Mag Drill Bits & Accessories

About Mag Drill Bits & Accessories

Mag drill bits and accessories are essential components for magnetic drilling operations, designed to work with magnetic base drills for precise, efficient hole-cutting in steel and metal fabrication. These specialised cutting tools include TCT (Tungsten Carbide Tipped) broach cutters, annular cutters, and various accessories such as pilot pins, arbors, and cutting lubricants. Unlike conventional twist drills, mag drill bits remove only the outer edge of the hole, creating a clean slug and significantly reducing cutting time and power consumption.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of magnetic drill bits and accessories to suit different cutting depths, diameters, and material specifications. From standard HSS annular cutters for general steel work to premium carbide-tipped cutters for hardened materials and stainless steel, our selection covers the needs of steel fabricators, structural engineers, and maintenance professionals working across construction, industrial, and manufacturing sectors.

Applications

Mag drill bits and accessories are widely used across various trades and industries:

• Steel Fabrication: Structural steelwork, framework assembly, and metal construction projects
• Construction & Civil Engineering: On-site drilling for steel beams, girders, and support structures
• Shipbuilding & Marine: Hull fabrication and deck plate drilling
• Rail & Infrastructure: Track installation and maintenance, bridge construction
• Manufacturing & Industrial Maintenance: Machine assembly, equipment modification, and repair work
• Oil & Gas: Pipeline installation and structural work on rigs and platforms
• Automotive & Heavy Vehicle: Chassis modification and custom fabrication

Choosing The Right Mag Drill Bits & Accessories

When selecting mag drill bits and accessories from MyToolShed.co.uk, consider these key factors:

• Cutter Diameter & Depth: Match the annular cutter size to your required hole diameter (typically 12mm to 100mm+) and ensure the cutting depth suits your material thickness, with standard depths of 25mm, 35mm, 50mm, or 75mm
• Material Composition: HSS cutters work well for mild steel and general purpose use, whilst TCT (carbide-tipped) cutters are essential for harder materials, stainless steel, and extended production runs
• Shank Type: Verify compatibility with your magnetic drill – common formats include Weldon shank (19mm) and Universal shank systems
• Pilot Pin Selection: Ensure you have the correct pilot pin length and thread type for your cutter depth and magnetic drill model
• Cutting Fluid: Invest in appropriate lubricants to extend cutter life, improve finish quality, and reduce heat build-up during operation
• Power Requirements: Consider whether your 240v or battery-powered magnetic drill has sufficient power for larger diameter cutters

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between annular cutters and twist drills?

Annular cutters remove only the material around the hole's edge, leaving a solid slug, whilst twist drills remove all material. This makes annular cutters faster, more efficient, and suitable for larger diameter holes in thick steel – typically 35-80% faster than conventional drilling methods.

How often should I replace mag drill bits?

Cutter life depends on material hardness, cutting conditions, and maintenance. HSS cutters typically produce 200-400 holes in mild steel before requiring sharpening or replacement, whilst TCT cutters can last 3-5 times longer. Always use cutting fluid and inspect teeth regularly for wear or damage.

Can I use mag drill bits in a standard pillar drill?

Whilst technically possible with appropriate adapters, annular cutters are specifically designed for magnetic drills and may not perform optimally in pillar drills due to different cutting speeds, feed rates, and rigidity requirements. Always follow manufacturer recommendations for best results and safety.