Pillow block bearings mount and supports a rotating shaft in a housing, typically made of cast iron or cast steel. The pillow block housing keeps the bearings in place for reliable and consistent performance. Flange bearings provide support for rotating shafts that run perpendicular to the bearing mount, and are available in 4-bolt or 2-bolt mountings.

Pillow blocks, the most commonly used type of mounted units, are designed to provide shaft support where the mounting surface is parallel to the shaft axis. The bolt holes are usually slotted for adjustment during mounting. Pillow blocks are supplied in a variety of configurations. Pressed steel pillow block bearings are also available for light-duty applications.