The SVL-2115 automated lapping machine from Sunnen, which has a UK subsidiary in Hemel Hempstead (www.sunnen.com), brings increased productivity and part consistency to what is traditionally a manual process.

Based on the proven SV-2115 honing system, the SVL-2115 can undertake the single set-up processing of hydraulic valves, sleeves, fuel system components and other parts that are prone to distortion when honed.

The patented system control is designed for unattended operation and automatically laps and air-gauges bores throughout the cycle. Gauge readings are fed back to the control, and the cycle is repeated until the parts are within specification.

Sunnen product manager Phil Hanna said: “Automated lapping is more consistent than manual lapping, and there are fewer workers today with the skills necessary for precision manual lapping.

“Since lapping is usually the last process during the machining of a workpiece, if the lapping is not correct, all the work to get the part produced up to that point is wasted.”

The patented Sunnen lapping tools are available for workpiece diameters from 6.3 to 45mm and lengths up to 12-times the bore diameter (to a maximum of 200mm). Additional diameter ranges are being developed.

The spindle speed range is 100-2,000rev/min during lapping, but the machine is capable of slower speeds for non-powered steps, such as lapping-paste application or slow-rotation bore entry.

Stroking speed is 0-350SPM, with the stroke length optimised to achieve a high degree of cylindricity. Easy tooling and probe change-overs accommodate runs of many different parts during the course of a shift, while a ‘stack light’ allows operators to monitor cycle completions or faults from a distance.