The housing of a friction bearing is commonly referred to as what?

The housing of a friction bearing is commonly referred to as a pillow block. A pillow block is a mounted bearing that serves as a support for a rotating shaft. It provides stability and alignment to the shaft, allowing it to rotate with minimal friction. The design of a pillow block typically includes a base or foundation that can be bolted to a surface, along with a concave or rounded inner section that accommodates the bearing, ensuring that it remains securely in place during operation.

This term is widely used in machinery and mechanical systems, highlighting its importance in supporting rotating components. Other terms like base, cover, or container may describe different parts of mechanical assemblies but do not specifically refer to the bearing housing itself in the context of friction bearings. Therefore, pillow block is the most accurate and commonly accepted terminology for this component.