Unibor E3000 Magnetic Drill

Unibor E3000 Magnetic Drill — Lightweight, Portable & Powerful 850W Performance

The Unibor E3000 is a 850W magnetic drilling machine engineered for contractors and trades professionals who need reliable, portable hole-cutting capability on ferrous metal structures. With a 1-1/4" annular cutter capacity and 1-3/8" depth of cut, it handles a broad range of drilling tasks across fabrication, construction, railways, and petrochemical applications. The machine's 2,250 lb magnet adhesion force and 25.8 lb frame deliver a stable, secure platform without sacrificing portability. CSA-approved and equipped with Unibor's DrillSmart technology, the E3000 is purpose-built to maximize both machine longevity and cutter life on the job site.

Technical Specifications

The E3000 distinguishes itself from comparable magnetic drills by combining Unibor's DrillSmart overload-protection technology with internal cabling and a robust 2,248 lb magnet — features typically found on heavier, higher-cost machines — at an entry-level price point. Its dual-function capability (annular cutter and twist drill via chuck adaptor) reduces the need for a second tool on site. The CSA approval confirms the machine meets recognized safety standards for use in North American construction environments.

Key Features & Benefits

DrillSmart Technology

DrillSmart is Unibor's integrated overload-protection system that monitors motor load and stops the motor when excessive pressure is applied, preventing damage to both the machine and the cutter. Contractors can restart immediately via the motor start button, minimizing downtime. This technology directly extends cutter and machine service life, reducing consumable costs over time.

2,248 lb Magnet Adhesion Force

The 57W electromagnet delivers 2,248 lbs of holding force at 20°C on a minimum 1" thick ferrous plate, providing a secure, stable base during drilling operations. This high clamping force reduces the risk of machine movement or walk during the cut, which is critical when working overhead, on vertical faces, or in confined structural steel environments. Note: magnetic performance decreases progressively on material thinner than 1"; supplementary restraint must be used in those conditions.

Internal Cabling

The E3000 routes all electrical cabling internally through the machine body rather than exposing it externally. This design significantly reduces the risk of cable snagging, abrasion damage, and accidental disconnection during operation — common causes of unplanned downtime on busy job sites.

Dual-Function: Annular Cutter and Twist Drilling

The machine accepts 3/4" Weldon shank annular cutters for core drilling up to 1-1/4" diameter, and converts to twist drilling up to 1/2" via the included chuck adaptor (RD33153). This versatility allows a single tool to cover multiple hole-making tasks without requiring a separate drill on site.

Smart Control & LiftShield

The Smart Control panel provides intuitive motor and magnet switching with built-in protective logic, while LiftShield adds an additional layer of operator protection by monitoring magnet engagement status. Together these systems help prevent accidental motor activation before the magnet is properly secured to the workpiece.

LED Work Light

An integrated LED work light illuminates the cutting zone directly, improving visibility in low-light conditions such as confined structural spaces, night shifts, or poorly lit fabrication bays — reducing the chance of misaligned cuts.

Quick Release Interchangeable Handle

The quick-release handle system allows the operator to reposition or swap the feed handle rapidly without tools, accommodating different working orientations including overhead and vertical drilling positions.

Lightweight & Portable at 25.8 lbs

At 25.8 lbs, the E3000 sits within the single-person safe lifting limit (25 kg / 55 lbs), making it practical to carry and reposition across a job site without mechanical assistance. Its compact overall length of 10-15/16" also allows use in tighter structural access points.

Common Applications

Structural Steel Fabrication

The E3000 is designed for drilling holes in ferrous metals in fabrication shops, where consistent hole quality and cutter longevity are priorities. The DrillSmart overload protection helps prevent cutter breakage during high-volume production runs.

Construction & Site Work

On construction sites, the machine's strong magnet and portable weight allow it to be positioned on beams, columns, and plates at height or in confined areas without requiring a fixed setup. The safety strap (RD4329, included) provides mandatory secondary restraint per operational safety requirements.

