Bearing Blocks & Pillow Blocks
Precision machined plastic bearing blocks and self-lubricating pillow block bearings for industrial applications
- Direct bore machining eliminates expensive bearing inserts
- Self-lubricating materials require zero maintenance
- Significantly longer life in washdown environments
- Particles embed harmlessly instead of causing seizure
- Serving Chicago and nationwide since 1986
Overview
Custom plastic bearing blocks for maintenance-free operation. No grease fittings, no contamination, no seizures.
CDS Plastics manufactures precision plastic bearing blocks and UHMW pillow blocks that eliminate the contamination, maintenance, and corrosion challenges of traditional metal bearing assemblies. Through advanced CNC plastic machining, we produce self-lubricating bearing blocks that provide smooth shaft support without the need for expensive bearing inserts or constant lubrication. From standard plastic pillow block bearings to custom split bearing blocks, our solutions deliver quiet, reliable operation in environments where metal bearings fail prematurely.
Why Choose CDS Plastics Bearing Blocks
No Grease Fittings or Lubrication Ever Required
Our self-lubricating pillow block bearings eliminate all maintenance requirements, preventing grease contamination in food processing while saving thousands annually in labor and lubricant costs.
Corrosion-Proof Performance in Harsh Environments
Unlike metal bearing blocks that rust and fail, our plastic bearing blocks withstand daily washdowns, chemicals, and outdoor exposure, often lasting significantly longer in corrosive conditions.
Won't Seize from Contamination Like Ball Bearings
Dust and debris embed harmlessly into the plastic surface rather than causing catastrophic failure, ensuring continuous operation in dirty environments where metal bearings seize.
Custom Bore Machining Eliminates Bearing Inserts
We machine bores directly to your shaft size with ±0.002" to ±0.005" tolerance, eliminating expensive bearing inserts and potentially reducing total replacement costs significantly.
Solutions for Common Bearing Challenges
Grease Contamination in Food/Pharmaceutical
Frequent Bearing Seizure from Debris
Corrosion in Washdown Applications
High Bearing Replacement Costs
Dangerous Maintenance Access
Technical Specifications & Capabilities
Machining Capabilities
- Bore range: 0.25" to 6" diameter
- Bore tolerance: ±0.002" to ±0.005"
- Block dimensions: Up to 12" x 12" x 8"
- Mounting hole precision: ±0.005"
- Surface finish: 63Ra Standard. Better available.
- Split tolerance: ±0.002" on mating surfaces
Types of Bearing Blocks We Machine
- Pillow Blocks: Two-bolt base mount, most common style
- Flange Blocks: Three or four-bolt perpendicular mounting
- Take-Up Blocks: Slotted base for belt tensioning
- Plummer Blocks: Heavy-duty split housing design
- Hanger Blocks: Suspended mounting for overhead applications
- Custom Housings: Any configuration you need
Material Selection Guide
| Material | Load Capacity | Temperature Range | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| UHMW-PE | 500-750 lbs | -260°F to 180°F | Food processing, wet environments, general purpose |
| Cast Nylon | 1,500-2,000 lbs | -40°F to 250°F | Heavy machinery, high loads, industrial equipment |
| Acetal (Delrin®) | 1,200-1,500 lbs | -40°F to 180°F | Precision shafts, tight tolerances, chemicals |
| Oil-Filled Nylon | 1,500-1,800 lbs | -40°F to 250°F | High speed, continuous duty, no maintenance |
| PEEK | 2,000+ lbs | Up to 480°F | Extreme temperature, aggressive chemicals |
| PTFE Filled | 600-800 lbs | -100°F to 400°F | Lowest friction, chemical resistance |
| Glass-Filled Nylon | 2,000+ lbs | -40°F to 300°F | Maximum strength, dimensional stability |
| Detectable Plastics | Varies | Varies | Food safety programs (metal, X-ray, or ultra detectable) |
Information We Need From You
To machine your replacement bearing blocks, provide us with:
- Shaft details: Diameter, material, surface finish
- Load data: Radial loads, axial thrust, impact loads
- Speed: RPM and surface velocity
- Environment: Temperature, chemicals, moisture
- Mounting: Bolt pattern, base dimensions, orientation
- Current failures: What problems need solving
