Even the most accurately manufactured cylinders can contain very subtle deformations that make them slightly imperfect. These imperfections are often invisible to the naked eye, but they can interfere with the correct operation of mechanical equipment such as a car engine. This is why a vertical or horizontal honing machine is used to apply the final touches to a cylinder during the production process. It ensures maximum dimensional accuracy — and therefore optimum efficiency during operation.
Cylinder honing machines are most commonly used to finish linear motors in combustion engines or hydraulics. To increase the accuracy and efficiency of the process, a growing number of large-scale manufacturers are turning to laser technology. This relatively new process ensures no waste material is removed from the main component. Instead, it is ‘burned’ into microscopic recesses in the wall of the cylinder. When used in an engine honing machine, this technology can increase the life expectancy of a combustion engine by up to 75%.
As more and more larger companies switch to laser technology, the availability of used honing machines increases — keeping the price of purchase down for smaller businesses. While the purchase of vertical honing machine equipped with precision lasers is expensive, it can improve productivity and slash costs over time. By purchasing a quality used honing machine from a reputable supplier, you can slash the operational costs of your business.