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It is well known that systematically arranged tools ease the
job of any worker. In the case of skilled manual workers, such as carpenters,
electricians, masons, and plumbers, quick management of large and tiny
accessories like nails, screws, bolts, and nuts is a next to impossible task. A
magnetic parts tray is a handy container used to store these items during work.
Since most fasteners are metallic, the magnetic tray retains them even if the
tray is tipped over or tilted, which would not be the case if a normal tray
were to be used. While this tray has become mandatory in most workshops and
factories, it is also a useful storage accessory to have at home. Placing tiny
metal items in the tray will ensure that these items are not left lying on the
floor subject to being stepped on or kicked off into inaccessible areas. The
tray is especially useful when dismantling a piece of machinery, in which case
every screw, nut, and bolt is important to reassemble the device. It is a
reliable accessory for to the worker, enabling him to concentrate on the task
at hand, without having to worry about searching for the small items.
Features and working of a magnetic parts tray
Magnetic parts trays come in a variety of
designs and sizes, with the most common shapes being circular or
rectangular. The edges are usually rounded to prevent hurting the hands
of the tray handler. For enhanced durability, the trays are most often
made of heavy gauge stainless steel.
A small sized tray would have a width of
around 4 to 6 inches with a depth of approximately 1-1/8 inches. A
round tray of this size would have an inbuilt magnet with a diameter
measuring approximately 3-1/4 inches. A moderate rectangular tray would
have dimensions of approximately 6 inches x 14 inches. A large magnetic
parts tray would weigh around 2 pounds. Occasionally, the rectangular
trays have around two to three magnets at the base, enabling the tray
to be affixed firmly to any metal surfaces, such as the body of an
automobile or a tool box. Powerful dual magnets allow the tray to
remain functional when placed sideways and even upside down. The
magnets are usually vinyl coated to prevent them slipping or sliding
over the surface on which they are kept, and unduly scratching the
surface. The same magnets perform the dual functionality of holding the
tray against a surface as well as providing the attractive force needed
to hold the contents of the tray.
Some trays have a handle on top, making the
loaded tray portable. Thus the tools can be carried from one place to
another and even towards an outdoor worksite. If the number of items in
the tray is large, then the tray may become heavy and unwieldy. For
this reason, some magnetic trays are provided with long lasting,
shielded, ball-bearing castors, so the tray can be rolled along. The
wheels are generally made of a scratch proof material and are also oil
resistant.
For larger applications, an approximately
four piece magnetic tool tray can be used. This is a multi-Level
contraption, resembling a cabinet of drawers. Strong rubberized castors
add to the portability of the storage device. The individual trays of
the set are usually made of durable powder coated steel, and each tray
being embellished with multiple magnets.
What to look for in a magnetic parts tray
Since a wide array of metal components is
generally stored in a magnetic parts tray, it would make sense to have
a tray with a bright stainless steel finish. This ensures that there is
minimal scratching to the tray surface and also ease of cleaning after
use. A permanent magnet ensures long lasting performance. Additionally,
a rubber scratch guard would prevent marring of the surface on which
the tray is placed. Depending on the user’s intended application and
the size of the most used tools, the shape and the dimensions of the
magnetic parts tray can be accordingly chosen. While a round tray is
suitable for smaller items such as nuts and bolts, the rectangular tray
is suitable for longer nails and even small Pliers and spanners.
Some
reputed manufacturers of magnetic parts trays include Eclipse, Grip,
and Performance.
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