Harry in Ky
Elite Member
Does anyone use or have any experience with a magnetic ground clamp? I see a number of them listed online, some are switched, some not. I wondered if anyone has tried one, and if so, what do you think of them?
Magnetic ground clamps
- Thread starter Harry in Ky
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SpringHollow
Elite Member
I have used one with a switch that normally works well on larger projects. Under certain conditions, it is possible to knock it off.
Ken
Ken
CNC Dan
Veteran Member
I have a smaller one that is swiched.
I use it for things that I can't get a grip in with a regular work clamp.
Works ok. Only trouble I've had is with some arc blow when TIGing some small sheet metal parts.
My favorite work clamp is a pair of vise grip pliers. I welded a bolt to the side to attach the cable.
They can grip from 2.5" pipe to sheet metal. Can't find the pair I have at home or I'd post a pic.
OK. Found them. Model:12LC
View attachment 309834
I use it for things that I can't get a grip in with a regular work clamp.
Works ok. Only trouble I've had is with some arc blow when TIGing some small sheet metal parts.
My favorite work clamp is a pair of vise grip pliers. I welded a bolt to the side to attach the cable.
They can grip from 2.5" pipe to sheet metal. Can't find the pair I have at home or I'd post a pic.
OK. Found them. Model:12LC
View attachment 309834
Willl
Elite Member
I bought and tried one like this. Don't waste your money.
rankrank1
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I bought and tried one like this. Don't waste your money.
Agreed. I bought one of those things too and even bolted it to my ground clamp which was a mistake. It was very hard to remove after only one use - durned stud just wanted to spin and the theads had melted some making the nut impossible to get off. Finally cut it off. Total waste of money.
OP
Harry in Ky
Elite Member
Yes, I've seen this type, and wondered if the small contact surface that conducts the load would be a problem - poor conductivity/heat build up? Can't tell from the photos of the switched type because the photos don't show the business end.
Ed of all trades
Elite Member
Have used them in the past, the boss had it set up that way and it worked well. just won't work on aluminum. I am setting up a welder soon and just might use one. Thanks.
wroughtn_harv
Super Member
What I have found is they are not worth a flip for field work. The big issue is the spring involved, heat, and failing sooner than later. It's one of those ideas that sound great but in reality isn't.
SpringHollow
Elite Member
The ones with a switch like a mag mount for an indicator gave a large surface area and do not have the problems the cheap ones have. But they can affect your arc.
Ken
Ken
yomax4
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I've sold a bunch of the switched ones but you need the 600 amp one to get a good magnet. The problen is the price. $60.00. I use one when I have to but only then. They work good on pipe but you have to keep the arc away from the magnetics., They work best for holding up a Christmas Wreath on my steel siding.
