User Guide

12
Mag Drill - Surface Requirements
TIPS & TROUBLESHOOTING FOR USING
MAG DRILLS & ANNULAR CUTTERS
Mag Drill - Magnet Adhesion
Mag drills must magnetize to a solid surface. Magnetic strength is related to steel
thickness. Minimum thickness is 3/8”. If the material is thinner, the magnet will not hold
well. Clamp another piece of steel on top or below the thinner steel for stronger adhesion.
Material that is clean and free from coatings will offer the best surface for the magnet. For
non-ferrous materials use a Vac-pad™ (HMD904 & HMD905 only) or clamp a piece a steel
on top of it.
A clean smooth surface will allow the magnet to ‘stick’ better. Situations where the magnet
will have reduced holding power...
a) Material less than 3/8” thick
b) Coatings or paint layers on material
c) Chips, dirt, or grease between the magnet and the material
d) Curved surface (Surface should be flat. For pipe applications, a pipe adapter
should be used.)
e) Magnet only partially on work surface
How Do I Keep My Mag Drill from Slipping?
Make sure the drill’s magnetic base is clear of chips and debris and is securely attached to
a clean surface. Uneven surfaces or large debris buildup prevents the magnet from
obtaining optimal holding power, which can cause the drill to shift or lift during operation.
A safety chain or strap also helps to prevent injury if the drill shifts. If it does shift or lift
during the cut, it is very possible the cutter will break. Hougen mag drills have a built-in
safety circuit that stops the motor when the drill lifts from the material. Always use a safety
chain especially in horizontal & overhead positions.
VISIT WWW.HOUGEN.COM OR CALL
HOUGEN TECHNICAL SERVICE 800-426-7818
READ YOUR OPERATOR’S MANUAL
ALWAYS OBSERVE STANDARD AND
SPECIFIC SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
When in
Doubt
www.hougen.com