twin pillow block, which allows for adjustment of the radial play, or lash, between the shaft and the linear bearing.
Standard, Flanged or Side Mount. Standard pillow blocks mount with the mounting surface parallel to the shaft. Flanged pillow blocks are also available for when the mounting surface is perpendicular to the shaft. Side mount pillow blocks are open pillow blocks with the mounting surface 90 degrees from the standard blocks.
Choosing a Thomson Pillow Block
Linear Bearings and Guides: Basics for Design Engineers
How to Use Adjustable Pillow Blocks to Optimize Precision
Linear Bearings and Guides: Design Applications
Choosing a Thomson Pillow Block
Linear Bearings and Guides: Basics for Design Engineers
How to Use Adjustable Pillow Blocks to Optimize Precision
Linear Bearings and Guides: Design Applications
Pillow Block Bearings Training
Pillow blocks are available in many different configurations.
- Open or closed
- Single or twin
- Adjustable or non-adjustable
- Standard or flanged
All pillow blocks come with a bushing installed. All pillow blocks are supplied with wipers unless specified otherwise.
