Unibor E6000 Pivot Magnetic Drill

Unibor E6000 Pivot Magnetic Drill — 1500W Variable Speed with Pivot Base for Pipework Drilling

The Unibor E6000 Pivot is a professional-grade magnetic drilling machine engineered for fabrication, construction, railways, and petrochemical applications where drilling into ferrous metals is required. Powered by a 1500W variable speed motor and equipped with a pivot base, it is specifically designed to handle drilling through pipework and other thin or uneven surfaces that standard magnetic drills cannot accommodate. With a 2" cutter capacity and 3" depth of cut, the E6000 Pivot supports annular cutting, twist drilling, countersinking, and tapping in a single platform. Advanced integrated technologies — including DrillSmart, Liftshield, Smart Control, and PermaMag — make this machine a high-capability solution for trades professionals demanding reliability and versatility on demanding job sites.

Technical Specifications

The E6000 Pivot distinguishes itself from conventional magnetic drills through its pivot base design, which enables secure attachment and accurate drilling on curved surfaces such as pipe — a task that flat-base magnetic drills cannot reliably perform. The integration of DrillSmart technology actively protects both the machine and the cutter during operation, extending tool life and reducing downtime on site. The PermaMag feature and 1895 lb magnetic holding force provide a secure, stable platform even in demanding structural steel environments.

Key Features & Benefits

Pivot Base for Pipework and Curved Surfaces

The pivot base is the defining feature of the E6000 Pivot, allowing the machine to seat securely on round or uneven surfaces such as pipe. This enables contractors to drill accurately through pipework without the need for additional fixturing that would otherwise be required with a standard flat-base magnetic drill.

DrillSmart Technology

DrillSmart is Unibor's integrated intelligence system designed to maximize both machine and cutter life during operation. By monitoring and managing drilling conditions, it helps prevent premature cutter wear and motor overload, reducing consumable costs and unplanned downtime on the job.

PermaMag and 1895 lb Magnetic Holding Force

The PermaMag functionality and 1895 lb holding force provide a highly secure magnetic connection to ferrous steel workpieces. This level of adhesion is critical when drilling overhead, on vertical faces, or in positions where machine movement would compromise hole accuracy or operator safety.

Liftshield Safety System

Liftshield is a protective feature that monitors magnetic adhesion and provides a safeguard against the machine lifting off the workpiece during operation. For contractors working in elevated or awkward positions, this adds a critical layer of protection against loss of machine control.

Smart Control

Smart Control provides the operator with intuitive management of the machine's operating parameters directly from the control panel. This simplifies setup and adjustment during multi-task operations, reducing the time needed to switch between drilling modes on site.

2-Speed Gearbox with Variable Speed Motor

The 2-speed gearbox — delivering 100–345 RPM in Gear 1 and 200–600 RPM in Gear 2 — allows the operator to match cutting speed to cutter diameter and material, optimizing both cut quality and cutter life. Combined with the variable speed 1500W motor, the E6000 Pivot handles a wide range of annular cutter sizes and material thicknesses without requiring a separate machine.

Multi-Function Capability: Drilling, Tapping, Countersinking, Twist Drilling

Beyond annular cutting, the E6000 Pivot supports twist drilling up to 3/4", tapping up to 3/4", and countersinking up to 1-3/16" via the included 1/2" chuck. This all-in-one capability reduces the number of tools a contractor needs to bring to a structural steel or fabrication job.

LED Work Light and Internal Cabling

The integrated LED work light illuminates the cutting zone for accurate positioning in low-light environments such as confined spaces or night work. Internal cabling keeps the machine's wiring routed safely away from moving parts and the work area, reducing snag hazards and improving overall machine durability.

Quick Release Interchangeable Handle

The quick release interchangeable handle allows the operator to reposition the handle to suit the working orientation — particularly useful when drilling in confined spaces or at awkward angles. This reduces operator fatigue and improves control during extended use.

Common Applications

Drilling Through Pipework

The pivot base is specifically designed for drilling holes in round pipe sections, making the E6000 Pivot the correct tool for pipe penetrations in mechanical, plumbing, and structural applications where a flat-base drill cannot achieve a stable seating.

Structural Steel Fabrication

The E6000 Pivot is suited for drilling bolt holes, access holes, and connection points in structural steel beams, columns, and plates in fabrication shops and on construction sites.

Construction and Site Work

With its high magnetic holding force and CSA-approved rating, the E6000 Pivot is appropriate for on-site structural steel drilling tasks including beam connections, staircase fabrication, and steel frame assembly.

