Honing: What It Is, How It Works, and Key Applications in Precision Machining

Honing, alongside grinding and lapping, is one of the primary finishing processes used in most machine shops. Of the three, honing is often the most capable yet underutilized operation, offering precision and versatility in a variety of applications.

What is Honing?

Honing removes material from a workpiece through abrasion, utilizing tools embedded with abrasives like aluminum oxide, CBN, and diamond. These abrasives are typically formed into solid shapes, commonly referred to as “stones.” Unlike grinding, which operates at cutting speeds starting around 5,000 sfm (1,524 m/min), honing is performed at much lower speeds, starting at about 65 sfm (19.8 m/min).

Advantages of Honing Over Other Processes

• Material Removal Rates: Honing matches or exceeds the material removal rates of grinding for fine finishes.
• Precision: Honing is ideal for accurately removing small amounts of material with tolerances as tight as 0.0002" (0.051 mm).
• Heat Management: Lower cutting speeds generate less heat, preventing damage to delicate parts like gear teeth.
• Portability: Honing tools can be used outside the shop with simple electric drill motors.

Engine reconditioned with a Sunnen CV-616 automatic cylinder hone. Image courtesy of Galloway Engine Reconditioning.

Applications of Honing

1. Cylinders and Hydraulic Components

Honing is synonymous with finishing cylindrical components, such as engine and hydraulic cylinders. This process imparts a crosshatched surface pattern, which effectively holds lubricant while preventing leaks under high pressure. For example, honing enables precision in hydraulic pumps operating at pressures up to 5,000 psi (345 bar).

2. Correcting Geometry Issues

Honing tools use long stones with significant engagement in the bore, allowing them to self-center and correct out-of-roundness or misaligned holes. This capability is particularly useful for deep bores with high length-to-diameter ratios, which can be challenging to machine with other processes.

Gear honing with a Gleason-Hurth 150SPH-L Spheric gear honing machine. Image courtesy of Gleason Corp.

3. Gear Teeth Finishing

Honing is increasingly used in automotive gear manufacturing to produce quieter, longer-lasting gears. Unlike grinding, honing eliminates heat-related issues, such as heat-affected zones, while improving the surface finish and geometry of gear teeth. This is especially critical in hybrid and electric vehicles, where gear noise is more noticeable.

Cost Effectiveness of Honing

Honing can be a cost-effective process, particularly for smaller or manual operations. Used machines suitable for aerospace or industrial components can be purchased for under $2,500. Abrasive stones, mandrels, and other tools are widely available, keeping operational costs manageable. For larger-scale operations requiring automation, the costs may rise but remain competitive compared to other machining methods.

Conclusion

Honing stands out as a versatile, precise, and cost-effective finishing process. Whether you're finishing cylinders, correcting bore geometry, or perfecting gear teeth, honing offers unique advantages that make it indispensable in modern manufacturing. Its combination of low heat generation, high precision, and portability ensures it remains a valuable tool for both industrial and field applications.