Aug. 11, 2021
A magnetic drill, or magnetic drill for short, is a type of drill used to cut metal. A magnetic drill consists of 4 key components: a magnetic base, a drill holder, a motor, and a mandrel or chuck. You can use a variety of tools with magnetic drills, including annular cutters, twist drills, taps, reamers and countersinks.
As with benchtop or vertical drill machines, you need to use magnetic drill machines in hard-to-reach locations, such as I-beams, truck beds, stationary vertical metal parts, etc. The magnetic base adheres to the metal surface and stabilizes the drill bit to cut the material.
In most cases, you will use a annular cutter when drilling in steel. A magnetic drilling machine is an end mill with a hollow center that cuts holes in the metal. For the ring tool to work best, the steel usually needs to be at least 1/4 inch thick so that the magnetic drill press will stick to the surface - 1/2 inch steel is better.
Annular Cutter
By using a magnetic drill machine, you'll get the precision and speed you need to drill in hard materials when you need to drill with precision and consistency. Magnetic drills have a strong electromagnetic base that allows them to adhere to the surface of carbon steel (ferrous metals) when they are turned on.
The magnetic drill machine can be positioned to drill horizontally, vertically or overhead, which is especially useful in construction. Make sure to secure your magnetic drill to the surface being drilled, especially if it is above your head, to avoid dropping or falling on your head from high places.
"Magnetic drills were originally designed for construction companies to drill a large number of holes in structural steel that was already in place, such as I-beams. They offer greater stability and are easier to use than hand-held drills, and also offer better accuracy and faster cutting of large diameter holes.
A second benefit of magnetic drills is that they can drill and tap (thread) holes up to 1-5/8 inches (40 mm). For example, a common application is drilling a 9/16-inch (14 mm) diameter hole and tapping a 5/8-inch (16 mm) thread without moving the machine."
Magnetic Drill Machine
Electromagnetic drilling machines are best suited for most jobsite situations where electricity is available and the work environment is relatively dry.
Pneumatic magnetic drilling machines, which have access to compressors and where the job site may be wet or in a hazardous environment. Hydraulic magnetic drilling machines are mainly used for industrial, construction and offshore drilling applications.
The material base to be used must be ferrous in order for the solenoid to work.
The steel must be flat and fairly clean, otherwise the magnet will not hold on to the surface.
Make sure the bottom of the drill bit is also free of debris.
Use a safety chain to hold the drill press in place, as the tool will loosen the steel and fall over the head in the event of a power failure.
Let us help you find the best annular cutters for your needs. Contact us today or visit our website to learn more about annular cutters and magnetic drill machine.
