Unibor E4000 Perm Magnetic Drill

Unibor E4000 Perm Magnetic Drill — Permanent Magnet Safety with 1200W Power

The Unibor E4000 Perm is a professional-grade magnetic drilling machine engineered for contractors and trades professionals who require uninterrupted holding force on ferrous metal structures. Powered by a 1200W motor and equipped with permanent magnet (PermaMag) technology, the E4000 Perm maintains its magnetic hold even in the event of a complete power loss — a critical safety advantage over conventional electromagnetic-only designs. Designed for fabrication, construction, railways, and petrochemical applications, it supports annular cutter drilling up to 2" diameter and 2" deep, as well as twist drilling and countersinking. Smart Control, LiftShield, and DrillSmart technologies are integrated to maximize both operator safety and tool longevity.

Technical Specifications

Unlike standard electromagnetic magnetic drills that lose their hold the moment power is interrupted, the E4000 Perm's permanent magnet system keeps the machine anchored to the workpiece regardless of power status — a meaningful distinction on live job sites where power fluctuations or accidental disconnections are a real risk. The integration of Smart Control, LiftShield, and DrillSmart into a single platform sets this drill apart from basic-feature competitors by addressing motor protection, operator safety, and cutter longevity simultaneously.

Key Features & Benefits

PermaMag Permanent Magnet Technology

The E4000 Perm uses permanent magnet technology to maintain its hold on ferrous metal even during a total power loss. For contractors working at height or in overhead positions, this eliminates the risk of the drill dropping if power is accidentally cut, providing a critical layer of job-site safety that electromagnetic-only drills cannot match.

Smart Control

Smart Control is an integrated electronic management system that governs machine operation for maximum efficiency and protection. It helps prevent motor overload conditions that could damage the tool or interrupt workflow on the job site.

LiftShield Safety System

LiftShield is a dedicated safety technology built into the E4000 Perm to protect the operator. It represents one of the highest safety standards available in this class of magnetic drill, reducing the risk of injury from unexpected machine movement.

DrillSmart Technology

DrillSmart is Unibor's intuitive system designed to maximize both machine life and cutter life by optimizing drilling parameters during operation. For contractors, this translates to fewer cutter replacements and reduced downtime between holes.

2-Speed Gearbox

The two-speed gearbox allows the operator to select the appropriate RPM for the cutter diameter in use: Gear 1 (600 RPM) for cutters up to 1-3/16" and Gear 2 (300 RPM) for larger cutters up to 2". Matching speed to cutter size extends cutter life and improves hole quality.

1125 lbs Magnetic Holding Force

With a holding force of 1124–1125 lbs at 20°C on a workpiece of at least 1" thickness, the E4000 Perm delivers exceptional stability during drilling. This high adhesion rating reduces the risk of machine movement that can cause cutter breakage or injury.

LED Work Light

An integrated LED work light illuminates the cutting area, improving visibility in confined or poorly lit work environments. This allows for more accurate hole placement without the need for supplemental lighting equipment.

Quick Release Interchangeable Handle

The quick release handle system allows operators to reposition or swap handles rapidly to suit different drilling orientations and access requirements. This reduces setup time when working in tight or awkward locations.

Internal Cabling

Internal cable routing keeps electrical leads protected and out of the way during operation. This reduces the risk of cable damage from swarf, moving parts, or snagging on the workpiece.

Drill Chuck Compatibility

The E4000 Perm accepts a drill chuck adaptor (RD33153) for twist drilling up to 1/2" and countersinking up to 1-3/16", expanding its versatility beyond annular cutter work without requiring a separate machine.

Common Applications

Structural Steel Fabrication

The E4000 Perm is designed for drilling holes in ferrous metals in fabrication environments, where precise, repeatable holes up to 2" diameter are required in structural members and plate steel.

Construction Site Drilling

On construction sites where power supply can be unreliable, the permanent magnet system ensures the drill stays anchored to the workpiece even if power is lost, making it suitable for elevated or overhead steel drilling tasks.

Railway Infrastructure

The manual explicitly identifies railway applications as an intended use. The drill's high holding force and safety features make it appropriate for drilling rail components and structural steel in railway maintenance and construction.

Petrochemical Facilities

The E4000 Perm is rated for petrochemical applications where drilling ferrous metal structures is required. Operators must follow all site-specific safety protocols regarding flammable environments, as the drill must not be used in the presence of flammable liquids or gases.

Pipe Drilling with Pipe Adaptor Kit

Using the optional Pipe Adaptor Kit (adjustable angle plates RD3328), the E4000 Perm can be mounted on cylindrical pipe sections for drilling saddle holes and branch connections in pipe fabrication and installation work.

Twist Drilling and Countersinking

With the drill chuck adaptor fitted, the E4000 Perm handles twist drilling up to 1/2" and countersinking up to 1-3/16", making it a multi-function tool for trades professionals who need more than annular cutter capability from a single machine.

