Machines
Magnetic drilling machines for metalworking
The RUKO range comprises of machines and suitable accessories for a variety of metalworking tasks. The right machine for your application depends on the type of machining task, the tool used and the requirements of the workpiece.
The focus is on magnetic drilling machines for metalworking, specifically for core drilling, twist drilling, countersinking and thread cutting.
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Magnetic drilling machine: Applications and selection
A magnetic drilling machine consists of a drilling drive unit and a magnetic base, which secures the machine to a suitable magnetic surface. This allows the machine to be positioned directly on the workpiece, for example when drilling into larger metal structures.
With the A10, RU25 and RU40 models, RUKO offers three magnetic drilling machines to meet a range of requirements. Depending on the model, they can be used for core drilling, twist drilling, countersinking and thread cutting. Factors to consider when making a selection include power, tool holder, drilling diameter and weight.
A comparison of RUKO magnetic drilling machines
| Characteristic | A10 | RU25 | RU40 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance | 1,100 W | 1,200 W | 1,800 W |
| Magnetic holding force | 10,000 N | 16,000 N | 20,000 N |
| Core drills | Ø 12.0 – 35.0 mm | Ø 12.0 – 50.0 mm | Ø 12.0 – 80.0 mm |
| Max. cutting depth | Up to 50.0 mm | Up to 55.0 mm | Up to 110.0 mm |
| Twist drills | Up to Ø 13.0 mm | Up to Ø 20.0 mm | Up to Ø 32.0 mm |
| Countersinks | – | Ø 10.0 – 40.0 mm | Ø 10.0 – 55.0 mm |
| Machine taps | – | M3 – M20 | M3 – M30 |
| Bit holders | Weldon shank 19.0 mm (3/4") | Morse taper MK 2 weldon shank (3/4") | Morse taper MK 3 weldon shank (3/4") |
| Transmission | 1 gear | 2 gears | 4 gears |
| Weight | 10.5 kg | 16.0 kg | 22.0 kg |
The technical differences illustrate the requirements for which the three models are designed:
- A10: This is the lightest of the three magnetic drilling machine, weighing 10.5 kg. It features a weldon chuck (non-interchangeable), an automatic coolant supply and a reduction in magnetic holding force to 50 per cent for readjustment while the motor is switched off.
- RU25: Extends the range of applications with a 2-speed gearbox, speed control and forward/reverse rotation. This enables, among other things, countersinking and thread-cutting work up to M20.
- RU40: With 1,800 W, a 4-speed gearbox, a holding force of 20,000 N and a cutting depth of up to 110.0 mm, this model covers the widest range of applications of the three models. A fine-adjustment mechanism, fitted as standard, makes positioning easier.
This allows you to select the right magnetic drilling machine for the specific task at hand – from compact core drilling to larger drill diameters, countersinking and threading.
To find out which shank fits which tool and how, for example, weldon and morse taper shanks differ, read our blog post What types of shanks are available for drills?.
Magnetic drilling machines in use
The RU25 in action: This application video shows the magnetic drilling machine being used for metalworking: RU25 application video
The RU40 in action: Watch the application video to see how the magnetic drilling machine is used for metalworking: RU40 application video
Understanding the holding force in magnetic drilling machine
The magnetic holding force is a key parameter of a magnetic drilling machine, but in practice it varies depending on the workpiece. The holding conditions of the magnetic base are influenced by the material, the thickness of the material and the nature of the contact surface.
A suitable, clean and level magnetic contact surface forms the basis for this. Therefore, the conditions of the workpiece and the specifications of the respective machine should be checked before machining.
When drilling materials that are less than 12.0 mm thick, a steel plate of the appropriate thickness should be placed underneath the workpiece to be machined, so that the electromagnet can exert its holding force more effectively.
The magnetic holding force can also be impaired by:
- uneven, painted, soiled or coated support surfaces
- alloyed materials
- a sudden or excessive drop in voltage in the mains supply
- an excessively high feed rate during the drilling process
Matching the magnetic drilling machine to the core drill
When core drilling, the machine, tool holder and core drill must be compatible. The key factors are the tool holder, the tool diameter and the required cutting depth.
You can find the basics of core drilling in the article What is a core drill?. You can find out how core drills are used in practice and what matters when it comes to cutting speed, feed rate and cooling, is demonstrated in the blog post How to use the core drill HSS PerforMAX perfectly: A guide to efficient drilling in metal. Additional guidelines on speed are provided in the RUKO speed table.
Accessories for magnetic drilling machines
There are suitable holders and adaptors for various tools. The RUKO range includes, among other things, holder mounts, quick-release holders, reducing sleeves, drill chucks, adaptors, etc.
You can find the full range under Accessories for magnetic drilling machines.
Frequently asked questions about magnetic drilling machines
A magnetic drilling machine is secured directly to a suitable magnetic surface by means of a magnetic base. This means it can be positioned on large workpieces or those that are difficult to move, without the workpiece having to be clamped into a stationary machine.
Depending on the model and tool holder, magnetic drilling machine can be used for core drilling, twist drilling, countersinking and thread cutting. The types of machining operations and tool diameters that are possible depend on the specific machine model.
No. A suitable magnetic contact surface is required for magnetic adhesion. In addition, material thickness and surface finish affect the adhesion conditions. For workpieces with a material thickness of less than 12.0 mm, an additional steel plate should be placed underneath to improve magnetic adhesion. Rust, coatings or uneven surfaces can impair contact between the magnetic base and the workpiece.