Magnetic Drills: How They Work and How to Choose One
Magnetic base drilling machines explained: how the electromagnetic base works, twist drill vs. annular cutter, and which model fits your steel work.
How a Magnetic Drill Works
A magnetic drill (magnetic base drill) is a portable drilling machine whose base contains a powerful electromagnet. When switched on, the magnet locks the machine onto a steel plate or beam with a holding force measured in Newtons — typically 8,500 to 10,000 N on WIST models. The operator can then drill accurate holes without clamps or a drill press, even on vertical surfaces and overhead work.
Because the workpiece must be ferromagnetic steel for the magnet to hold, magnetic drills are used almost exclusively for steel structure fabrication, shipbuilding, bridge construction, heavy equipment repair and mold maintenance.
Twist Drills vs. Annular Cutters
Two tool systems are available. Twist drills are the familiar spiral drills, ideal for small holes (typically up to 13-16 mm) and available on every machine. Annular cutters (also called coring drills) cut a ring and leave a solid core, which removes much less material — this makes large holes (up to 35 mm or more) fast and economical. The W35C-1 accepts both: twist drills up to 13 mm and annular cutters from 12 to 35 mm.
Key Specifications to Compare
1. Magnetic holding force
More Newtons of holding force mean more stable drilling and safer operation on thick plate. Compare at the same working conditions: WIST magnetic drills deliver 8,500-10,000 N.
2. Motor power and speed
Higher power (910 W to 1,200 W) cuts faster and handles larger diameters. Variable speed is valuable when drilling different materials — the W16S offers 100-750 r/min speed regulation, and forward/reverse is useful for tapping.
3. Guide plate travel
This is the drilling depth range of the quill. 140-205 mm covers most plate and beam drilling work.
4. Weight and portability
For site work, every kilogram matters. WIST magnetic drills weigh 9.5-12.8 kg with carrying case, pilot pin and spare cutters included.
Voltage and Frequency
Confirm the power supply at your site. WIST machines support 220V/110V at 50/60 Hz, with the voltage selected at order. Spare parts (brushes, switches, magnets) are available from stock for fast servicing.
Tell us the hole sizes, plate thickness and working conditions at your site, and we will recommend the right magnetic drill and tooling package.
Not sure which machine fits your job?
Send us your workpiece details and target budget — our export team will reply within 24 hours.
