Honing

The choice depends on the workpiece’s weight and length. Vertical honing is ideal for shorter, heavier components like engine cylinder liners because gravity helps maintain the alignment of the tool. Horizontal honing is the preferred method for long-format industrial parts. At Accurate Edge, we operate two vertical and two horizontal machines, including a high-capacity horizontal system capable of honing bores up to 500mm in diameter and 10 meters in length. This versatility allows us to correct geometric errors like taper, barrel-shape, and ovality in everything from small hydraulic sleeves to massive oilfield stabilizers.

Unlike grinding, which creates a smooth but “dry” surface, honing produces a specific cross-hatch pattern consisting of microscopic peaks and valleys. These valleys act as reservoirs for lubricating oil, ensuring a consistent oil film is maintained even under high-pressure strokes. This pattern is vital for the proper seating of piston rings and seals, preventing “blow-by” and reducing friction-related wear. Accurate Edge precisely controls the cross-hatch angle and surface roughness (Ra) to meet the exact specifications of OEM manufacturers in the aerospace and marine sectors.

Yes, honing is the most effective process for correcting internal geometric irregularities. While deep hole drilling or boring creates the initial hole, the honing process “trues up” the bore. Because the honing tool is designed to “float” within the hole, it follows the centerline of the existing bore while removing high spots. This allows us to achieve extreme roundness and straightness tolerances – often within 0.001mm – which are impossible to reach through traditional boring alone. This is particularly critical for parts that have undergone heat treatment and may have experienced slight dimensional distortion.