- Sample or drawing: For exact replacement
Industries and Applications
Food & Beverage Processing
- Conveyor support blocks in bottling lines
- Mixer shaft bearings without contamination risk
- Take-up blocks for packaging equipment
- Detectable options for critical zones
- Withstand caustic wash-down cycles
Material Handling Systems
- Conveyor roller support bearings
- Transfer shaft pillow blocks
- Sortation equipment bearings
- Accumulation zone supports
- Quieter operation compared to metal bearings
Chemical Processing
- Pump and agitator shaft support
- Corrosion resistant in acid/base exposure
- No spark generation in volatile areas
- PVDF and PTFE options available
- Withstand aggressive cleaning
Water & Wastewater Treatment
- Clarifier drive bearings
- Submerged shaft support blocks
- Screen and rake system bearings
- Chlorine and chemical resistant
- No maintenance in hazardous areas
Packaging Machinery
- Format change bearing assemblies
- Seal bar support blocks
- Film roll bearing blocks
- Quick-release split designs
- FDA-compliant materials
Agricultural Equipment
- Grain elevator bearings
- Fertilizer spreader components
- Outdoor equipment exposed to weather
- Impact resistant for heavy loads
- Self-cleaning in dusty conditions
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
- Tablet press support bearings
- Packaging line components
- USP Class VI materials available
- Eliminate lubrication contamination
- Cleanroom compatible options
Ordering Process
Information Required for Quoting
- Shaft diameter and running fit required
- Load ratings (radial and thrust)
- Operating speed and duty cycle
- Mounting configuration needed
- Environmental conditions
- Quantity and delivery timeline
Mounting Configurations
- Standard Base Mount: Two or four bolt patterns
- Flange Mount: Vertical surface mounting
- Take-Up Design: Adjustable slot mounting
- Split Housing: Two-piece clamping design
- Tapped Holes: Direct threading into plastic
- Through Bolts: For maximum strength
No Drawings? No Problem
Send us your worn bearing blocks for reverse engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can plastic bearing blocks handle loads without ball bearings?
The plastic material itself becomes the bearing surface, providing uniform support around the entire shaft circumference. Cast nylon handles 2,000 lbs radial load - sufficient for most applications. The key is selecting the right material for your load, speed, and environment.
Do plastic bearing blocks really need no lubrication?
Absolutely. Materials like UHMW and oil-filled nylon have inherent self-lubricating properties with coefficients of friction from 0.10-0.20. They never require grease or oil, eliminating contamination risks, maintenance costs, and the environmental hazards of lubricant disposal.
What about thermal expansion with plastic bearing blocks?
We account for thermal expansion when machining bore dimensions. For example, nylon expands approximately 0.001" per inch of diameter per 50°F temperature change. Our engineering team calculates proper clearances based on your operating temperature range to ensure optimal fit.
How do you prevent shaft wear with plastic bearings?
Plastic bearing blocks are softer than steel shafts, so the bearing wears rather than the expensive shaft. The smooth plastic surface actually polishes shafts over time. Many customers report better shaft condition after years of plastic bearing use compared to metal bearings.
Can plastic bearing blocks be used outdoors?
Yes, plastic bearing blocks excel outdoors where metal bearings fail from corrosion. UHMW and nylon resist UV, moisture, and temperature extremes. Unlike metal bearings that require protective seals and frequent regreasing, plastic blocks operate maintenance-free in outdoor conditions.
What's the cost comparison versus traditional bearings?
Initial cost is often comparable or lower when you factor in the bearing insert, housing, and installation. The real savings come from eliminated maintenance, longer life in harsh conditions, and no contamination issues. Total cost of ownership is typically significantly lower over time.
Contact our engineering team for application assistance and rapid quoting
