Screwdrivers are vital additions to any tradie’s tool kit, helping with everything from furniture construction to electrical repairs. 

There are two major problems involved in screwdriver use: cam-out (when the screwdriver slips out of the fastener head) and lost screws. Thankfully, there’s an all-in-one solution for these issues—magnetic screwdrivers.

This article will discuss what magnetic screwdrivers are, why you might use them, and the benefits they offer across multiple industries.

What is a magnetic screwdriver?

Magnetic screwdrivers are just like regular screwdrivers, except they feature a magnetic steel shaft and tip. This magnetisation allows the user to place a fastener onto the screwdriver’s tip before inserting it into the screw hole.

Many tradespeople also use magnetic screwdrivers to retrieve screws from a pile or bin, which can be easier than using fingers.

Keep in mind that magnetic screwdrivers will only work with steel screws. Screws made from other materials, like aluminium and copper, will not adhere to a magnetic screwdriver because they cannot be magnetised.

You can find magnetic versions of nearly all screwdriver varieties, including:

• Phillips-head
• Flathead
• Hex
• Torx/star
• Robertson/square
• Pozidriv

This means that whichever industry you’re in, and whichever screwdriver types your workers prefer, it will be easy to find matching magnetic screwdriver sets.

Industry applications and benefits of magnetic screwdrivers

Magnetic screwdrivers have benefits across industries.For example, electricians and mechanics often work in tight, awkward, and hard-to-reach spaces. Magnetic screwdrivers make it easier for technicians to reach these areas and line up the screw with the hole.

Similarly, it’s easier for workers to retrieve screws with a narrow magnetic screwdriver shaft than it is to use their hands.

However, we recommend using caution when using a magnetic screwdriver around delicate electronic parts. Magnetic fields can damage some sensitive electronic components.

As we touched on above, magnetic screwdrivers also reduce the risk of screws, nuts, and bolts falling. This benefit is especially valuable to mechanics, where fallen screws can easily damage engine components, requiring a full tear-down to resolve the problem and remove the screw.

For people who struggle to drive fasteners accurately, magnetic screwdrivers are a blessing. They make it much easier to keep the fastener in-place, ensuring an even, secure fit.

What to look out for when buying magnetic screwdrivers

If you’re shopping for magnetic screwdrivers for your business, here are a few points to consider:

• Shaft length: longer screwdriver shafts can access hard-to-reach spaces, while shorter shafts can fit into tight areas. We recommend choosing a set with a range of lengths.
• Handle material and design: wide-handle grips allow for more force, which is useful for completing simple construction jobs quickly. Narrower handles may be a better choice for precision projects.

Conclusion

To sum up, using a magnetic screwdriver is a smart choice for tradespeople working in tight spaces or if you’re struggling with slippage. Workers will have an easier time lining up screws and a reduced risk of dropping or losing them.

We strongly recommend investing in a tool kit that includes magnetic screwdrivers to increase productivity within your trade business! See RS for a full range of screwdriver sets.