How does a CNC honing machine work?

CNC honing machine is a machine tool for precision machining of internal holes. The design of the machine with a maximum diameter of 200 mm and a maximum depth of 600 mm makes it particularly suitable for handling precision honing tasks on small and medium-sized workpieces. The working principle is based on an extension of the grinding principle, whereby material removal and surface finishing are accomplished by means of a relative motion between the honing head and the workpiece bore wall.

During the process, the honing head is fitted with an abrasive strip or oil stone and pressure is applied to the workpiece bore wall by means of a hydraulic system or a mechanical device to form a face contact. The workpiece is held in place while the honing head rotates and reciprocates, which allows the sanding bar or stone to produce micro-cuts on the surface of the workpiece, removing microscopic surface imperfections and burrs while improving the bore geometry and surface roughness.

The processed workpieces usually include engine cylinder block holes, hydraulic cylinder barrels, valve bores, etc., especially those precision parts that require extremely high dimensional accuracy and surface quality. CNC honing machine is widely used in automotive, aerospace, mold manufacturing and other industries due to its high precision, high efficiency and good surface finish, especially in the field of engine manufacturing, where it is crucial for improving cylinder sealing and wear resistance.

In the market, CNC honing machines are widely welcomed for their ability to automate and digitize control, as well as provide consistent machining quality and efficiency. With the development of Industry 4.0, intelligent honing machines integrated with sensors, data acquisition and analysis functions have become the new darling of the market, which are able to monitor the machining process in real time, optimize the process parameters, and reduce manual intervention, thus reducing production costs and improving product quality.