Magnetic Collectors & Trays

About Magnetic Collectors & Trays

Magnetic collectors and trays are indispensable workshop organisers that use powerful magnets to securely hold screws, nuts, bolts, washers, drill bits, and other ferrous metal components during repairs, maintenance, and assembly work. These practical accessories prevent small parts from rolling away or getting lost, significantly reducing downtime and frustration when working on automotive repairs, machinery servicing, or fabrication projects. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks magnetic parts trays from leading manufacturers including Sealey, Draper, Bahco, and Siegen in various configurations to suit every workshop requirement.

Available in circular bowls, rectangular trays, mesh strainers, and collapsible designs, these magnetic organisers range from compact 100mm bowls perfect for small fasteners through to large-capacity trays for major disassembly projects. Premium stainless steel construction offers exceptional corrosion resistance in harsh workshop environments, whilst magnetic bases allow secure mounting on toolboxes, workbenches, or vehicle panels. Modern designs feature thoughtful elements such as raised edges for containment, mesh bases for drainage when handling oily components, and collapsible options for space-saving storage between jobs.

Applications

• Motor Mechanics: Organising fasteners during engine work, brake repairs, transmission servicing, and general vehicle maintenance
• Plant Engineers: Containing bolts and fittings when servicing industrial machinery and equipment requiring systematic reassembly
• Fabricators and Welders: Holding welding tips, clamps, and metal fixings during workshop fabrication projects
• Bicycle Mechanics: Managing the numerous small components involved in bicycle assembly, repair, and maintenance work
• Electricians: Organising terminal screws, cable clips, and metal fixings during electrical installation tasks
• HVAC Engineers: Keeping track of fasteners when dismantling and reassembling heating and ventilation systems
• Maintenance Technicians: General repair work across all industries involving multiple small metal components
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home workshop projects requiring organised disassembly and reassembly of equipment

Choosing The Right Magnetic Collectors & Trays

Size and Capacity: Small circular bowls (100-150mm diameter) suit light assembly work with limited fasteners, whilst larger rectangular trays (200mm+) accommodate extensive projects. Multi-piece sets like the Sealey 3 Piece Collapsible Magnetic Parts Tray Set offer versatility across different applications.

Material Construction: Stainless steel trays from Bahco and Draper provide superior corrosion resistance essential for automotive workshops with constant exposure to oils and fluids. Standard steel options offer excellent value for dry workshop environments.

Design Features: Mesh or perforated bases allow drainage when working with oily parts whilst retaining components magnetically. Collapsible designs save valuable storage space, whilst raised edges prevent parts sliding off during use. Magnetic bases enable secure mounting on vertical or inverted surfaces.

Magnet Strength: Consider the weight and type of components you'll be storing. Heavy-duty magnets are essential for larger bolts and sockets, whilst lighter magnetic force suffices for small screws and washers.

Safety Information

Keep magnetic trays away from sensitive electronics, data storage devices, mechanical watches, and pacemakers. Whilst the magnetic fields are relatively weak, maintaining adequate separation prevents potential interference. Ensure trays are securely positioned when mounted on vertical surfaces to prevent unexpected detachment under load. When using mesh-based designs with cleaning fluids, follow appropriate chemical handling procedures and ensure adequate workspace ventilation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will magnetic trays hold stainless steel fasteners?

Most common stainless steel fasteners (austenitic grades like 304 or 316) are only weakly magnetic or non-magnetic. However, some stainless steel uses ferritic or martensitic grades that are magnetic. MyToolShed.co.uk's magnetic trays hold ferrous metals strongly, with raised edges providing secondary containment for weakly magnetic materials.

Can I mount magnetic trays on aluminium toolboxes?

No, magnetic trays require ferrous metal surfaces to adhere. Aluminium toolboxes and workbenches won't attract magnets. However, magnetic trays work excellently as free-standing organisers on any bench surface, with their magnetic parts-holding capability remaining fully effective.

What's the benefit of collapsible versus rigid magnetic trays?

Collapsible trays offer significant space-saving advantages for mobile mechanics or workshops with limited storage, folding flat for transportation then expanding when needed. Rigid trays generally provide more robust construction and higher weight capacity, making them better suited for permanent workshop locations handling heavier components.