Magnetic Stands

About Magnetic Stands

Magnetic stands are precision-engineered tools designed to securely hold dial test indicators, dial gauges, and other measuring instruments in place during metalworking, machining, and engineering operations. These versatile positioning devices feature a powerful magnetic base that attaches firmly to ferrous metal surfaces such as machine tables, surface plates, inspection tables, and workpieces, allowing for hands-free operation and consistent, repeatable measurements. The magnetic attachment provides stable support whilst enabling quick repositioning as needed throughout inspection and quality control processes.

Most magnetic stands incorporate flexible or articulated arms with multiple adjustment points, allowing users to position measuring instruments at virtually any angle or orientation. Fine adjustment mechanisms enable precise positioning down to fractions of a millimetre, essential for accurate dimensional inspection, runout checking, and comparative measurement tasks. Whether you're checking shaft concentricity on a lathe, verifying component flatness on a surface plate, or measuring deviations during CNC machining operations, a quality magnetic stand provides the stable, adjustable support necessary for reliable measurement results.

Our range includes models from trusted brands like Sealey and Draper, offering everything from compact, lightweight stands for general workshop use to heavy-duty models designed for demanding production environments. Options include basic fixed-arm designs, flexible gooseneck styles, and sophisticated fine-adjustment stands with calibrated positioning controls, catering to precision engineering applications across automotive, aerospace, tool and die making, and general fabrication workshops.

Jargon Buster

• Magnetic Base: The heavy foundation of the stand containing powerful permanent magnets (typically neodymium or ferrite) that can be switched on or off using a lever mechanism. When activated, the base creates a strong magnetic field securing the stand to ferrous metal surfaces with holding forces typically ranging from 60kg to over 150kg depending on the model.
• Fine Adjustment Mechanism: A precision screw or micrometer-style adjustment system that allows incremental positioning of the indicator holder in small, controlled movements. This feature enables exact positioning of the measuring instrument without disturbing the magnetic base attachment, essential for setting up comparative measurements and zeroing dial indicators.
• Articulated Arm: The adjustable support arm connecting the magnetic base to the instrument holder, featuring multiple pivot points, swivel joints, and locking mechanisms. These joints allow positioning in three-dimensional space whilst maintaining rigidity once tightened, preventing measurement drift during inspection tasks.
• Indicator Holder: The mounting point at the end of the arm, typically featuring a cylindrical bore (commonly 8mm diameter) designed to accept the stem of dial test indicators, plunger-type gauges, and other measuring instruments. Quality holders incorporate secure clamping mechanisms to prevent instrument movement during use.
• On/Off Switching: The lever or button mechanism that activates and deactivates the magnetic field in the base. When switched off, the stand can be easily repositioned or removed; when switched on, full magnetic holding force is applied instantly without requiring manual pressure or adjustment.
• Flexible Arm: A bendable, cable-reinforced arm (gooseneck style) that can be manually shaped into position and holds that configuration through internal friction. Flexible arms offer infinite positioning angles but generally provide less rigidity than articulated designs, making them better suited to lighter-duty measurement applications.

Who Uses Magnetic Stands?

Magnetic stands are essential equipment for a wide range of engineering and metalworking professionals:

• Precision Engineers and Machinists: For quality control inspection, setup verification, and in-process measurement on lathes, milling machines, and grinding equipment
• Tool and Die Makers: For checking critical dimensions, angles, and surface relationships during mould and die manufacturing and repair
• CNC Machine Operators: For setup procedures, first-off inspection, and ongoing process verification to ensure machined components meet drawing specifications
• Quality Control Inspectors: For comparative measurement, gauge verification, and detailed dimensional inspection in inspection departments and quality laboratories
• Automotive Technicians: For checking runout on brake discs, flywheel faces, and other rotating components requiring concentricity verification
• Fabricators and Welders: For verifying alignment, checking flatness, and measuring distortion before, during, and after welding operations
• Maintenance Fitters: For diagnosing machinery problems, checking shaft alignment, and measuring bearing clearances during equipment servicing
• Apprentices and Engineering Students: As fundamental measurement tools for learning precision inspection techniques and quality control procedures
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home workshop users undertaking lathe work, precision metalworking projects, or restoration work requiring accurate measurement

How to Choose the Right Magnetic Stands

Selecting the appropriate magnetic stand depends on several key factors related to your specific measurement requirements:

Magnetic Holding Force: Consider the size and weight of the measuring instruments you'll be using, along with the stability required for your application. Light-duty stands with 60-80kg holding force suit basic workshop measurement tasks with standard dial indicators, whilst heavy-duty models offering 100-150kg+ holding force are necessary for larger instruments, applications involving vibration (such as measurements taken on running machinery), or when maximum stability is critical for precision work.

Arm Type and Adjustability: Articulated arms with multiple lockable joints provide superior rigidity and are preferable for precision measurement where any movement could affect readings. Flexible gooseneck arms offer quick, infinite positioning but with slightly less rigidity, making them ideal for less critical measurements or frequent repositioning. Fine adjustment mechanisms are essential for comparative measurement and precise setup work, allowing controlled micro-adjustments without disturbing the magnetic attachment.

Reach and Height: Evaluate the working envelope you need to cover. Standard stands typically offer reaches of 200-350mm from the magnetic base, suitable for most benchtop and machine table applications. Consider the maximum height and horizontal reach required to position indicators where needed on your typical workpieces and machinery.

Base Size and Stability: Larger magnetic bases provide greater stability and higher holding forces but are heavier and less portable. Compact bases suit restricted spaces and portable measurement tasks, whilst larger bases are preferable for permanent or semi-permanent inspection stations where maximum rigidity is paramount.

