Boring is an extremely important but often lesser-known machining technique than others. It is essential for many industrial applications and plays a central role in precision mechanics, enabling the production of components with a very high finish.
This process involves the use of a tool, called a Bareno, designed to remove material from a workpiece. It acts directly on the diameter of the hole, acting both in terms of roughness and tolerance.
In this article, we will examine Boring in more detail: what it is, what it is used for and how it differs from Reaming, a rather similar procedure but with its own characteristics.
What is Boring and what is it for?
Like all finishing operations, boring requires great attention to detail and micrometric precision. The workpiece is usually pre-drilled, i.e. fitted with a hole that acts as a guide for the boring tool.
The tool consists of a metal bar on which a blade with one or more cutting edges is mounted, depending on the volume of chips to be removed. During rotation and feed, it removes excess material, increasing the diameter of the opening.
The accuracy of the hole produced depends on various factors, including the precision of the Bareno, the type of material to be processed and the correct setting of process variables, such as rotation speed and machine power.
It is important to continuously monitor these elements to ensure a well-done job that meets precise quality standards. This is why it is essential to only turn to professionals in the sector, with long and proven experience behind them.
From Manual Boring to CNC Boring
Manual Boring has always been the standard technique in the industry. This procedure, although effective, requires considerable craftsmanship and time commitment.
Nevertheless, it still retains its value in areas where customisation and attention to detail are essential. With the advent of CNC (Computer Numerical Control) technology, however, it has undergone a significant evolution.
CNC Boring is an automated operation that uses a numerically controlled machine to perform machining with micrometric precision. The machines, governed by advanced algorithms, can act with a level of precision and consistency that was unthinkable just a few decades ago.
Technological progress has brought significant benefits in terms of efficiency, productivity and quality. It must be emphasised, however, that the effectiveness of CNC boring is largely dependent on proper programming.
Technicians must have a sound knowledge of the software and the properties of the materials they are working with to achieve the best results. In addition, regular maintenance is essential to ensure optimal operation and long life of the equipment.
Boring or Reaming: What is the Difference?
As you can read in our Glossary, 'Boring' and 'Reaming' are terms used in Precision Mechanics to refer to two distinct material machining processes.
As we have seen: Boring acts by chip removal and is used to enlarge a hole previously drilled in a workpiece, using the Boring Tool. This is a highly finishing operation, performed to meet precise tolerance and roughness criteria.
Reaming is also used to finish the internal surface of the hole, but with a different focus: the aim is to achieve a precise size or surface finish, acting on diameter and axis respectively. It can be done manually, with a tool called a reamer, or by means of a special machine, the boring machine.
In practice, the main difference between the two processes concerns the tools used and the purpose of the machining. While the former is mainly used to enlarge the hole, the latter is more commonly used to finish its inner surface. However, the choice as to which is most suitable varies from case to case and depends on the specifications of the workpiece.
The Bonanomi Works
Bonanomi is a precision mechanical workshop offering high quality contract machining: Milling, Grinding, Mechanical Engraving, Drilling and Reaming. Founded in 1946, it has a state-of-the-art machine park and a highly qualified team that guarantees maximum precision and attention to the product.
We offer a strategic partnership based on trust, collaboration and customer satisfaction. If you are interested, contact us to find out all the details about our machining operations.