Railway Infrastructure

The manual explicitly lists railways as an intended application. The machine's secure magnetic clamping and robust build suit the demanding tolerances and access constraints typical of rail track and bridge steelwork.

Petrochemical & Industrial Plant

For petrochemical environments requiring precision hole-cutting in structural and process steelwork, the E3000's controlled cutting action and overload protection reduce the risk of cutter failure in critical applications.

Pipe Drilling (with Pipe Adaptor Kit)

Using the optional pipe adaptor kit (adjustable angle plates RD3328 with cap screws and washers), the E3000 can be mounted securely on curved pipe surfaces for saddle-hole cutting, with the safety strap providing additional restraint around the pipe.

Twist Drilling Operations

With the drill chuck adaptor (RD33153) and included drill chuck (RD43099), the E3000 converts to a 1/2" capacity twist drill for applications where standard twist bits are required rather than annular cutters.

Compatible Materials

• Ferrous metals (primary intended material)
• Mild steel (0.2/0.3C grade — rated capacity basis)
• Structural steel sections (beams, columns, plates — minimum 1" thickness for full magnet performance)
• Steel pipe and tube (with pipe adaptor kit)

Product Documents

• E3000 Operator Manual

Application Instructions

Pre-Operation Setup

1. Inspect the machine, mains cable, and all extension leads for damage before use. Do not use if any damage is present.
2. Ensure the magnet switch is OFF before plugging the machine into the power supply.
3. Clean the underside of the magnet base — it must be flat, clean, and dry for full holding force.
4. Position the machine on the workpiece, ensuring the work surface is bare ferrous metal, flat, and at least 1" thick. If thinner, place supplementary ferrous material beneath the workpiece or use an alternative secure restraint method.
5. Attach the safety strap (RD4329) through the lugs on the machine housing and secure it to a fixed independent structural feature before activating the magnet.
6. Switch on the magnet and verify the machine is firmly held before starting the motor.

Mounting Annular Cutters

1. Disconnect the machine from the power source.
2. Lay the machine on its side with feed handles uppermost and wind the arbor down to its lowest point to access the socket screws (RD4066).
3. Insert the appropriate pilot through the hole in the cutter shank.
4. Insert the cutter shank (3/4" Weldon) into the arbor bore, aligning the two drive flats with the socket screws.
5. Tighten both socket screws securely using the hexagon key (RD4088 4mm A/F).
6. Position the guard over the cutter before activating the machine.

Drilling Operation

1. Ensure the coolant bottle contains sufficient cutting oil for the operation. Use only approved cutting fluid — do not use water-diluted cutting oil.
2. Start the machine using the control panel motor start button.
3. Apply light downward pressure when commencing the cut until the cutter engages the work surface, then increase pressure sufficiently to load the motor.
4. Do not apply excessive pressure — this does not increase penetration speed and will trigger the DrillSmart overload protection, stopping the motor. Restart using the motor start button.
5. Occasionally depress the pilot to verify cutting fluid is being correctly metered to the cutter.
6. Keep the inside of the cutter clear of swarf, as swarf buildup restricts operating depth.
7. On completion of the cut, a slug will be ejected — do not operate the machine at this point as the ejected slug may cause injury.
8. Always ensure the slug from the previous hole has been ejected before commencing the next cut.
9. Stop the motor using the MOTOR stop button. Do not switch off the motor using the MAGNET switch.

Fitting the Drill Chuck (Twist Drilling)

1. Lay the machine on its side and disconnect from the power source.
2. Unscrew the two grub screws at the top of the arbor and remove the arbor from the spindle.
3. Remove the arbor support bracket and guard with the arbor retained.
4. Mount the chuck using chuck adaptor RD33153.
5. Reassembly is the reverse of the removal sequence.

