Magnets for inspection hatches
Mount inspection hatches magnetically with countersunk magnets on the hatch and a steel strip or counter magnet in the frame, or with pot magnets on a steel frame. Allow 2 to 4 magnets per hatch and a safety cable for overhead hatches.
Short answer: you mount an inspection hatch or service panel magnetically with magnets on the hatch and a steel strip, plate or counter magnet in the frame. On a steel frame, pot magnets with a countersunk hole are sufficient; in wood or plastic use countersunk magnets with a counter magnet. Allow 2 to 4 magnets per hatch. Secure overhead (ceiling) hatches additionally with a safety cable.
Which magnets for which hatch?
| Hatch | Advice |
|---|---|
| Small hatch in a cabinet or wall (up to 40 x 40 cm) | 2 countersunk magnets Ø15 – Ø20 mm + steel plates or counter magnets |
| Service panel in a machine (steel frame) | 4 countersunk pot magnets Ø16 – Ø25 mm; see magnets for machine building |
| Painted hatch or panel | rubber pot magnets or a rubber protective pad |
| Light plastic cover plate | self-adhesive magnets with a steel counter plate |
| Ceiling hatch | pot magnets loaded perpendicularly, plus a safety cable |
Design tips
- Perpendicular is stronger: a hatch that sits in a rebate is pulled in perpendicularly by the magnets and rests on the edge. That is much stronger than a panel hanging on a vertical wall.
- Grip: give the hatch a handle or a recess to pull it off, otherwise it is hard to remove.
- North and south: for magnet against magnet you need a north pole and a south pole version. We supply these separately for a number of countersunk magnets.
- Not too strong: a hatch that slams shut too hard damages the edge. Test with 2 magnets before fitting more.
Frequently asked questions
How much holding force does an inspection hatch need?
For a wall hatch, 2 – 5 kg per magnet is usually enough; for a ceiling hatch, allow 3 times the weight of the hatch, plus a safeguard. See how many magnets do I need?
Does it work through plasterboard or a wooden frame?
Yes, with two magnets (one on each side) or a magnet with a steel plate. The force decreases with thickness; see do magnets work through wood?
