New SH-5000 horizontal honing machine is automation-ready for high-volume processing of smaller parts

Sunnen's new SH-5000 horizontal honing machine introduces a low-cost, automation-ready option for high-volume processing of smaller parts, such as gears, turbocharger bushings, valve components and pistol barrels. It handles parts with bore diameters from 1.5 to 101.6 mm (0.060" – 4.0"), and is capable of processing a wide variety of part sizes, configurations, and materials. The machine's 225-mm (9-inch) touchscreen control features infinite part program storage and intuitive setup and run screens to allow inexperienced operators to run the machine as efficiently as a veteran. "Saved" setups in the control ensure fast changeover and high productivity.

The SH-5000 is factory-equipped with cycle-time control to prevent glazing of the abrasives, automatic size control to minimize cycle time, and fixture airline control for automating fixtures. Its horizontal layout facilitates part loading and use of inexpensive gimbal-type fixtures, making the machine highly cost-effective for processing large lots of smaller parts. A clear adjustable guard/light curtain allows fast operator-friendly setups. Side access to the workzone enhances operator ergonomics during setup and facilitates integration with part-handling automation. High cutting pressure capability and two-step honing deliver fast stock removal coupled with a precise finish step, all in one operation. In addition, generous free space is provided in the electrical enclosure for integrating automation components. The machine's true-running ABEC seven-bearing spindle with direct collet connection allows quick changeover of high-production MMT tooling, while an easy-setup, runout-adjustable spindle adapter enables use of standard Sunnen tooling.

The SH-5000 has a 4.1-kW (5 hp) spindle drive and 1.1-kW (1.5 hp) stroker drive, with carriage travel up to 392 mm (15.43 in). Spindle speed is infinitely adjustable from 200 to 3,000 rpm, with stroke rates of 10 to 550 SPM.

The machine utilizes a Siemens touchscreen PLC and digital-servo drives with a patent pending servo-hybrid tool feed system for exceptional repeatability. Digital-servo tool feed and cutting pressure control produce consistent, predictable performance throughout the pressure range. Cutting pressure can be adjusted in 4.5 N (1 lbf) increments to a maximum of 2,224 N (500 lbf). The digital system provides superior feed control at low pressures for improved honing results with small-diameter parts. The control's new digital honing indicator is user-configurable. Other standard control features include zero shutoff, stone wear compensation, feed speed regulation (stone saver), two-step feed, spindle reverse, speed changes while in cycle, inch/metric selectable units, system diagnostics, cycle dwell, in-process short stroking and 13 operator languages.

The machine's servo ballscrew stroker delivers extreme precision and repeatability for honing in blind bores, while a longer stroke length of 392 mm (15.43") allows the SH-5000 to take on deeper bores. For fastest setup, the machine's stroking system can be positioned with a joystick on the operator station.

The SH-5000 easily adapts to floor space limitations with an electrical cabinet that can be specified on the rear or either side of the machine. The machine complies with U.S. and European safety requirements.