Work table dimensions
Dimensions of the base plate installed in the machine.
The base plate is the surface on which the workpiece is placed during operation. Accordingly, the larger this surface, the better this model is suitable for working with large parts (especially since the dimensions of the vise for the workpiece installed in many models depend on the size of the plate). However, usually manufacturers choose a base plate, focus on the overall level of the unit and approximately assuming the largest size of the workpiece with which it will be used. And magnetic machines are not equipped with a base plate at all (for more details, see "Type").
Note that for base plates, dimensions are usually indicated by the greatest length and width, and regardless of the shape. This means that, for example, a plate measuring 300x300 mm can be not only square, but also round.
Max. drilling diameter in steel
The largest diameter of holes that can be drilled in metal with this machine. At the same time, the characteristics give an indicator for a certain “average” (in terms of hardness, density, etc. metal), while in fact the characteristics of the material may be different; this must be taken into account when choosing. Nevertheless, the maximum drilling diameter is a fairly descriptive parameter that describes well the capabilities of the machine and the limitations on its use.
Note that regardless of the material, the larger the hole diameter, the higher the resistance that must be overcome during drilling, and the greater the engine power should be (see above). This means that powerful and heavy machines are required to efficiently drill large holes. So, when choosing, it doesn’t always make sense to chase after a “large-caliber” model — it can turn out to be unreasonably expensive, bulky and heavy.
It is also worth considering that the size of the cartridge (see above) is often larger than the maximum drilling diameter; however, it is still impossible to exceed the manufacturer's recommendations — in order to avoid overloading the tool.