Hydraulic Cylinder Honing: What You Need to Know

Much like grinding, honing is the process utilized to give a hydraulic cylinder it's the precise surface texture finish required for its optimal application. Typically, hydraulic cylinder honing is a critical part of cylinder repairs; however, a consumer may opt to purchase a ready-made honed hydraulic cylinder from a hydraulic shop.

Why go for hydraulic cylinder honing?

For a hydraulic cylinder, a proper honing ensures an effective seal with an extended seal life as well as its smooth operation.

a)    The main reason that contributes to the need for hydraulic cylinder repairs is the emergence of a leak. Leaks facilitate the entrance of contaminants into the hydraulic system. The contaminants are responsible for creating weak spots, scratches and other abnormalities along the cylinder tube's wall.

As a result of the irregularities, the seal wear gets substantially increased, and it could eventually lead to internal leakages which will significantly minimize the performance level of the hydraulic cylinder.

b)    Hydraulic cylinder honing is an effective method of deglazing before the installation of new seals. Deglazing increases the roughness of a hydraulic tube. The rigidness that is useful in the restoration of the original crosshatch finish which reduces wear and improves the lubrication of the cylinder thus facilitating a smoother functionality. 

c)    Honing is also considered an effective inspection tactic. After a light honing, severe conditions can get indicated on the hydraulic honed barrel if surface imperfections get revealed.

When should a hydraulic cylinder honing be scheduled?

Whenever a hydraulic cylinder gets removed from the system, it should get a light honing performed on it as part of the overall maintenance or repair service.

If you consider the costs involved in frequent cylinder rebuilds, reduced seal durability and the time consumed by constant re-seals, conducting a honing on the cylinder before honing will save you money and time in future. A good hydraulic cylinder honing renews the bore finish in addition to providing an actual bore that is essential for reducing downtime, as well as achieving peak performance and maximum seal life. 

During cylinder repair, some people often opt to skip the honing service as they consider it an additional cost. However, if you check the repair quotation, hydraulic cylinder honing is usually the cheapest item on the repairs services list.

What if the barrel damage is too severe for a light honing?

If a light honing is not sufficient for the severity of injury incurred by the cylinder, you can go for a heavy honing service as a solution for both surfaces as well as geometrical issues.