Build Quality and Brand: Professional-grade stands from established brands like Sealey and Draper offer superior magnetic strength, smoother adjustment mechanisms, and longer service life compared to economy alternatives. Quality stands feature precision-machined components, secure locking mechanisms, and hardened contact surfaces that resist wear. For professional workshop use where measurement accuracy affects product quality and profitability, investing in reliable branded equipment provides better long-term value.

Indicator Mounting: Verify that the indicator holder diameter matches your existing measuring instruments (8mm is standard for most dial indicators). Some stands offer multiple holder sizes or quick-change systems for different instrument types.

Popular Accessories

• Dial Test Indicators (DTIs): The primary measuring instruments used with magnetic stands, featuring precision mechanical movements that amplify small dimensional variations for easy reading. Available in various ranges and resolutions to suit different measurement requirements.
• Dial Gauges: Plunger-type indicators used for measuring linear dimensions, depths, and deviations. Essential companions to magnetic stands for comprehensive measurement capabilities across diverse workshop applications.
• Adapter Sleeves: Allow mounting of indicators with different stem diameters, providing flexibility to use various measuring instruments with a single stand.
• V-Blocks and Angle Plates: Provide stable reference surfaces for positioning cylindrical or angled workpieces during measurement, working in conjunction with magnetic stands for complex inspection setups.
• Surface Plates: Precision flat reference surfaces, typically cast iron or granite, that provide the stable, accurate datum necessary for comparative measurement and inspection work using magnetic stands.
• Magnetic Base Covers: Protective covers that prevent damage to the magnetic base surface and the surfaces it contacts, whilst also keeping debris out of the switching mechanism.

Safety Information

Whilst magnetic stands are generally safe tools, certain precautions ensure proper use and prevent accidents:

Secure Attachment: Always verify that the magnetic base is fully activated and firmly attached before releasing your grip. Inadequately secured stands can fall unexpectedly, potentially damaging expensive measuring instruments or causing injury. Ensure the mounting surface is clean, flat, and free from oil, swarf, or debris that might reduce magnetic holding force.

Weight Limits: Do not exceed the manufacturer's specified capacity for the stand. Overloading can cause instability, measurement errors, or sudden failure of holding force. When using particularly heavy or long instruments, position the arm to minimise overhang and leverage forces on the magnetic base.

Magnetic Field Awareness: Keep magnetic stands away from sensitive electronic equipment, data storage devices, and precision instruments that might be affected by strong magnetic fields. Be aware that powerful magnetic bases can attract ferrous metal objects, potentially causing pinch injuries or equipment damage.

Proper Deactivation: Always switch off the magnetic base before attempting to remove the stand from its mounting surface. Forcing or levering against active magnetic force can damage both the stand and the mounting surface, and may cause sudden release leading to dropped equipment.

Workplace Organisation: Store magnetic stands away from cutting tools, abrasive wheels, and other equipment that could damage the precision surfaces and adjustment mechanisms. Keep stands clean and lightly lubricated according to manufacturer guidance to ensure smooth operation and long service life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between flexible and articulated arm magnetic stands?

Flexible arms (gooseneck style) can be bent into any position manually and hold that shape through internal friction, offering quick, infinite positioning but with less rigidity. Articulated arms feature distinct pivot joints with individual locking mechanisms, providing superior stability and rigidity once locked, making them preferable for precision measurement work. Flexible arms suit applications requiring frequent repositioning and where slightly lower rigidity is acceptable, whilst articulated designs are better for critical measurements where any movement could compromise accuracy.

How do I know if a magnetic stand will work on my machine or workbench?

Magnetic stands require ferrous (magnetic) metal surfaces to function – typically cast iron, steel, or iron. They will not attach to aluminium, brass, stainless steel (most grades), or non-metallic surfaces. Test with a simple magnet if unsure. The surface should be reasonably flat and clean for maximum holding force. Most machine tables, surface plates, and steel workbenches provide suitable mounting surfaces, but fabricated aluminium tables or composite work surfaces are incompatible.

What does fine adjustment mean and do I need it?

Fine adjustment refers to a precision screw mechanism that allows controlled, incremental positioning of the indicator holder without disturbing the magnetic base attachment. This feature is essential for comparative measurement (where you zero the indicator on a master gauge then measure parts against it), precise setup work, and applications requiring exact positioning. If you're doing precision engineering, quality control, or machining work requiring high accuracy, fine adjustment is invaluable. For basic measurement tasks, a standard stand without fine adjustment may suffice.

Can magnetic stands be used on running machinery?

Whilst magnetically possible, using stands on running machinery requires extreme caution and should only be done by experienced personnel with appropriate risk assessments in place. Vibration from running equipment can gradually weaken magnetic hold, and rotating components present serious entanglement hazards. For safety-critical applications, many workshops prohibit this practice entirely. If measurement on running machinery is necessary, use only heavy-duty stands with maximum holding force, ensure the magnetic base is on a non-rotating part well clear of moving components, and maintain constant supervision throughout the measurement period. Always follow your workplace safety procedures and HSE guidance for machinery measurement operations.

How much holding force do I need?

For standard workshop measurement with typical dial indicators and test indicators, stands with 60-80kg holding force are generally adequate. Applications involving larger or heavier instruments, measurement in areas subject to vibration, or critical precision work where maximum stability is essential warrant heavy-duty models with 100-150kg+ holding force. Consider that factors like surface finish, cleanliness, and base size affect actual holding performance, so choosing a stand with capacity well above your minimum requirement provides a safety margin for reliable operation across varying conditions.