The process was originally developed to improve bore quality in cast iron workpieces.
Secondly, most workpieces that require this process are made on horizontal machining centers (HMC), which reduces float-ability due to gravity.
Thirdly, the lubrication may not be sufficient, which can lead to material build-up between diamonds, diminishing the tool's effectiveness.
The perishable tool cost can be as low as a 0.01 USD per bore for very large quantity runs.
The process can be performed on blind holes, but it requires an alternative tool design and suitable manufacturing conditions.
[1][2] Commonly processed materials include soft and hard steels, aluminum, bronze, brass, ceramics, and chrome.
However, if there are cross-holes, or other interruptions in the bore, then a ratio greater than 2:1 is possible, because swarf and fluids may be expelled via these routes.