Bearing Units

Bearing units are mechanical components that facilitate and transmit energy required for motion within machinery and industrial equipment. They help to support the shaft that rotates inside the machinery, minimising friction and enabling efficient power transmission between moving parts. The versatility of bearing units makes them critical for the smooth operation of conveyors, pumps, electric motors, and machinery.

Bearing units come in various forms designed for specific applications, mounting, and load requirements. Specialised bearing units include pillow block bearings for shafts, which feature a sturdy housing. Another common type is the flanged bearing, which is designed for secure mounting to a machine frame.

Types of Bearing Units

Here are some of the different types of bearing units with specific advantages in terms of mounting, load handling and environmental resilience.

Flange Units

A flange bearing distinctively incorporates a lip or flange on the outer ring, designed to precisely mount and position the bearing in sensitive or delicate applications. This unique feature ensures the bearing is securely locked in place, preventing axial movement and effectively withstanding axial thrusting, which is crucial for maintaining alignment and performance under load.

Flanged Bearing Units

Flanged bearing units are characterised by their integrated mounting flange, which can feature two, three, or four bolt holes for secure attachment to a machine frame. A flange mounted bearing is highly effective in applications subject to high vibrations, elevated temperatures, and significant axial loads, making them a robust choice for demanding industrial and automotive applications where stable shaft support is critical.

Take-Up Units

Take-up units are specialised bearing units comprising an insert bearing within a robust housing, specifically designed for applications where shaft or belt adjustment and tensioning are essential. Their primary function is to maintain adequate belt tension, thereby preventing slippage and ensuring consistent power transmission, particularly in conveyor systems and similar linear motion setups.

Pillow Block Units

Pillow block units, also known as plummer blocks, are among the most common and versatile bearing units for shaft support. They consist of a housing bearing (often a robust cast iron or pressed steel bearing holder) that encloses an insert bearing, providing solid support for rotating shafts when mounted on a surface parallel to the shaft axis. These units are widely used across various industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, and construction, due to their ease of installation and ability to accommodate misalignment.

Features to Consider When Buying a Bearing Unit

Consider these features when you are choosing which bearing unit to buy:

• Durability: Choose appropriate materials for your bearing units based on your expected loads, speeds, and operational stress. For example, steel flanged bearings are well-regarded for their durability under high speeds and loads.
• Versatility: Look for bearing units that offer adaptability across various applications, such as those with interchangeable components or multiple mounting options.
• Ease of Installation: Opt for bearing units with straightforward mounting, such as flange mounted bearing assemblies or pre-assembled housing bearing units that come ready to mount.
• Corrosion Resistance: In environments prone to moisture, washdowns, or harsh chemicals, prioritise bearing units manufactured from materials like stainless steel, or those featuring specialised coatings or seals to ensure long-term functionality.

Applications of Bearing Units

Bearing units are indispensable components across a vast array of industries, enabling efficient motion and power transmission in critical machinery and equipment.

Automotive Industry

In the automotive industry, durable flange bearings or compact housing bearing assemblies ensure smooth, reliable performance under demanding conditions like high speeds and varying loads. They are used in wheel hubs, transmissions or engine components.

Food Processing Machinery

For food processing machinery, specialised bearing units with corrosion resistance or sealed designs are used to withstand frequent washdowns and maintain hygiene standards while supporting shafts in mixers, conveyors, and packaging equipment.

Conveyor Systems

Conveyor systems rely on bearing units for moving goods. Take-up units while pillow block units or flange mounted bearing assemblies support rollers and drives handling continuous operation and varied loads.

HVAC Systems

In HVAC systems, bearing units are critical for the smooth and quiet operation of fans, blowers, and pumps. Compact flange bearings or vibration-dampening bearing holders are used in many HVAC systems to ensure energy efficiency and reliable air circulation.

Textile Equipment

Textile equipment, such as looms, spinning machines, and finishing lines, utilise flanged roller bearings or steel flange bearings to manage high-speed and precise movements with heavy radial and axial loads for consistent product quality.

Get the Best Bearing Units for Your Machinery

For high-performance mechanical solutions, turn to RS NZ, your trusted supplier and distributor of premium bearing units across New Zealand. Our selection includes durable steel flange bearing options, complete housing bearing assemblies, and much more from leading brands like SKF, INA and SNR.

Aside from bearing units, we also stock a comprehensive range of ball bearings and other industrial components, including gaskets, seals and packings to support your complete project needs.

Ordering & Delivery Information for NZ

RS NZ ensures reliable and speedy delivery across New Zealand. For complete information on shipping options, delivery times, and associated costs, please visit our delivery page.