Introduction: Why Proper Care Matters

ProKast products, including our precast magnets, brackets, magnetic steel chamfers and magnetic accessories, are engineered to withstand the demanding conditions of Australian precast yards. However, they are precision tools.

To ensure maximum holding force, long-term reusability, and to keep your warranty valid, proper daily care and maintenance are essential. Concrete slurry buildup and improper handling are the leading causes of premature failure.

1. Daily / After-Use Cleaning Instructions

The magnetic surface must make direct, flush contact with the steel casting bed to achieve its full holding force. Even a small amount of dried concrete can reduce grip.

For Precast Concrete Magnets:

  1. Remove Wet Slurry: Immediately after the pour, wipe away any wet concrete splashes from the magnet casing and button mechanism using a damp cloth or sponge.
  2. Clean the Base: Once removed from the casting bed, inspect the bottom magnetic face. Use a wire brush or scraper to remove any dried concrete or debris.
  3. Air Blow: If available, use compressed air to blow out dust and grit from around the push-button mechanism to prevent jamming.
  4. Oil the Surface: Lightly coat the bottom magnetic face and the steel casing with form release oil or a rust-preventative spray to prevent corrosion.

For Magnetic Steel Chamfers:

  1. Wipe Down: After stripping the chamfer from the panel, wipe the entire length with a clean rag to remove wet concrete.
  2. Scrape the Edges: Use a plastic or soft metal scraper to gently remove any hardened concrete from the beveled edges.
  3. Oil the Magnets: Apply a light coat of form oil to the embedded magnets and the steel body to prevent rust.


For Brackets and Magnetic Accessories:

  1. Wipe Down: After use, wipe the bracket or accessory with a clean rag to remove wet concrete and slurry.
  2. Scrape and Clean: Use a plastic or soft metal scraper to remove any hardened concrete from contact surfaces, slots and edges.
  3. Oil the Surfaces: Apply a light coat of form oil or rust-preventative spray to all steel surfaces to prevent corrosion.


2. Best Practices for Use in Precast Yards

  • Ensure a Clean Bed: Before placing magnets, brackets, chamfers or accessories, sweep and scrape the steel casting bed. Debris under the product will reduce its hold and can damage contact surfaces.
  • Use the Correct Release Tool: Use the Correct Release Tool: Always use the designated ProKast release lever to disengage magnets. Lever it upwards smoothly.
  • Position Carefully: Neodymium magnets are extremely powerful. Do not drop them forcefully onto the steel bed; place them gently to avoid cracking the internal magnetic core. Handle all products carefully to avoid bending, denting or damaging edges and slots.

3. What to Avoid (To Prevent Damage)

 Critical Warnings

  • Never use a hammer: Do not strike magnets, brackets, chamfers or accessories with a hammer or mallet to engage, release or adjust them. This can damage internal magnets, deform brackets or void your warranty.
  • Never weld near the magnets: Never weld near the magnets: High heat from welding will permanently destroy the magnetic field of neodymium magnets. Keep welding operations away from all ProKast tools.
  • Do not let concrete cure on the tools: Hardened concrete buildup around button mechanisms, slots, edges or contact surfaces will cause jamming or reduced performance.

4. Storage Recommendations

When not in use, proper storage extends the life of your ProKast tools:

  • Store Indoors: Keep all products in a dry, covered area protected from rain and extreme weather to prevent rust.
  • Keep Them Oiled: Ensure all steel surfaces and magnetic faces have a light coating of protective oil before long-term storage.
  • Store in the Disengaged Position: Always store the magnets with the button in the UP (disengaged) position.
  • Use Protective Spacers: If stacking magnets, place a piece of timber or thick cardboard between them to prevent them from snapping together, which can cause injury or damage.

5. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue: The magnet isn’t holding tightly to the bed.

  • Check: Is there dried concrete or debris on the bottom of the magnet or on the casting bed?
  • Solution: Thoroughly clean both surfaces with a wire brush and scraper.

Issue: The push-button is stuck and won’t press down.

  • Check: Is there concrete slurry jammed inside the casing?
  • Solution: Use compressed air or a stiff brush to clean around the button. Do not force it with a hammer.

Issue: The chamfer is leaving a rough edge on the concrete.

  • Check: Is the chamfer bent, or is there hardened concrete stuck to the beveled face?
  • Solution: Clean the chamfer face thoroughly. If the steel is physically dented or bent from misuse, it may need to be replaced.  

6. When to Contact Us for Service or Repair

If you have followed this guide but your ProKast product is still not performing as expected, or if any internal mechanism has broken, please stop using it immediately.

Review our Returns & Warranty Policy to see if your issue is covered. If you need replacement parts or technical advice, our team is ready to help.