The Top 3 Line Boring Machines [Top Rankings and Reviews]

Line boring machines enlarges a preexisting hole to make its centerline collinear with other bores. Collinear bores occur in a variety of machinery, from engine blocks to turbines.

A line boring machine can enlarge a previously cast hole with high precision. Precision is critical when it comes to line boring. If the bores’ centerlines are not collinear, the machine in need of repair could cease to run. The problem could be as simple as fixing a rattle, or it could be as severe as a complete shutdown.

In this article, we will discuss the complete buying guide to line boring machines, along with answering some of the most frequently common asked questions. In addition, we will also examine the top 3 line boring machines, and their complimenting accessory kits.

When using a rotating bit, the line boring machine can cut through nearly any kind of material used in machining. Of course, line boring requires a large amount of power. Line boring machines come in pneumatic or hydraulic varieties.

What is a Line Boring Machine?

First, what do we mean by line boring? Line boring is a process of expanding holes from existing holes. It is a typical way of creating colinear holes that are either identical or creates space for a bolt to pass through without sticking in the middle.

The machine capable of performing that is called a line boring machine. Accuracy is the key reason why it is commonly used in the industrialized sector.

As part of the application can be seen in engines or electricity turbines, line boring needs to be accurate and precise to avoid machine failures. Any slight difference in shape can cause misalignment or a machine to break down. Its accuracy makes it essential in repairing worn bores and carrying out repairs in engine blocks.

How to Use Line Boring Machine?

Learning how to use a line boring machine can vary depending on the nature of work you want the machine to perform. Also, manufacturers of this type of machine are different, so each manufacturer has different ways of operating their machines. One thing is sure. It always comes with a manual to guide you in the first installation and use.

If you need to learn more about how a line boring machine is used, you can view this YouTube video below.  The video shows how the mirage boring machine is used.

Application of a Boring Machine

Line boring machines come in various types and designs, which gives a perfect fit to areas where they can be applied. Most Boring machines can bore and as well drill into objects.

The commonly known line boring machine can bore holes in heavy construction materials such as tractor evacuation bucket, gearbox, or in turbine casings for the power sector.

Another specialized type of boring machine is the tunneling boring machine. This type of machine is capable of boring holes in anything from hard rocks to an underground tunnel to produce smooth tunnels.

This is what engineers mostly use in digging underground tunnels. A horizontal boring machine is specific for flat boring. They are of different types, but the table form is the most common and universal. The cylinder boring machine is used for boring existing holes in automobiles.

We also have portable boring machines, vertical boring machines, coupling boring machines, and Jig boring machines. The Jig boring machines are designed to expand existing bores to make their diameter wider for higher and precision and accuracy.

All these various types of boring machines have different ways they are applied in the industries for solving problems—an efficient way of reducing human effort and increasing accuracy in machine production.

Buying Guide

Regardless of your industry, if your company operates large machinery, you know that those machines must in operational order. No matter how diligently machines are maintained, wear and tear will cause the bores to wear out over the years.

If you have a big company, you may have in-house engineers to maintain the equipment or outsource this type of maintenance to specialized machining service companies. Regardless, there are five things you should keep in mind on your search for the right line boring machine.

The Type of Project

Line boring machines shine within shipbuilding, power generation, refurbishment of vehicles, and engines. Of course, the size of the tool matters.

Suppose you are working exclusively on the engines of vintage cars. In that case, you will not find a use for a machine that is for creating collinear bores in wind turbines.

The Size of Project

The type of project brings us directly into size. Again, if you are primarily refurbishing construction vehicles, your line boring machine will be smaller. A line boring machine with a diameter of 24″ is large enough to get the job done.

Alternatively, when you start getting into shipbuilding or power generation, a small machine will not cut it. At this scale, a boring machine needs to have a larger diameter boring bar, which gives greater rigidity over longer distances. A set up with a larger diameter boring bar and boring arm attachments is capable of boring diameters of up to 4 meters.

Ease Of Use

Depending on what you are trying to accomplish, several features could make setting up a boring machine more natural to use. The first of which is setting up the cones, which help the user to align the machine into the bore. There are also self-aligning spherical bearings and hollow boring bars that allow for laser alignment.

Type of Drive

Hydraulic and pneumatic drives operate similarly in that they both use fluid to transfer mechanical energy. A pneumatic drive uses easily compressible gas, like air, as an energy transferring medium. In contrast, a hydraulic drive uses less compressible liquids to transfer energy.

Hydraulic drives are capable of moving heavier loads and provide greater force, so they thrive most in larger, more significant projects. However, hydraulic oil leaks are possible, which could be damaging to the environment. The upfront costs of a hydraulic drive are also higher.

Pneumatic drives are used for medium-sized projects and are cheaper to buy but more expensive to run. When it comes to energy, pneumatics are more costly to operate because of the energy lost during the air compression process. However, pneumatic machines are easier to maintain and more environmentally friendly.

