Abstract: A device comprising a plate (1) for holding workpieces (11) when handled on a machine tool, and a magnetic field excitation unit which is made in the form of at least one magnetic core (3) mounted on a base (2). A bottom portion (4) of each of the cores (3) is encompassed by a direct-current coil winding (6) and is thickened so as to form, together with the top portions (5), a step for the plate (1) to rest upon. The top portion (5) is accommodated in the interior of the plate (1) and is magnetically insulated therefrom with the aid of elements (7) made of a nonmagnetic material. The area of contact of the plate (1) with the core (3) does not exceed the cross-sectional area of the plate (1) confined within the perimeter of the step of the core (3), while a distance (.tau.) between the axes of the cores (3) is determined by the following relationship: ##EQU1## where B is the magnetic induction corresponding to the magnetic saturation of the material of the plate (1);h is the thickness of the plate (1);P.sub.