Compatible Materials

• Ferrous metals (primary intended material)
• Mild steel (0.2/0.3C grade referenced in datasheet specifications)
• Structural steel plate (minimum 1" thickness recommended for full magnetic holding force)
• Steel pipe and tubular sections (with Pipe Adaptor Kit)

Product Documents

• E4000 Perm Operator Manual

Application Instructions

Before Starting

1. Ensure the magnet is OFF before plugging in the machine.
2. Inspect all electrical supply cables and extension leads; replace if damaged.
3. Check the underside of the magnet base — it must be clean, flat, and free of damage.
4. Verify the workpiece is bare metal, flat, and at least 1" thick for full magnetic performance. If thinner, position substitute material under the magnet and workpiece, or use an alternative secure restraint method.
5. Secure the machine to a fixed independent feature using the safety strap (RD4329) or equivalent restraint before activating.
6. Ensure the cutter-retaining screws are tightened securely.
7. Position the guard over the cutter before activating the machine.
8. Ensure the coolant bottle contains sufficient cutting oil for the required operation.

Mounting Annular Cutters

1. Lay the machine on its side with feed handles uppermost.
2. Wind the arbor down to its lowest point to access the socket screws (RD4066).
3. Place the appropriate pilot through the hole in the cutter shank.
4. Insert the cutter shank into the arbor bore, aligning the two drive flats with the socket screws.
5. Tighten both screws using the hexagon key provided.

Gear Selection

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

Drilling Operation

1. Follow the control panel operation instructions to start the machine.
2. Apply light pressure when commencing the cut until the cutter is introduced into the work surface; then increase pressure sufficiently to load the motor.
3. Do not apply excessive pressure — it does not increase penetration speed and may trigger the safety overload protection, stopping the motor. Restart by pressing the motor start button.
4. Occasionally depress the pilot to verify cutting fluid is being correctly metered.
5. Keep the inside of the cutter clear of swarf to avoid restricting operating depth.
6. Always ensure the slug from the previous hole has been ejected before commencing the next cut.
7. If a 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.
8. To stop, always press the MOTOR stop button. Do NOT switch off the motor using the MAGNET switch.

Fitting the Drill Chuck (for Twist Drilling / Countersinking)

1. Lay the machine on its side.
2. Unscrew the two grub screws at the top of the arbor.
3. Remove the arbor from the spindle, then 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 above sequence.

Pipe Adaptor Kit Fitting

1. Attach adjustable angle plates (RD3328) with cap screws (RD4325) and washers (RD4205, 4 off 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.
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 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 — let the cutter ease into the cutting surface.

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 from machine movement if the magnet becomes detached from the workpiece — always use the safety strap (RD4329) or equivalent restraint.
• Cutting tools may shatter — always position the guard over the cutter before activating the machine.
• Ejected slug hazard upon completion of cut — do not operate the machine as the slug is ejected.
• Swarf and cutters are sharp — always protect hands when changing cutters or removing swarf.
• 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 a DC power supply — suitable for single-phase 50–60Hz AC only.
• Risk of injury if machine is dropped — thoroughly inspect for damage before resuming use.
• Magnetic holding force is progressively reduced on workpieces thinner than 1" — use supplemental restraint if thinner material cannot be avoided.

Personal Protective Equipment

• Eye protection (approved eye protectors) must be worn at all times during operation.
• Ear defenders must be worn at all times during operation.
• Safety gloves when removing cutters or handling swarf.
• All recommended PPE as required by site conditions.

Safe Handling

• Maximum single-person lifting weight is 25 kg — use appropriate lifting assistance for heavier loads.
• Always ensure the magnet is OFF before plugging in the machine.
• 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.
• Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry near rotating machinery.
• Only use extension cables approved for site conditions; do not exceed the recommended extension cable length (11-1/2 ft of 3-core x 14AWG for 120V supply).
• Only use approved cutting fluid — do not use water-diluted cutting oil.
• Apply light machine oil regularly to the slide and arbor support bearing.
• Repairs must be conducted only by approved Unibor agents.
• Store the machine in a safe and secure location when not in use.
• When using in an inverted position, use only the minimum amount of coolant and ensure coolant does not enter the motor unit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the E4000 Perm lose its grip on the workpiece if power is cut?
A: No. The E4000 Perm uses permanent magnet (PermaMag) technology, which maintains its hold on ferrous metal even in cases of total power loss. This is the key safety distinction between this model and standard electromagnetic magnetic drills.

Q: What is the minimum workpiece thickness required for full magnetic holding force?
A: The magnet is rated at 1124–1125 lbs holding force on a workpiece of at least 1" thickness. Use on material thinner than 1" will progressively reduce magnetic performance. If thinner material cannot be avoided, position substitute material under the magnet and workpiece to achieve adequate thickness, or use an alternative secure restraint method.

Q: What shank size do cutters need to be for use with the E4000 Perm?
A: The E4000 Perm accepts cutters with a 3/4" Weldon shank, which is the standard arbor bore size for this machine.

Q: Which gear should I use for different cutter sizes?
A: Use Gear 1 (600 RPM, high speed) for cutters up to 1-3/16" diameter. Use Gear 2 (300 RPM, lower speed) for cutters from 1-3/16" up to 2" diameter. Matching the gear to the cutter size protects both the cutter and the machine.

Q: Can the E4000 Perm be used for twist drilling and countersinking?
A: Yes. Using the drill chuck adaptor (RD33153), the machine supports twist drilling up to 1/2" and countersinking up to 1-3/16", in addition to its primary annular cutter drilling function.

Q: Can the E4000 Perm be used while arc welding is taking place on the same structure?
A: No. The machine must not be used on the same structure when arc welding is in progress. DC current from welding will earth back through the magnet and cause irreparable damage to the machine.

Q: What extension cable length is safe to use with the E4000 Perm on a 120V supply?
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 a loss of magnetic traction and reduced motor power.