A bearing block is a mechanical component that is used to support a rotating shaft or axle. It is commonly used in various machines and equipment, such as engines, pumps, and conveyors, to reduce friction, absorb shock, and prevent misalignment. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of bearing block, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
A bearing block is a type of bearing housing that supports a rotating shaft or axle. It is typically made of metal or plastic and contains a bearing insert, which is a rolling element or a sliding surface that reduces friction and wear. The bearing insert can be a ball bearing, roller bearing, plain bearing, or a combination of these. The bearing block is mounted on a stationary structure, such as a frame or a housing, and the shaft or axle rotates inside it.
Origin
The origin of bearing block can be traced back to the ancient civilizations, where simple bearings were used for various applications, such as transportation, irrigation, and milling. The first recorded use of bearings was in the Egyptian pyramids, where wooden rollers were used to move heavy stones. In the Middle Ages, the development of water and wind mills led to the use of more advanced bearings, such as wooden or metal bearings with lubrication. The industrial revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries further advanced the technology of bearings, with the invention of ball bearings, roller bearings, and other types of bearings.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, bearing block is defined as “a block or housing that supports a bearing”. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a block or housing in which a bearing is mounted”. The Collins English Dictionary defines it as “a housing that contains a bearing, used to support a rotating shaft”. The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “a block or housing that supports a rotating shaft or axle”.
Associations
Bearing block is associated with various industries and applications, such as automotive, aerospace, marine, mining, construction, and manufacturing. It is also associated with different types of bearings, such as ball bearings, roller bearings, plain bearings, and thrust bearings. Bearing block is often used in conjunction with other components, such as seals, lubricants, and shafts.
Synonyms
The synonyms of bearing block include bearing housing, pillow block, plummer block, flange block, cartridge block, and take-up block. These terms refer to similar mechanical components that support bearings and rotating shafts.
Antonyms
The antonyms of bearing block include bearing-free, non-bearing, unsupported, and unmounted. These terms refer to situations where a bearing block is not used or needed, such as in a fixed or non-rotating structure.
The same root words
The same root words as bearing block include bearing, which means “a support or guide for a rotating shaft or axle”, and block, which means “a solid piece of material used as a support or obstruction”. These words reflect the function and form of bearing block as a solid support for a rotating shaft or axle.
Example Sentences
- The bearing block on the conveyor belt was worn out and needed replacement.
- The plumber block was used to support the propeller shaft on the boat.
- The take-up block allowed for easy adjustment of the tension on the belt.
- The cartridge block was used to mount the bearing for the motor shaft.
- The flange block was bolted to the frame to support the drive shaft.