Universal boring and facing head

Types of Universal Boring and Facing Heads

The universal boring and facing head is divided into two functional types: boring and facing. The boring head performs internal machining operations such as drilling, reaming, or boring. The boring and facing head works on both internal and external surfaces. The universal boring and facing head attains exact circular cross-sectional shapes. The use of these universal boring and facing heads reduces the number of setups on the same workpiece, increasing production efficiency.

Some of the popular types of boring heads are described below.

• Opti-Mill Boring Head

  This is a mini boring head. Using a single clamping screw, it adjusts the radius. It offers a simple and fast method for setting diameter adjustment with clamping. The boring head has 8 positions for cutting tools.

• Shark Boring Head

  This is an adjustable boring that allows for easy setting and optical tool size. It uses a direct visual effect to determine the dimensions directly. It has 16 tool positions and comes with a digital display.

• Automatic Boring Head

  This boring head allows for a constant cut. It can be set to change the tool length. This type of boring head can make rough boring, finish boring, or backlash compensation boring.

• Multi-Function Boring Head

  It allows for boring, counterboring, chamfering, and facing in one setup. Some boring heads have a combination of boring and tapered holes. It can carry out boring, tapered boring, counter boring, and chamfering.

• Micro-Adjustable Boring Head

  This boring head has a side and face cutting tool. It allows for face, side, and internal boring cutting. The diameter adjustment system on the tool makes it possible to make precise adjustments.

• Precision Boring Head

  This boring head uses a digital display to show its use. It is an ideal tool for internal diameter adjustment.

Some of the materials used for boring and facing tools include:

• Hardened Steel

  This boring head is made of high-strength stainless steel. It is sufficiently durable. This steel is corrosion-resistant, rust-resistant, and wear-resistant to stand up to thermal cycling and chemical environments.

• Plastic

  Some parts of the boring head are made of plastic. It makes the device lightweight and easy to handle. In particular, it is easy to use in lighter machining tasks and involves low machining accuracy requirements.

Specification & maintenance

• Size:

  Generally, boring heads are available in a variety of sizes. The size is usually based on the diameter of the boring head as well as its length. The overall size looks more like a compact tool that could fit in the machining center.

• Shank:

  A shank is a universal boring head attachment part that connects the boring head to the machine tool or adapter. The boring head shank is usually made of the same material as the entire head. Depending on the machining task, the shank could come in different sizes and configurations to ensure a stable and accurate connection between the boring head and the machine tool.

• Driving Mechanism:

  The driving mechanism of a universal boring head usually includes a motor, transmission system, power supply, etc. Boring heads need to be driven by machine tools or external motors to complete boring tasks. The specific driving mechanism is chosen according to the use requirement. It is compatible with various machine tools and motor-shaft couplings to ensure a stable and efficient boring operation.

Maintenance

Maintenance of a universal boring head is crucial to ensure its continued performance and accuracy. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Clean:

  Regularly clean the boring tool head to remove dust, chips, and other debris. Use air or a brush to blow out the interior of the boring head, and wipe the exterior with a clean cloth. Ensure the boring head is free from dirt and processed residue to avoid affecting its precision and performance during the following use.

• Lubrication:

  Apply an appropriate lubricant to the moving parts, bearing, and slide of the boring head. This can reduce friction and abrasion, allowing the parts to move smoothly. However, make sure not to over-lubricate, as excess lubricant can attract dust and debris.

• Inspection:

  Regularly inspect the boring tool head to check for signs of damage, such as deformation, wear, or play. Pay particular attention to the cutting tool's condition, ensuring it remains sharp and undamaged. If any problem arises, fix or replace it promptly to avoid affecting precision and quality during use.

• Environmental control:

  Control the use and storage environment of the universal boring head. Avoid using it in high-temperature, high-humidity, or dusty environments. When storing, ensure the storage location is dry and clean, and use a protective cover to prevent dust and debris from getting into the boring head.

Applications of Universal Boring and Facing Heads

Boring and facing heads are suited for several industrial applications. Here's a list of some industries that heavily use boring and facing head attachment:

• Pipelines: Boring heads are mainly used in the pipeline industry. They create precise openings in existing pipelines to allow for the insertion of valves, tees, and other fittings. Using boring heads reduces the need for costly pipeline replacements and minimizes downtime.
• Construction: Universal boring heads are valuable tools in the construction industry. They allow for precise cuttings in various materials, including concrete, wood, and metal. Boring heads make it easy to create openings for electrical conduits, plumbing pipes, and HVAC ductwork.
• Mines: Boring heads are popular tools in the mining industry. They create precise holes for blasting, ore extraction, and ventilation. Micro-boring heads are commonly used in horizontal directional drilling (HDD) to create pathways for utility lines and control holes.
• Automobile: Facing and boring heads are used to machine engine blocks, cylinder heads, and other components. They create precise holes for fuel passages, water jackets, and bolt holes. Universal boring heads also improve the fit and alignment of mating components.
• Aerospace: Universal boring heads create precise holes in aircraft components made of aluminum, titanium, and other materials. They are used to make openings for weight reduction and to improve fit and alignment of mating components.
• Marine: The marine industry uses boring heads to make precise holes in boat and ship components. They create openings for pipes, bulkheads, and assemblies. Boring heads reduce the need for hand drilling and increase production speed.

How to choose universal boring and facing heads

When it comes to selecting a universal boring and facing head for a specific project, there are several factors to keep in mind. First, a person's requirement will depend on the size and weight capacity of the boring head. Ensure the machine being used in the project is compatible with the boring head being purchased. Check the radius or diameter of the head to confirm whether it can handle the workpiece diameter.

The tool's adjustable and fixed boring bars are important when it comes to determining whether the tool will be versatile enough. Select a tool with multiple speed settings and feed rates to have precise control over the machining process. Also, consider whether the boring head has manual or automatic indexing. An automatic indexing capability will offer better efficiency and precision.

For long-term use, one may want to choose a boring head that is easy to maintain and durable. A durable boring head will have a damage-resistant material and perform reliably over time. Depending on the job at hand, select the universal boring head with cutting tool compatibility, such as carbide inserts or HSS.

It may be best to go for boring heads with cutting tools that can be easily swapped out and customized based on the materials being machined. If unsure of how to use the boring head facing tool or how to install it, one can go for tools with detailed user manuals. In this age of machine automation, it would also be helpful to choose a boring head that has software compatibility. Such a capability can provide easier programming and set up with remote control and data analysis.

Universal boring and facing head Q&A

Q1: What is the difference between boring and facing?

A1: Boring and facing are distinct machining processes. The process of enlarging an existing hole to achieve greater accuracy and a specific diameter is known as boring. On the other hand, facing is a process that entails cutting across the end of an object to create a flat surface. A universal boring and facing head can perform both of these functions.

Q2: Can a universal boring head do all the boring tasks?

A2: While the universal boring head is designed to perform a wide variety of boring tasks, it cannot do all the boring tasks. Some specialized boring operations require specific machines, such as the vertical boring mill.

Q3: What are the advantages of a boring head?

A3: In addition to being able to perform a wide variety of boring and facing tasks, a universal boring and facing head is also easier to set up than many other boring heads. This machine offers great precision and reduces the need for multiple setups, saving time in machining operations.