Nagel Technologies GmbH has launched its EasyHone VRX honing platform, a machine developed to deliver flexibility, precision and cost-effective machining for small and medium production volumes.
Designed to meet the growing demand for agile manufacturing, the EasyHone VRX combines a versatile machine platform with the company's established honing expertise. At its core is a vibration-optimised structure and a large T-slot clamping table that can accommodate customer-specific fixturing solutions, from single-part fixtures through to multi-part batch arrangements.
The machine offers 1,200mm of X-axis travel, enabling it to handle a wide variety of component sizes and geometries while maintaining accurate and repeatable positioning. According to Nagel, the result is reduced setup times, increased manufacturing flexibility and stable machining performance.
The EasyHone VRX incorporates the company's proven honing technology, featuring high-precision axis guidance and an accurate feed system with integrated bore correction and automatic tool wear compensation. An optional in-process air gauging system provides closed-loop process control, helping manufacturers achieve tight tolerances, consistent surface finishes and reliable dimensional accuracy, even on demanding components.
To simplify operation, Nagel has developed a new Honing Assistant that supports software-based program creation. The guided workflow is designed to reduce setup effort and improve repeatability, particularly in environments where part changeovers are frequent.
“Manufacturers are increasingly challenged to produce a growing variety of parts economically,” explains Sören Pöhlsen, sales engineer industrial at Nagel Technologies. “With the EasyHone VRX, flexibility is not a compromise, it is an integral part of the machine concept. Especially in small- and medium-volume production, users benefit from short changeover times and consistently stable processes.”
The machine has also been developed with automation and digital manufacturing requirements in mind. Industry 4.0 connectivity and flexible interface options enable integration into existing production systems and automated manufacturing environments.
A notable feature is the integrated Beckhoff MX-System, which incorporates all electrical components directly into the machine, removing the need for a conventional external electrical cabinet. This approach reduces installation requirements, frees up valuable floor space and improves accessibility for maintenance and servicing.
“For manufacturers, overall performance is determined by the combination of precision, availability, ease of operation, and long-term investment security,” says Udo Strefler, sales manager at Nagel Technologies. “The EasyHone VRX provides a robust, maintenance-friendly, and expandable platform that integrates seamlessly into existing production lines while offering the flexibility to support future growth.”
The EasyHone VRX is suited to a broad range of applications, including engine blocks, cylinder liners, hydraulic components, bearings, gears and aerospace parts. Despite its compact footprint of 1,700 x 2,500 x 2,200mm, the machine offers honing diameters from 20 to 200mm, a stroke length of 800mm and a connected load of 18kW. With a machine weight of approximately 5,000kg, it is designed to deliver high machining performance while providing manufacturers with a scalable and flexible honing solution.