SKF SONL split plummer block housings

In SONL 217-517 and SONL 218-518, the letters name the series and the double number gives the two bearing sizes the same body accepts. SOFN 224 BF belongs to the earlier series, designated differently, and the final letters describe the assembly. A housing from one series is not replaced by one from the other without comparing the base dimensions.

When an extra block appears, as in SONL 218-518 K7, it is an execution of the same size and must be copied. The code identifies the housing; the bearing, the sleeve, the oil pick-up ring and the seals have their own references.

An oil-lubricated housing must be level, with the oil at the stated height. If the level is low, the ring does not lift; if it is high, the oil churns, heats up and leaves through the seals. The sight glass or level indicator is part of the assembly and is checked at every stoppage.

The seals are labyrinth seals, without contact, because the speed does not allow rubbing lips. That calls for careful mounting of the shaft and an environment without direct splashing. If the equipment runs very hot, it may also have oil cooling, which is worth mentioning in the enquiry.

Send us the complete designation of the housing and the quantity. Add the bearing designation, the shaft diameter, the rotational speed and the operating temperature. Tell us whether the support is locating or non-locating, whether the shaft passes through or ends inside and which oil is used. With the equipment stopped, a photo of the level sight glass and one of the base help confirm the series.