Magnetic Lamp and Tool Holder - Using Microwave Salvage Parts

There never seems to be enough light in the shop, and when working with a band saw or drill it can be very important to clearly see what you are doing.  I had an old broken lamp hanging around thought it would be good to adapt it to a magnetic base, that would let me stick the light on my tools and shine the light just where I need it.  Here is how:

Step 1: Step 1 - Tools and Materials

• Sheet metal ( ferrous, you want it to be magnetic ) – mine came from the case of a microwave magnet.  Microwaves are often a source of parts, search the web, instructables, or as a sample see this:  Taking Apart A Microwave by dog digger  http://www.instructables.com/id/Taking-Apart-A-Microwave/
• Donuts magnets from a microwave oven
• ¼ inch hardboard or plywood ( mine was salvaged from old flooring )
• Epoxy
• Remains of a lamp or other tool to mount
• Drill
• Saw to cut the sheet metal and hardboard

Comments

[texasclodhopper]

I would be concerned about adding more magnetic fields around that analog meter movement, but if it works for you and there isn't any change in calibration I guess it's OK ...

[russ_hensel]

You are right, the VOM is more of a prop than a useful application, it will probably go onto a less sensitive tool in the shop.

[hjjusa]

I was looking for a lamp to mount on the side of my computer. LOL

[profpat]

Very good idea! now i know what to do with the broken desk lamps in my shops, got lots of magnetron lying around my shop that i salvage from some microwave i scrapped.
we could also use magnets for broken tv or cassette radio speakers..
thanks for sharing!