pillow block

American  

noun

Machinery.

1. a cast-iron or steel block for supporting a journal or bearing.

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pillow block British  

noun

1. Also called: plummer block.  machinery a block that supports a journal bearing

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Etymology

Origin of pillow block

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

If the pillow block is planed on its bottom face and has its brasses fitted, the latter may be marked off for boring from the line a, Fig.

From Modern Machine-Shop Practice, Volumes I and II by Rose, Joshua

The eccentric for feathering the floats is fixed to the ship’s side, and sometimes carries a plummer block or pillow block for the paddle shaft bearing.

From Modern Machine-Shop Practice, Volumes I and II by Rose, Joshua

A special feature of this machine is the spreading of the lower frame so that its base rests upon an independent portion of the foundation from the main pillow block or crank shaft.

From Scientific American Supplement, No. 401, September 8, 1883 by Various

The main pillow block has a base 6½ feet long by 21 inches bearing, weighing 2,800 pounds.

From Scientific American Supplement, No. 401, September 8, 1883 by Various

These base plates are usually employed when the pillow block is to be held against a wall.

From Modern Machine-Shop Practice, Volumes I and II by Rose, Joshua