A Guide to Magnetic Drilling Machines
Whether you're in construction, engineering, steel erecting, metal fabrication, or maintenance, precision drilling is often a critical part of your work.
This is where mag drills, or magnetic drills, come into play. But what is a mag drill, and why is it such a game-changer for professionals working with metal?
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about mag drills, how they work, when to use them, and why brands like Rotabroach and Evolution are industry favorites.
Whether you're a seasoned tradesperson or just starting out, this guide will help you understand why a mag drill is a smart investment or hire for your next project.
What Is a Mag Drill?
A mag drill (short for magnetic drill) is a portable drilling machine equipped with an electromagnet. It is designed to attach securely to a ferrous (metal) surface, creating a solid and stable base for accurate drilling operations.
Unlike a traditional drill press, a mag drill can be taken directly to the workpiece, allowing for vertical, horizontal, and even overhead drilling in steel and other magnetic materials.
This makes it ideal for jobs on-site, especially in places where large materials cannot be moved easily.
How Does a Mag Drill Work?
A magnetic drill uses an electromagnetic base or a permanent magnet to clamp itself to the metal surface. Once activated, the magnet holds the drill in position, ensuring precision and safety, even when drilling in awkward or inverted positions.
Key Components:
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Electromagnetic base – The foundation that holds the drill firmly on the workpiece.
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Motor and gearbox – Powers the cutting process.
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Arbor or chuck – Holds the cutting tool, typically an annular cutter or twist drill.
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Feed handle – Manually controls the downward feed of the drill head.
Benefits of Using a Mag Drill:
✅ Portability – Take the drill directly to the job site.
✅ Accuracy – Delivers consistent and clean holes.
✅ Time-Saving – Faster than traditional handheld drilling.
✅ Safety – Reduces slippage, especially on vertical or overhead surfaces.
✅ Versatility – Can be used with various cutters for different metal thicknesses and hole diameters.
Common Uses for Magnetic Drills
Structural steel fabrication
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Bridge and railway construction
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Shipbuilding and offshore platforms
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Heavy equipment maintenance
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Installation of steel beams or columns
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Pipe and tank manufacturing
If your work involves drilling into metal at height or in hard-to-reach areas, a mag drill offers unmatched convenience and safety.
Types of Magnetic Drills
Corded Mag Drills
Traditional, powerful, and ideal for long-duration tasks.-
Cordless/Battery-Powered Mag Drills
Offers portability and convenience in remote areas with no power access. -
Permanent Magnet Drills
No electrical magnet, ideal for safety-critical environments or non-electrical job sites. -
Pneumatic Mag Drills
Used in highly flammable or explosive environments where electricity poses a risk.
Introducing Leading Mag Drill Brands
Rotabroach:
Rotabroach is a British manufacturer that specializes in magnetic drilling technology. Known for innovation and quality, Rotabroach mag drills are widely used in engineering, construction, and fabrication industries.
Popular models include:
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Rotabroach Element 30 & 50 – Compact, lightweight, and incredibly durable.
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Rotabroach Commando Series – Designed for demanding job sites.
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Rotabroach Eco-Series – Eco-friendly, energy-efficient mag drills.
Rotabroach also leads the market in annular cutters, a key accessory for mag drills.
Rotabroach is synonymous with power, reliability, and precision engineering, making it a trusted choice for professionals across the UK and beyond.
Evolution Power Tools
Evolution offers a range of affordable yet professional-grade magnetic drills. Known for their multi-material cutting technology, Evolution’s tools are popular with both tradespeople and serious DIYers.
Key Features of Evolution Mag Drills:
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Affordable pricing
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Solid magnetic adhesion
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High-speed motors
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Durable construction
Models like the Evolution EVO28 and EVO42 are especially popular for their compact size, making them great for site work where space is tight.
Evolution’s mag drills strike a great balance between price and performance, making them a solid choice for anyone starting out or looking for budget-friendly solutions.
Choosing the Right Mag Drill for Your Project
When selecting a magnetic drill, consider the following:
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Material thickness
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Hole size and depth
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Drilling position (vertical, horizontal, overhead)
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Portability requirements
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Power source availability
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Budget
If you're unsure which model suits your needs, speak to a tool hire specialist or supplier like Smiths Hire, Speedyhire, or a local distributor that stocks Rotabroach and Evolution tools.
Maintenance Tips for Mag Drills
To extend the life of your mag drill and ensure safe operation:
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Regularly clean the magnetic base.
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Check the power cord and connections for damage.
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Lubricate moving parts.
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Use proper cutting oil to reduce friction and wear.
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Inspect the arbor and ensure the cutter is correctly fitted.
Can You Hire a Mag Drill?
Yes! If you only need a magnetic drill for a short-term project or a one-off job, hiring is a cost-effective alternative to buying.
Many tool hire companies in the UK, including those in Leeds, Sheffield, Bradford, Leicester, Nottingham, Rotherham, Skegness, and Manchester offer daily, weekly, or monthly rentals of Rotabroach and Evolution mag drills.
Hiring also means:
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Access to the latest models
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Maintenance included
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No long-term storage issues
Final Thoughts: Is a Mag Drill Right for You?
If your work involves metal fabrication, structural steel, or site drilling, then a mag drill is not just a convenience—it’s a necessity. Whether you go for a top-end model from Rotabroach or an affordable, feature-rich drill from Evolution, you’ll benefit from accuracy, speed, and safety.
When used correctly, a magnetic drill can significantly increase productivity, reduce fatigue, and deliver consistently precise results in even the most challenging work environments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a mag drill upside down?
A: Yes, many mag drills are designed for overhead use. However, ensure your cutter and lubricant are suitable for that orientation.
Q: Do magnetic drills only work on steel?
A: They require a ferrous (magnetic) surface. They won’t adhere to aluminum or non-magnetic stainless steel.
Q: What cutters are best for mag drills?
A: Annular cutters are standard. Both Rotabroach and Evolution manufacture high-quality options.
This article aims to provide you with useful knowledge on the basics of what is a mag drill? along with touching on two of the leading brands; being Evolution Mag Drills and those manufactured by Rotabroach.
