The HES Honing Machine is capable of machining nearly all advanced materials, including electroplated hard chrome and plasma-sprayed surfaces, and laser cladded layers offering users remarkable versatility for a wide array of large-scale materials and manufacturing environments. Its dynamic rack-and-pinion stroke system and optimized spindle drive ensure consistent and powerful performance across the entire diameter range.

The rack and pinion design of the HES machine is modular and can be extended onsite at a later stage if needed. With the ability to remove up to 1,400 cm³/h of stock, the HES dramatically reduces cycle time on large parts while delivering an impeccable surface finish suitable for the most demanding specifications in heavy-duty applications. For example, for customers applying a laser cladding layer, mechanical dechroming can be a significant benefit, but with the HES External Honing Machine—there is no need to chemically de-chrome the part as this will be done as part of the honing process. The stock removal rate for chrome reaches an impressive 500 cm³/hour (or 30.5 in³/hour), which is much faster than any other chrome removal processes, and provides a more positive environmental impact on this kind of hard-chrome removal.

The typical crosshatch pattern associated with honing is also applicable to the external honing process. Surface structures like plateau finishes and bearing surfaces offer a significant advantage in today’s industrial applications. For example, a honed piston rod has been shown to significantly extend the lifetime of seals.

Ease of use is at the forefront of the HES Honing Machine’s design. The intuitive touch control interface and self-guided setup process simplify operation, eliminating the need for programming skills and minimizing downtime and training requirements. Fast setup, with new configurations achievable in under two minutes, is complemented by step-by-step guidance and a system that recommends spindle speed and necessary cycle parameters, optimizing process results every time. With an unmatched cost advantage and return on investment compared to traditional grinding and belt grinding systems, the HES model reduces operational costs and boosts profitability for manufacturers working with large, high-value parts.

Even on long, smaller rods below 80 mm in diameter and lengths above 6 meters, external honing proves competitive—even compared with turning in soft steel. The flexibility of the hone head, which is completely cardanic with 25 mm float capacity on each side, combined with the automatic steady rest support, ensures that setup and honing of these parts is easy and does not require an experienced operator, unlike turning operations. With this floating capacity of the HES external honing machines there is no need to straighten the parts before honing unlike with turning.

Operators benefit from 100% process control with tool overload protection, automatic geometry correction, and continuous tool expansion control, ensuring optimal stock removal, extended tool life, and consistent performance. Optional automatic workpiece supports, a quick stone holder system, and a wide diameter range of 50–450 mm with a long stroke length up to 14,000 mm accommodate a broad variety of large part sizes, making the machine ideally suited for long shafts, hydraulic cylinders, turbine components, landing gear components, and other sizable industrial pieces. Automatic correction of roundness and parallelism ensures dimensional accuracy throughout lengthy parts, while sizelock and stone wear compensation maintain precision and reduce the need for manual adjustments. Dwell, oscillation, and spark out functions further enhance surface finish and process control on large-scale workpieces.

Maintenance is straightforward and downtime is minimized with the HES Honing Machine. The machine’s user-friendly Windows® embedded control system with a 15-inch screen delivers a modern, responsive interface, a high maximum workpiece weight capacity up to 12,000 kg, and an advanced coolant system with centrifugal filter, magnetic separator, and oil chiller, all contribute to process stability and extended tool and workpiece life. Comprehensive safety features, including CE certification and light curtains, provide operator safety and regulatory compliance, while optional software for taper bore applications expands the machine’s capability for specialized honing tasks on large parts.