Together, rigid honing and plateau honing provide a highly functional surface ideal for demanding applications where performance, longevity, and efficiency are critical. Rigid hones are effective for changing bore geometry while FLEX-HONE® tools accomplish an ideal crosshatch finish quickly and easily.
Overview
Rigid honing is a precision type of finishing process that uses a rigidly supported abrasive tool used to remove material from the surface of a bore or cylinder. It is typically used when high accuracy in bore geometry, size control, and surface finish is required such as in engine blocks, hydraulic cylinders, and aerospace components. The process yields a crosshatched surface pattern, improved roundness and straightness, with tight tolerances. Rigid honing, however, can still result in residual surface peaks which can increase friction, wear or break-in time.
Plateau honing is an important subsequent operation that removes these surface peaks without changing the underlying bore geometry. By removing the peaks while retaining the valleys, plateau honing produces a flatter, more uniform surface that improves oil retention, reduces wear, and promotes longer component life. It enhances performance by reducing initial friction, shortening break-in periods, and helping to prevent scuffing or scoring.
AN INEXPENSIVE YET EFFECTIVE AND EASY-TO-USE TOOL TO ACCOMPLISH A PLATEAU FINISH
FLEX-HONE® Key Benefits for Plateau Honing:
- Removes Surface Peaks Without Altering Geometry: The FLEX-HONE® tool uses a flexible, self-centering abrasive action that selectively removes microscopic peaks while preserving bore size, roundness, and crosshatch pattern.
- Creates a Consistent Plateaued Finish: Produces a uniform, polished surface ideal for improved lubrication retention, reduced friction, and extended component life.
- Ideal for Hard-to-Reach Areas: Its ball-style design conforms to bore irregularities and reaches into blind holes and cross ports, where rigid tools may struggle.
- Reduces Break-In Time: The plateaued surface created by the FLEX-HONE® minimizes metal-to-metal contact during initial operation, helping engines and hydraulic systems reach optimal performance faster.
- Extends Seal and Component Life: By producing a smooth surface with retained valleys for oil retention, the tool helps prevent scoring, scuffing, and premature wear.
- Easy to Use and Cost-Effective: Operates with standard hand drills or production equipment, requiring minimal setup, operator skill, or maintenance.
- Compatible with a Range of Materials: Available in a variety of abrasive types and grits to match material hardness, from soft metals to hardened steels.