Pipe Adaptor Kit Fitting

1. Attach adjustable angle plates (RD3328) to the magnet sides using cap screws (RD4325) and washers (RD4205, 4 off each) — do not fully tighten at this stage.
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 slide the adjustable plates down to contact the outside diameter of the pipe.
4. Tighten the 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.
5. Feed the safety strap through the lugs at the front of the housing, around the pipe, and pull tight.
6. 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 the machine is used in wet or damp conditions, or if the mains cable or extension lead is damaged.
• 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 (RD4329) secured to a fixed independent feature.
• Risk of injury from ejected slugs on completion of a cut.
• Risk of injury from sharp swarf and cutters when changing cutters or clearing swarf.
• Risk of entanglement with rotating parts from loose clothing, jewelry, ties, rings, watches, or unrestrained long hair.
• Cutting tools may shatter — always position the guard over the cutter before activating the machine.
• Do not use on DC supply or on the same structure where arc welding is in progress — DC current will earth back through the magnet and cause irreparable damage.
• Magnetic performance is progressively reduced on material thinner than 1" — alternative secure restraint must be used.
• THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED. Do not remove the grounding prong or use adaptor plugs.

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 changing cutters or removing swarf.
• All recommended PPE must be worn at all times during operation.

Safe Handling

• Maximum safe single-person lifting weight is 25 kg — take care when lifting and transporting the machine.
• Ensure the magnet is OFF before plugging in the machine.
• Inspect all electrical cables and extension leads before each use — replace if damaged.
• Only use extension cables approved for site conditions. For 120V supply, do not exceed 11-1/2 ft of 3-core x 16AWG extension cable.
• Disconnect from the power source before changing cutters, making adjustments, or performing maintenance.
• Remove ties, rings, watches, and loose adornments before operating. Secure long hair with an approved restraint.
• If the machine is accidentally dropped, thoroughly inspect for damage and verify correct function before resuming use.
• If the cutter becomes stuck, stop the motor immediately, disconnect from power, and turn the arbor back and forth to free it. Do not attempt to free a stuck cutter by switching the motor on and off.
• When using in an inverted position, use only the minimum amount of coolant and ensure coolant does not enter the motor unit.
• Repairs must only be conducted by approved Unibor agents.
• Any modifications to the machine will invalidate the guarantee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What shank size do cutters need to be for the E3000?
A: The E3000 accepts cutters with a 3/4" Weldon shank. The maximum cutter capacity is 1-1/4" diameter with a 1-3/8" depth of cut in 0.2/0.3C mild steel.

Q: Can the E3000 be used for twist drilling as well as annular cutting?
A: Yes. Using the drill chuck adaptor (RD33153) and the included drill chuck (RD43099), the E3000 converts to a twist drill with a 1/2" chuck capacity.

Q: What happens if I apply too much pressure during drilling?
A: The DrillSmart overload protection system will stop the motor automatically. The motor can be restarted immediately by pressing the motor start button. Excessive pressure does not increase penetration speed and risks generating excessive heat and inconsistent slug ejection.

Q: What is the minimum workpiece thickness for full magnet performance?
A: The magnet is rated at 2,248 lbs holding force on a minimum 1" thick ferrous plate. On material thinner than 1", magnetic performance is progressively reduced. If working on thinner material, supplementary ferrous material should be placed beneath the workpiece to achieve adequate thickness, or an alternative secure restraint method must be used.

Q: Can the E3000 be used on DC power supply or near arc welding?
A: No. The E3000 is rated for single-phase 50–60Hz AC supply only and must not be used on DC supply. It must not be used on the same structure where arc welding is in progress, as DC current will earth back through the magnet and cause irreparable damage.

Q: What extension cable length is permitted with the E3000?
A: On a 120V supply, the extension cable must not exceed 11-1/2 ft of 3-core x 16AWG cable. Using an undersized or excessively long extension cable will result in reduced magnet holding force and reduced motor power.

Q: Is the E3000 certified for use in North America?
A: Yes. The E3000 is CSA approved.