Railway and Infrastructure

The manual identifies railways as a primary intended application, where drilling into rail sections, track components, and structural steel infrastructure is required with a portable, magnetically anchored machine.

Petrochemical and Industrial Environments

The E6000 Pivot is designed for use in petrochemical and industrial settings where drilling into ferrous metal pipework, vessels, and structural supports is required as part of maintenance or installation work.

Tapping and Thread Cutting in Steel

With tapping capacity up to 3/4", the E6000 Pivot can cut threads directly in ferrous steel components on-site, eliminating the need to transport workpieces to a separate tapping station.

Countersinking and Twist Drilling

The included 1/2" chuck enables countersinking up to 1-3/16" and twist drilling up to 3/4", making the machine suitable for finishing operations and general-purpose hole-making beyond annular cutting.

Compatible Materials

• Ferrous metals (primary intended material)
• Mild steel (0.2/0.3C steel — rated capacity)
• Structural steel plate (minimum 1" thickness recommended for full magnetic performance)
• Steel pipe and tubular sections (via pivot base adapter)
• Steel beams, columns, and fabricated sections
• Railway track and infrastructure steel components

Product Documents

• E6000 Pivot Operator Manual

Application Instructions

Setup and Mounting

1. Ensure the magnet is switched OFF before plugging the machine into the power supply.
2. Inspect all electrical supply cables and extension leads for damage before use. Replace if damaged.
3. Clean the underside of the magnetic base — it must be flat, clean, and dry for full magnetic performance.
4. Position the machine on the workpiece. For pipe drilling, attach adjustable angle plates (RD3328) with cap screws (RD4325) and washers (RD4205, 4 off each) to the magnet sides. Do not tighten yet.
5. Locate the machine on the centerline of the pipe, ensuring the magnet is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the pipe.
6. Switch on the magnet and move the sliding plates down to the outside diameter of the pipe. Tighten screws on both sides by hand, verify full contact along the plate length front and back, then fasten securely.
7. Feed the safety strap (RDC4083) through the lugs at the front of the housing, around the pipe, and pull tight. Always use the safety chain — mounting can release.
8. Before operating, verify correct function of all operational systems, switches, and magnet.

Mounting Cutters

1. Disconnect the machine from the power source before changing cutters.
2. With the machine in the upright position, ensure the Arbor Assembly (CA120) is fully inserted into the Arbor Spindle (RDC4009).
3. Take the appropriate pilot and place it through the hole in the cutter shank.
4. Insert the shank of the cutter into the bore of the Arbor Assembly, ensuring alignment of the two drive flats with the socket screws.
5. Tighten both screws using the hexagon key. Ensure cutter-retaining screws are secured tightly before operating.

Fitting the Chuck (for Twist Drilling, Tapping, Countersinking)

1. Insert RDC4087 (Arbor Shank) into RDC4009 (Arbor Spindle) and ensure a good, tight fit.
2. Insert RDC4084 (1/2" Chuck) into RDC4087 and ensure a good, tight fit.
3. To remove the chuck, reverse the sequence using RDC4086 (Drift).

Gear Selection

1. Select Gear 1 (Slide Selector Position Up) for lower speeds (100–345 RPM) when using larger diameter cutters.
2. Select Gear 2 (Slide Selector Position Down) for higher speeds (200–600 RPM) when using smaller cutters or for twist drilling and tapping operations.
3. Refer to the Cutting Speed Selection chart in the manual for cutter-size-to-speed recommendations.

Drilling Operation

1. Ensure the coolant bottle contains sufficient cutting oil for the required operation. Refill as required. Use only approved cutting fluid — do not use water-diluted cutting oil.
2. Keep the inside of the cutter clear of swarf, as swarf restricts operating depth.
3. Start the machine following the control panel operation instructions.
4. Apply light pressure when commencing the cut until the cutter is introduced into the work surface. Pressure can then be increased sufficiently to load the motor.
5. Do not apply excessive pressure — it does not increase penetration speed and will activate the safety overload protection, stopping the motor. Restart by operating the motor start button.
6. Occasionally depress the pilot to ensure cutting fluid is being correctly metered.
7. Always ensure the slug has been ejected from the previous hole before commencing the next cut. On completion of the cut, a slug will be ejected.
8. If the slug sticks in the cutter, move the machine to a flat surface, switch on the magnet, and gently bring the cutter down to contact the surface to straighten and eject the slug.
9. ALWAYS switch off the motor by depressing the MOTOR stop button. Do NOT switch off the motor by depressing the MAGNET switch.