Manufacturer Support

A line boring machine is an investment. You want to ensure that you can call the manufacturer at any time with questions about your machine. The manufacturer can be helpful in troubleshooting or ordering a new part.

It is also worth taking a look at the warranty that is provided with your line boring machine. Different manufactures offer different warranty packages depending on the quality and reputation of their equipment.

Comparing the Top 3 Products

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Setup a Line Boring Machine 

Setting up a machine differs by manufacturers and what you intend to do with the machine. Here is a step by step guide on setting up your machine.

Step 1

Couple the bearing plates to the machine. This can be done in several ways. In any method you choose, make sure the bearing plates are accurately fixed and attached to the center of the bores within the workpiece.

Step 2

Fix the split nut hub to the boring bar

Step 3

Install the bar drive motor and put the drive key on the engine in the keyway slot that is located at the boring bar

Step 4

Fix the bearing endplate in the assembly

Step 5

Join the feed gearbox and make sure the hex drive is aligned with the lead screw hex

Step 6

Screw the bearing to the boring bar

Step 7

Align the boring bar, either using a test indicator or a laser kit. Make sure the boring is aligned.

Step 8

Make an exquisite adjustment by adjusting the bearing housing towards the end support plate and make sure they are nothing obstructing the workpiece

Step 9

Install the hydraulic hoses to the drive and the feed motor. Power on the hydraulic feed to the drive and check if it is rotating in the right direction.

You can also visit the mirage machines site to get insight on how to assemble your machine

How Does a Line Boring Machine Work?

They are numerous ways in which a line boring machine works. A boring machine can measure bores from 50mm -2000mm using a calibrated internal and external micrometer.

It works by enlarging an existing hole from an object to make it colinear with one or more mores. This makes it more accurate in performance. It can be used in making bores in car engines or tractor bucket.

Giving it an excellent bore makes smooth operation of the machine, with this machine, precision, and accuracy count.

Line Boring Machine Accessories

Your going to need some accessories to go with your machine.  Here are the some of the best selling and most useful.

How Much Does A Line Boring Machine Cost?

It is no secret that line boring machines are expensive. There is a wide price range depending on size and functionality. The machines on our list cost between $1,500-$2,800.

There are cheaper alternatives just as there are more expensive ones. Finding the most reputable and warrantied would be your safest choice.

Are There Portable Line Boring Machines?

Portable line boring machines do exist, and they offer several advantages over other boring machines. Because they are portable, you can bring it into the field with you, preventing you from disassembling the machine that needs repair.

This method saves money and time during transportation and removes the risk of damage. The portable line boring machine also cuts down on downtime, helping you meet your deadlines.

There is also the advantage of versatility. Many portable line boring machines serve several purposes, from excelling at repairing the pivot bores of an excavator bucket to re-boring drive shaft housings.

This versatility makes a portable machine a worthwhile investment.

Furthermore, portable line boring machines are often smaller and fit in spaces that might be impossible with a larger machine. With that said, mobile line boring machines are not as inherently stable as their counterparts permanently set up in shops. You must make sure that the bases have set and alignment is proper.

What Type of Maintenance Does My Line Boring Machine Need?

A quality line boring machine should need minimal maintenance to keep it operational. For the most part, keeping the machine oiled, cleaned, and debris-free is necessary vital to sustaining a long life. Frequent minimal care is often more effective than minimal extensive upkeep.

Disadvantages to Buying The Cheapest Line Boring Machine

Price is a serious factor when it comes to making a big purchase. The last thing you want is a poorly performing machine. Cheap machines are often unstable, causing the line boring machine to vibrate or shift while in use.

Results from a volatile line machines could include a distressed finish or severe misalignment of bores. More importantly, safety hazards become a significant threat.

When buying cheap, you also run the risk of limited mounting options, limiting the types of jobs that the line boring machine is capable of. Overall this diminishes the value of your investment. If the machine is difficult to mount, then it would probably be challenging to use.

Why You Need A Line Boring Machine

You need a line boring machine if you own heavy machinery and find yourself outsourcing your repair work more than twice a year. Being able to fix any of your heavy-duty equipment will keep your projects on time and budget.

A machine only malfunctions at the most inopportune time, and you do not want to have to rely on someone else to promptly make the repairs.

You also might need a line boring machine if you frequently rent boring machines for various contracted jobs. People in the business of refurbishing engines might find a small line boring machine essential in realigning bores.

Wrapping it all up

A line boring machine is costly, but it could save your business a lot of money in the long run. With several different kinds of line boring machines to choose from, you must invest in a line boring machine that suits your specific industry and work line. Portable machines are versatile and can save time. In contrast, fixed-line machines can make bigger bores and serve as a more robust investment for quality work.

After analyzing what line boring machines are, the complete buying guide to line machines, along some of the top machines available today, it is clear that when it comes to purchasing one, size and ease of use are essential factors.

Most of all, if you own a company that operates heavy equipment like excavators; it is worth having an in-house boring machine instead of outsourcing projects or repairs.