Unibor E4000 Magnetic Drill

Unibor E4000 Magnetic Drill — The Drilling Essential for Fabrication and Construction

The Unibor E4000 is a 1200W magnetic drilling machine engineered for professionals who need reliable, versatile hole-making capability on ferrous metal structures. Designed for use in fabrication, construction, railways, and petrochemical applications, it handles core drilling up to 2" diameter and 2" depth, as well as twist drilling and countersinking in a single platform. The E4000 incorporates Unibor's DrillSmart technology alongside a 2-speed gearbox, Smart Control, LiftShield, and an LED work light, making it a comprehensive solution for demanding job-site conditions. CSA approved and built to accept standard 3/4" Weldon shank cutters, it is ready to integrate into existing tooling inventories without additional adapters.

Technical Specifications

Unlike single-function magnetic drills, the E4000 combines core drilling, twist drilling, and countersinking in one machine, eliminating the need to swap tools for common secondary operations. The DrillSmart system actively protects both the machine and the cutter, extending consumable life and reducing downtime on the job — a meaningful advantage over drills that rely solely on operator technique. The 2248 lb magnetic holding force and CSA approval give contractors confidence when working on structural steel, pipe, and other critical ferrous substrates.

Key Features & Benefits

DrillSmart Technology

Unibor's DrillSmart is an intuitive control system designed to maximize both machine life and cutter life by managing operating parameters during the cut. For contractors, this translates directly to fewer broken cutters and less unplanned downtime, particularly when operators of varying experience levels are using the machine.

2-Speed Gearbox

The selectable 2-speed gearbox provides 600 RPM in Gear 1 for cutters up to 1-3/16" and 300 RPM in Gear 2 for cutters from 1-3/16" up to 2". Matching spindle speed to cutter diameter reduces heat buildup and extends cutter life, which is critical when running large-diameter annular cutters through structural steel.

High-Force Electromagnet

The 57W electromagnet delivers 2248 lbs of holding force at 20°C on workpieces of 1" minimum thickness, providing a stable drilling platform without the need for secondary clamping on qualifying surfaces. This level of holding force is essential for safe overhead, vertical, and inverted drilling operations.

Smart Control & LiftShield

Smart Control manages the machine's operational systems through the control panel, while LiftShield provides an additional layer of protection against unintended machine movement. Together, these features reduce operator risk and help maintain consistent drilling performance across a shift.

LED Work Light

An integrated LED work light illuminates the cutting zone, improving hole placement accuracy in low-light environments such as confined spaces, structural bays, and night-shift operations — without requiring a separate task light.

Quick Release Interchangeable Handle & Internal Cabling

The quick release interchangeable handle allows the operator to reposition the grip for different drilling orientations, improving ergonomics and control. Internal cabling keeps the power lead routed away from moving parts and the work area, reducing snag hazards and cable wear on active job sites.

Multi-Function Capability

Beyond core drilling, the E4000 supports twist drilling up to 2/3" and countersinking up to 1-3/16" using the included drill chuck adaptor (RD33153). This versatility allows a single machine to handle multiple hole-making tasks without returning to the shop for a different tool.

Common Applications

Structural Steel Fabrication

Core drilling bolt holes, connection plates, and penetrations in structural steel members during fabrication — where precise, repeatable hole geometry is required.

Construction Site Drilling

On-site drilling of ferrous steel beams, columns, and decking for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing penetrations, anchor bolt holes, and connection hardware.

Railway Infrastructure

Drilling rail sections, tie plates, and structural components in railway maintenance and construction environments, as identified in the machine's intended use documentation.

Petrochemical & Industrial Facilities

Drilling pipe flanges, structural supports, and equipment mounting points in petrochemical plants and industrial facilities where ferrous metal drilling is required.

Pipe Drilling with Pipe Adaptor Kit

Using the optional pipe adaptor kit (adjustable angle plates RD3328 with cap screws RD4325 and washers RD4205), the E4000 can be mounted securely on round pipe sections for drilling saddle holes and branch connections.

Countersinking and Twist Drilling

Secondary hole operations including countersinking up to 1-3/16" and twist drilling up to 2/3" using the drill chuck adaptor, reducing the number of tools required on site.

Compatible Materials

• Ferrous metals (primary intended material)
• Mild steel (0.2/0.3C grade — rated cutting capacity)
• Structural steel sections (beams, columns, plates)
• Steel pipe and tube (with pipe adaptor kit)
• Steel decking and sheet (minimum 1" effective thickness for full magnetic holding force)

Product Documents

• E4000 Operator Manual

Application Instructions

Setup and Magnet Placement

1. Ensure the underside of the magnet base is clean, flat, and free of swarf and dirt before placing on the workpiece.
2. Verify the workpiece is bare ferrous metal, flat, and at least 1" thick for full magnetic holding force. If the workpiece is thinner than 1", position substitute material under the magnet and workpiece to achieve adequate thickness, or use an alternative secure restraint method.
3. Attach the safety strap (RD4329) through the lugs at the front of the housing and secure it to a fixed independent feature before activating the machine.
4. Ensure the magnet is OFF before plugging in the machine.
5. Check all electrical supply cables for damage before use. Do not use if any damage is present.

Gear Selection

1. For cutters up to 1-3/16" diameter, select Gear Position 1 (600 RPM).
2. For cutters from 1-3/16" to 2" diameter, select Gear Position 2 (300 RPM).

