A honed tube, also known as a precision honed tube, is a type of tubular product with several notable characteristics.
I. Manufacturing Process
Initial Forming
It typically starts as a seamless or welded tube blank. The seamless tube may be produced through processes like extrusion or piercing, while the welded tube is made by welding a strip of metal into a tubular shape.
Honing Operation
The key process is honing. Honing is a machining process that uses an abrasive tool, usually a honing stone or a set of honing stones, to finish the inner diameter of the tube. The honing tool rotates and reciprocates inside the tube, removing small amounts of material to achieve a precise and smooth surface finish. This process can correct any irregularities in the inner diameter that may have been present from the initial forming process.
II. Characteristics
Dimensional Precision
One of the main features of a honed tube is its high - precision inner diameter. The honing process can achieve very tight tolerances, typically within a few thousandths of an inch or even less in some cases. This makes honed tubes suitable for applications where a precise fit is crucial, such as in hydraulic cylinders.
Surface Finish
It has an excellent surface finish. The honing process leaves a smooth, almost mirror - like surface on the inner wall of the tube. A good surface finish reduces friction when fluids or other components interact with the inner surface of the tube. In hydraulic systems, for example, a smooth surface in the cylinder tube helps to minimize energy losses due to friction and also improves the sealing performance of the piston.