Most honing processes create a helical crosshatch pattern in the bore. This texture forms a good bearing surface, because it allows axial lubrication transfer. The choice of abrasive grit size determines the surface finish obtained. Surface finish values can range from Ra values of 2 to 32 in. Plateau-type surface profiles can be created by properly combining rough and finish honing.
Valleys produced by rough honing remain after finish honing removes the peaks.
These valleys retain lubricant along the crosshatch pattern within the bore. Mandrel stone and guide shoes form the typical honing tool. Generally, the harder the material to be honed, the softer the honing stone chosen. Different honing techniques offer solutions to a range of production problems. The most common approach to honing uses abrasive honing stones.