Cutter Mounting

1. Disconnect the machine from the power source before changing cutters.
2. Lay the machine on its side with feed handles uppermost and wind the arbor down to its lowest point to access socket screws (RD4066).
3. Place the appropriate pilot through the hole in the cutter shank. Insert the shank into the arbor bore, aligning the two drive flats with the socket screws.
4. Tighten both screws securely using the hexagon key. Verify cutter-retaining screws are tight before operating.

Drilling Operation

1. Ensure the coolant bottle contains sufficient cutting oil before starting. Use only approved cutting fluid — do not use water-diluted cutting oil.
2. Position the guard over the cutter before activating the machine.
3. Start the machine using the control panel motor start button.
4. Apply light pressure when commencing the cut until the cutter is introduced into the work surface, then increase pressure sufficiently to load the motor. Do not apply excessive pressure — it does not increase penetration speed and may activate the overload protection or cause excessive heat.
5. Occasionally depress the pilot to verify cutting fluid is being correctly metered.
6. Keep the inside of the cutter clear of swarf to maintain full operating depth.
7. On completion of the cut, a slug will be ejected — do not operate the machine during slug ejection as it may cause injury. Ensure the slug from the previous hole has been ejected before commencing the next cut.
8. Stop the motor by depressing the MOTOR stop button. Do NOT stop the motor by depressing the MAGNET switch.

Pipe Adaptor Kit Fitting

1. Attach adjustable angle plates (RD3328) with cap screws (RD4325) and washers (RD4205) — 4 of each — to the magnet sides. Do not tighten yet.
2. Locate the machine on the centerline of the pipe, ensuring the magnet is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the pipe.
3. Switch on the magnet and move the sliding plates down to the outside diameter of the pipe. Tighten screws on both sides by hand, then verify the full length of the moving plates contacts the pipe at front and back. Fasten the plates securely.
4. Feed the safety strap through the lugs at the front of the housing, around the pipe, and pull tight.
5. When cutting, do not use excessive pressure — allow the cutter to ease into the cutting surface.

Safety Data Summary

Hazard Information

• Risk of electric shock if used in wet or damp conditions, or with damaged cables.
• Risk of fire or explosion if operated in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust.
• Risk of personal injury from machine movement if the magnet becomes detached from the workpiece — always use the safety strap.
• Risk of injury from ejected slugs on completion of each cut.
• Risk of injury from sharp swarf and cutters during cutter changes.
• Risk of entanglement from loose clothing, jewelry, or long hair near rotating parts.
• Cutting tools may shatter — always position the guard over the cutter before activating the machine.
• Do not use on DC supply or on any structure where arc welding is in progress — DC current will earth back through the magnet and cause irreparable damage.
• Workpieces thinner than 3.5mm (approx. 1/8") will result in insufficient magnetic force.

Personal Protective Equipment

• Approved eye protectors must be worn at all times when operating the machine.
• Ear defenders must be worn at all times when operating the machine.
• Safety gloves must be worn when removing cutters from the arbor or handling swarf.
• All recommended PPE must be worn at all times during operation.

Safe Handling

• Maximum single-person lifting weight is 25 kg — use appropriate lifting assistance for heavier loads.
• Ensure the magnet is OFF before plugging in the machine.
• Inspect all electrical supply cables before each use; replace if damaged.
• Disconnect from the power source before changing cutters or performing any maintenance.
• Remove ties, rings, watches, and loose adornments before operating. Secure long hair with an approved restraint.
• If the machine is accidentally dropped, thoroughly examine it for damage and verify correct function before resuming use.
• When using in an inverted position, use only the minimum amount of coolant and prevent coolant from entering the motor unit.
• If the cutter becomes stuck, stop the motor immediately, disconnect from power, and turn the arbor to and fro to free it. Do not attempt to free a stuck cutter by switching the motor on and off.
• Always ensure repairs are conducted by approved Unibor agents.
• Store the machine in a safe and secure location when not in use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the maximum hole size the E4000 can drill?
A: The E4000 can drill holes up to 2" diameter and 2" deep in 0.2/0.3C mild steel using annular cutters with a 3/4" Weldon shank.

Q: Can the E4000 be used for twist drilling and countersinking, or only core drilling?
A: Yes — in addition to core drilling, the E4000 supports twist drilling up to 2/3" and countersinking up to 1-3/16" using the included drill chuck adaptor (RD33153).

Q: Which gear position should I use for a given cutter size?
A: Use Gear Position 1 (600 RPM) for cutters up to 1-3/16" diameter. Use Gear Position 2 (300 RPM) for cutters from 1-3/16" up to 2" diameter.

Q: What is the minimum workpiece thickness for safe magnetic attachment?
A: The workpiece should be at least 1" thick for full magnetic holding force (2248 lbs at 20°C). Thinner material progressively reduces magnetic performance. If the workpiece is thinner than approximately 3.5mm, magnetic force will be insufficient and an alternative secure restraint method must be used.

Q: Can the E4000 be used on a DC power supply or near arc welding?
A: No. The E4000 is rated for single-phase 50–60Hz AC supply only and must never be used on a DC supply. It must also not be used on any structure where arc welding is in progress, as DC current will earth back through the magnet and cause irreparable damage.

Q: What extension cable can be used with the E4000?
A: For a 120V supply, the recommended maximum extension cable length is 11-1/2 ft of 3-core x 14AWG. Exceeding this length will result in reduced magnet traction and motor power.

Q: How often should the carbon brushes be inspected?
A: Brushes should be checked at least once a week if the machine is used frequently. If a brush has worn more than 2/3 of its original length, it must be replaced to avoid damage to the machine.