Reaming vs Boring: the differences and their respective advantages

Reaming and boring are two very similar mechanical machining processes. In fact, both are used to improve the precision and internal finishing of holes or pipes, but have specific characteristics and applications. In this article, we will explore the differences between reaming and boring, highlighting the respective advantages offered by each process.

What is reaming

Reaming is a mechanical machining process that is used to finish the inner surface of a pre-existing hole, in order to achieve precise dimensions, tight tolerances and a better surface finish. During reaming, a rotating tool called a reamer is used to remove excess materials from the hole, bringing it to the desired size. This process allows to obtain high quality, concentric and cylindrical holes.

What is boring

Boring is a mechanical machining process that involves finishing the inner surface of a hole or pipe. However, unlike reaming, boring is mainly used to remove imperfections or roughness from the hole, rather than changing its size. During boring, a rotating tool called a auger is used to smooth and make the inner surface of the hole uniform.

Differences between reaming and boring

• Main purpose 

Reaming is used to change the size of a hole, ensuring precision and tight tolerances, while boring aims to improve the surface finish of the hole and remove imperfections.

• Removal of material

Reaming removes excess materials from the hole to achieve the desired dimensions, while boring smooths the inner surface without removing significant materials.

• Accuracy

The reaming offers greater precision in the size and concentricity of the hole, thanks to the use of reamers with precise geometry. Boring, while providing a better surface finish, does not guarantee the same dimensional accuracy as reaming.

• Applications

Reaming is often used to create precision holes in mechanical components, such as engine cylinders, bearings or shafts. Boring is used in applications where the surface finish of the hole is critical, for example in the automotive or aeronautical industry.

The advantages of reaming over boring

• Dimensional accuracy

Reaming offers the possibility of obtaining holes with precise tolerances, ensuring an adequate correspondence with other mechanical parts and ensuring trouble-free assembly.

• A high-quality surface finish

Reaming allows to obtain a smooth and uniform surface finish inside the hole, reducing friction and wear of the parts in contact.

• Increased strength and durability

Reaming removes any irregularities or roughness within the hole, improving the strength and durability of the component.

• Dimensional flexibility

Reaming allows to obtain holes with customized dimensions, both in terms of diameter and depth, to adapt to the specific needs of the application.

Advantages of boring:

• Improved surface finish

Boring allows to obtain an extremely smooth and uniform surface finish, reducing friction and improving the performance of the component.

• Removal of imperfections

Boring is effective in removing small imperfections, splinters or roughness that could compromise the correct operation of the component.

• Fast finishing process

Boring is often a faster process than reaming, allowing for faster and more efficient hole machining.

• Less material removal

Because boring focuses on smoothing and finishing, it involves less material removal than reaming, preserving the structure and integrity of the component.

Conclusions

Both reaming and boring are important processes in mechanical machining to improve the precision, surface finish and performance of components. While reaming is focused on the precise dimensions of the holes, offering greater precision and flexibility, boring focuses on sanding and removing imperfections to achieve a high-quality surface finish. The choice between reaming and boring will depend on the specific needs of the application and the precision and finishing requirements required. In some cases, you may need to use both processes to get the desired result.