Maintenance Schedule

1. Every operation: Visually check the machine for damage; check the magnetic base for flatness and cleanliness.
2. Every week: Check operation of the machine; check brush wear (replace brushes if worn more than 2/3 of original length); check alignment of the machine.
3. Every month: Check grease levels in gearbox; check armature condition.
4. Apply a small amount of light oil lubricant regularly to the slide and arbor support bearing.
5. Periodically clean brass gib strips and apply light machine oil to wear surfaces. Adjust slide and bearing bracket alignment as described in the maintenance section of the manual.
6. Always disconnect from the power supply before performing any maintenance work.
7. Only use approved Unibor agents for repairs.

Safety Data Summary

Hazard Information

• Risk of electric shock if used in wet or damp conditions — do not use in wet environments.
• Risk of fire or explosion if operated in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust.
• Risk of personal injury if the magnetic base releases from the workpiece — always use the safety strap (RDC4083).
• Cutting tools may shatter — always position the guard over the cutter before activating the machine.
• On completion of each cut, a slug will be ejected — ensure the ejection path is clear.
• Swarf and cutters are sharp — use tools or a brush to remove swarf; wear safety gloves when changing cutters.
• Do not use on the same structure when arc welding is in progress — DC current will earth back through the magnet and cause irreparable damage.
• Do not use on DC power supply — suitable for single phase 50–60Hz AC only.
• Magnetic performance is progressively reduced on material less than 1" thick — use supplementary restraint if thinner material cannot be avoided.
• If the machine is accidentally dropped, thoroughly examine for damage and verify correct function before resuming use.
• THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED — never remove the grounding prong or modify the plug.

Personal Protective Equipment

• Eye protection must be worn when operating the machine (information plate symbol requirement).
• Ear defenders must be worn when operating the machine (information plate symbol requirement).
• Safety gloves when changing cutters or removing swarf.
• All other recommended PPE appropriate to the work environment.

Safe Handling

• Ensure the magnet is OFF before plugging in the machine.
• Always secure the machine with the safety strap (RDC4083) and stationary rings (RDC4082) before operating — affix stationary rings into the magnet uppermost side hole.
• Disconnect from the power source before changing cutters or performing any maintenance.
• Remove ties, rings, watches, and loose adornments before operating. Secure long hair before operating.
• Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry when operating.
• If the cutter becomes stuck in the workpiece, stop the motor immediately and disconnect from the power source. Turn the arbor to and fro to free it — do not attempt to free by switching the motor on and off.
• Inspect all electrical cables before each use — replace if damaged.
• Only use extension cables approved for site conditions; do not exceed 11-1/2 ft of 3-core x 14AWG for 120V supply.
• Regularly clear the work area and machine of swarf and dirt, paying particular attention to the underside of the magnet base.
• Store the machine in a safe and secure location when not in use, out of reach of untrained persons.
• Any modifications to this machine will invalidate the guarantee.
• Tool service must be performed only by qualified repair personnel using identical replacement parts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes the E6000 Pivot different from a standard flat-base magnetic drill?
A: The E6000 Pivot features a pivot base with an adjustable angle plate pipe adapter kit, allowing it to seat securely on curved surfaces such as round pipe. A standard flat-base magnetic drill cannot achieve stable magnetic contact on a curved surface, making the E6000 Pivot the correct tool for pipework drilling applications.

Q: What is the minimum material thickness required for full magnetic holding force?
A: The machine is rated at 1895 lbs holding force with a minimum plate thickness of 1". Use on material less than 1" thick will progressively reduce magnetic performance. If thinner material cannot be avoided, substitute material should be positioned under the magnet and workpiece to achieve adequate thickness, or an alternative secure restraint method must be used.

Q: Can the E6000 Pivot be used for twist drilling, tapping, and countersinking as well as annular cutting?
A: Yes. The machine includes a 1/2" chuck (RDC4084) and arbor shank (RDC4087) that enable twist drilling up to 3/4", tapping up to 3/4", and countersinking up to 1-3/16", in addition to annular cutting up to 2" diameter with a 3" depth of cut.

Q: Can the E6000 Pivot be used on a DC power supply or during arc welding operations?
A: No. The machine is suitable only for single phase 50–60Hz AC supply and must not be used on a DC supply. It must also not be used on the same structure when arc welding is in progress, as DC current will earth back through the magnet and cause irreparable damage.

Q: What is the correct extension cable specification for the E6000 Pivot at 120V?
A: For a 120V supply, the recommended maximum extension cable length is 11-1/2 ft of 3-core x 14AWG. Using a cable of inadequate capacity will result in a loss of magnetic traction and a reduction of motor power.

Q: How often should the carbon brushes be inspected and replaced?
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. Failure to replace worn brushes may cause damage to the machine.