How to Incorporate Countersunk Magnets into Jigs and Fixtures
Countersunk magnets for jigs and fixtures offer a clean, low-profile mounting option. They allow you to fasten magnets securely with a screw while keeping the magnet surface flush with the surrounding material.
What Are Countersunk Magnets?
Countersunk magnets are ring or block-shaped magnets with a beveled hole in the center designed to accept a flat-head screw. This allows the magnet to sit flush against a surface, making it easy to fasten them to wood, aluminum, plastic, or other non-ferrous materials. Countersunk magnets offer strong magnetic force, easy installation, versatility, and durability, making them ideal for engineers, machinists, and shop-floor teams looking to create modular, reusable, and reliable tooling.
When paired with a steel surface (or another magnet), these fastened magnets can serve as:
- Alignment stops or guide points
- Mounting points for clamps or tools
- Detachable panels or fixture components
- Modular positioning elements in flexible tooling setups
Benefits of Countersunk Magnets in Jigs and Fixtures
Precision Positioning
Magnets provide consistent, repeatable holding force without play or drift. In jigs or fixtures, this ensures parts or workpieces return to the exact same location. This would be ideal in high-tolerance operations like CNC machining or inspection setups.
Easy Integration
Because they can be screwed into wood, MDF, plastic, or aluminum framing, countersunk magnets are easy to retrofit into existing tooling. No welding, gluing, or complex hardware required.
Time-Saving Setup
Magnetic mounts make it easy to “click” fixture components into place. Whether you’re reconfiguring a clamping setup or changing out inspection tools, magnets reduce setup time and eliminate the need to realign each time.
Clean, Flush Mounting
The countersunk hole allows for a flat-head screw to sit below the magnet’s surface. That means no snagging, no protrusions, and no interference with your parts or tool paths.
Recommended Countersunk Magnets for Fixtures
Choosing the right magnet depends on your fixture’s size, material, and required hold strength. Below are several Apex-approved countersunk magnets that balance precision, holding force, and ease of integration in jig and fixture design.
½" x ½" x ¼" Countersunk Block Magnet – N48, 9.60 lb Pull Force
Compact and strong, this magnet is perfect for light-duty fixture alignment, removable template panels, or workpiece stops in tight spaces. The block shape sits flush in router-cut grooves or CNC-milled pockets, providing reliable positioning without mechanical clamps.
2" x ½" x ¼" Countersunk Block Magnet – N48, 17.2 lb Pull Force
This is a heavy-duty option for larger fixture plates, tool-free faceplates, or high-force holding where vibration or side load is a concern. Use this magnet when you need maximum strength in a slim footprint.
Mounting Magnets with Countersink – N40, Holds 17 lbs
Designed specifically for mounting applications, these versatile magnets feature a countersink that accepts a #8 screw for easy flush installation. Ideal for wall-mounted jigs, removable backstops, or modular tool holders where consistent alignment is key.
¾" x ⅛" Countersunk Ring Magnet – N48, 8.7 lb Pull Force
This low-profile ring magnet offers directional polarity options (north or south pole facing) and is well-suited for precision assemblies or sensors embedded in jigs. The through-thickness magnetization makes it ideal for applications where polarity matters, such as contactless switch setups or electronic fixture integration.
Whether you're building lean manufacturing setups, inspection rigs, or quick-change jigs, these magnets offer reliable performance and mounting flexibility.
Explore Apex’s full selection of countersunk magnets and find the size and strength that match your build. Need help determining the right magnet for your fixture? Our B2B support team can assist with sizing, strength specs, or coating recommendations based on your working materials.
Check out our helpful Countersunk Installation Guide to get the most out of your magnets. Want even more uses for countersunk magnets? We’ve got a list of handy household uses right here.
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Magnets can be dangerous. Neodymium magnets, especially, must be handled with care to avoid personal injury and damage to the magnets. Fingers and other body parts can get severely pinched between two attracting magnets. Bones can be broken by larger magnets. Visit our Magnet Safety page to learn more.