Choosing the Right Hygienic Bearing House: 5 Types Explained

Type 2: XB3FC – Best for High-Vibration and Vertical Load Applications

The 3-Bolt Housing for Added Stability 

When you step into environments with higher vibration or heavier loads, the XB3FC is often a better fit. With three mounting holes instead of two, this bearing housing distributes force more evenly and resists shifting during operation. It’s especially useful in areas where machines start and stop frequently or experience changes in torque.

The third bolt also helps prevent rotation of the housing under dynamic load, which is a common problem in equipment like fillers, rotary machinery, and indexing systems. In some cases, the XB3FC has replaced older 2-bolt solutions that experienced repeat failures due to loosening over time.

This housing is available in the same shaft size range as the 2-bolt version, but we recommend it particularly for applications with vertical or angled loading. It installs just as easily and follows the same hygienic design principles, making it a drop-in upgrade when stability is a concern.

Type 4: XBPBC – Best for Vertical Panels and Space-Constrained Layouts

The Perpendicular Flange Housing (Pillow Block) 

Not all equipment has room for bearings mounted parallel to the shaft. In some cases, you need a bearing that installs perpendicularly, especially when space is limited or the machine layout is vertical.

That’s where the XBPBC comes in. It’s our hygienic take on the classic square flange bearing and is ideal for mounting on vertical panels or the sides of machinery.

These flange houses don’t require frame extensions for mounting. They can be fixed directly onto the face of a machine, which simplifies layout and saves space. We often see this type used in space-restricted conveyor setups, vertical augers, or small-footprint machinery in packaging lines.

This variant is just as hygienic as the rest, with the same seal and housing materials, and is available in anti-static models for dry food or powder handling.

Still unsure which bearing housing fits your setup?

Contact our experts or explore our product configurator

Each of NGI’s five bearing housing types serves a distinct purpose.

Whether you need a compact 2-bolt for general conveyors or a robust 4-bolt for high-torque machinery, understanding these differences allows you to design smarter, cleaner, and more durable equipment.

Our houses are certified for EHEDG, USDA, and 3-A standards, made from fully hygienic materials, and designed with real use cases in mind.

If you need help determining which variant fits your needs, or want to review mounting data or compatibility options, we’re here to support your process.

Need help choosing the right bearing housing?
Please reach out directly; We’d be happy to discuss your requirements and help find the best match for your application.

– Austin Davis, Category Manager, NGI