Magnetic tool storage

I've been having a bit of a sort out and shift around in the workshop after completing a couple of projects. I've swapped the the positions of my lathe and mill as I think the storage space between the two will work better. I'm also looking to improve the storage of the assortment of various scanners, Allen keys etc that perhaps tend to end up balanced on various parts of the machines. Has anybody used these silverline magnetic tool holders?

**LINK**

I'm thinking about fitting them to some cabinet doors I have next to my machines. Easy to grab!

Regar

Bob..

Hi Bob

I've not used them but 2 things come to mind.

The tools may become slightjy magnetised and grow a "beard" of swarf

You'll need to keep the doors closed or only work in aluminium or brass as the tool holders will attract iron/steel swarf and particles as well.

It's amazing how the stuff can spread itself!

Keith

Edited By Keith Long on 10/09/2013 14:20:22

I use the magnets from ikea. They are about three inches long and only cost £1.99 each so I have one on all machines. They have a plastic cover in various colours so easy to remove any swarf. I believe they are in the kitchen department and they are very strong. Easily holds up spanners and chuck keys. But yes they do magnetise slightly so go to pound land and get yourself a demagnetiser can't remember how much they cost.

Bri

I too get fed up with magnetized tools, and whilst I do have an old, or even ancient, tape head demagnetiser which does work on small tools, it can be a right pain. On the other hand, sometimes it can be a boon, especially when trying to insert screws in awkward places. Personally, I would avoid, but then I do have the luxury of having various odd sets of drawers & trays around the place which suffice to hold all the tools associated with that particular piece of kit.

Regards,

Peter G. Shaw

I use magnetised tool holders all over my workshop, on overhead beams, tool cupboard doors and on the walls. I get them from CPC (Usual disclaimer) Swarf is easily wiped off. They are a good way of using empty space.

Regards

Geoff

Magnets and tools are for me not a good combination, the one I have is stored far away and only comes in use when a small part lost and you are searching the floor to find it. Niko.

This kind of plastic tool holder can be improvised with just 2 in wire mesh. Some areas can be subdivided into finer holes for smaller tools with a bit of wire. Good way of using up the bit of mesh left over when you have made security grills for your shed.

I tend to agree with the comments against magnietic holders. I use small strips of wood screwed to the wall; for allen keys, and other milling machine bits, this has vertical holes to take each item, and for ring spanners a small screw or pin for each spanner works well. Home made, scrap wood, cost zero.

The bracket to the right of the mill below shows the idea:

http://i980.photobucket.com/albums/ae281/dlittlewood/DRO-Console.jpg

David

Edited By David Littlewood on 10/09/2013 18:13:05

Magnetism is like a virus. Evententually you will find your milling cutters magnetised. This can lead to very poor finishes when milling steel.

JA