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Magnetic-Locks

Magnetic Locks: Exploring Their Functionality and Importance in Businesses

In the ever-changing world of security, magnetic locks have been established as one of the reliable, efficient, and highly effective means of securing commercial properties. Magnetic locks are known for their robust locking capabilities, making them a sound choice for businesses that want to upgrade their security apparatus.

Magnetic locks, or ‘mag locks’ as they are popularly known, work on a simple principle based on magnetism. When energized, these locks generate a magnetic field that rigidly holds the door in place, adding extra security. Traditional locks do not have keyholes, and thus these ‘mag locks’ are less susceptible to picking or duplication attacks.

In an age where security is of utmost importance, knowing how magnetic locks work and why they are important will help businesses in making the right decisions concerning their security systems. The rising incidence of commercial property theft and vandalism makes it important for businesses to stay a step ahead in their security strategies. This post tries to explain in greater detail magnetic locks, how they work, the benefits, and why it is something of great importance to any business enterprise.

Table of Contents

What are Magnetic Locks?

Locking devices called magnetic or electromagnetic locks consist of an electromagnet and an armature plate. The electromagnet part of the lock is installed in the door frame, whereas the armature plate is fixed on the door. When a power supply is fed to the lock, and when the door closes, a current flows through the electromagnet attracting the armature plate. With this attraction, or “magnetic force”, the door remains locked and it does not permit access by unwanted people.

A magnetic lock works quite simply in the manner described because simultaneously with electric current feeding energy to it, an electromagnet magnetises. The field can be quite strong because of magnetism; this forces the armature plate into proximity with the electromagnet. When there is no longer any current, this magnetic field disappears, and due to the effect of the spring, it thrusts the armature plate back inside the box door, and when it reaches home, the hook disengages from the spigot.

A keyless magnetic lock does not need a key for the operation. It could be through a mechanical system that is manual, such as a push button, or automatic, such as a card reader or remote control.

Types of Magnetic Locks

There are various kinds of magnetic locks available in the market, which have different features and benefits.

Fail-Safe Magnetic Locks

Fail-Safe Magnetic Locks are the most common mag locks. They are supposed to unlock in case of power supply interruption; therefore, they are considered safer during emergency situations like fire or loss of power supply. They are best used in high-traffic places where free exit is necessary.

Fail-Secure Magnetic Locks

On the other hand, Fail-Secure Magnetic Locks will not open when the power supply is cut off. Such a lock is very appropriate for high-security areas since it guarantees that the door remains locked, thereby keeping unwanted access.

Delayed Egress Magnetic Locks

Delayed Egress Magnetic Locks delay the opening of the door for a set time (usually 15 seconds) after an unlock command has been given. This can serve as a deterrent to would-be thieves and increase security overall.

Biometric Magnetic Locks

Biometric magnetic locks are basically the most advanced locks nowadays because they employ biometric systems which include fingerprint or retina scanning. This lock offers very strong, personalized control of access and works well for commercial establishments for specific sensitive areas in a business premises.

There exist different types of magnetic locks with some advantages and these are suitable to be used in unique scenarios. They are best utilized according to business security needs.

How Magnetic Locks Work

This works based on the fundamental principles of electromagnetism. Generally, a magnetic lock consists of two parts: an armature plate and an electromagnet. The electromagnet is mounted on the door frame and the armature plate is attached to a fixed point. As soon as a current flows in the electromagnet, it will be magnetized and generate a very strong magnetic field. This magnetic field is attracted to the armature plate, hence pulling it into the electromagnet and locking the door.

The more current that flows into a magnetic lock, the stronger the lock will be. The stronger the magnetic field is, the stronger the lock. Most magnetic locks are low-voltage DC-powered, with most being either 12 or 24 volts. Even at this low power input, magnetic locks can exert a massive holding force. The holding forces are usually in the range of 300 pounds to as much as 1200 pounds or more. They are thus one of the strongest security measures.

The other critical aspect in working a magnetic lock is the control system. Magnetic locks don’t make use of keys; hence, they are normally controlled by a control system like card readers, keypads, remote control, and even through a mobile application. When the control system signals the lock to open, power is cut from the electromagnet. As it runs out of power, it demagnetizes, and its magnetic field disappears. It becomes easy for the spring that pulls it to return it back and let go, allowing the door to be unlocked.

In this process, all steps are almost instantaneous, meaning locking or unlocking can take place quite rapidly. Of course, it must be mentioned that magnetic locks are near-pick-proof given their inherent and operational design, thus offering greater security against the conventional lock-picking method.

Advantages of Magnetic Locks

Magnetic locks have the following key advantages that make them a top choice in the commercial security system. Here are some of the noted benefits

  1. High Security: Magnetic locks offer high-level security. They are hard to be picked, and they are an excellent choice for highly secure areas.
  2. Durability: Magnetic locks are resistant to wear and tear, due to fewer moving parts, and are less likely to break mechanically.
  3. Ease of Use: Magnetic locks utilize features like keyless entry and remote access to make the process user-friendly.
  4. Fast Operation: Locking and unlocking seem to be instantaneous, thus very effective.
  5. Integration with Security Systems:  Magnetic locks can be easily integrated into CCTV and alarm systems to provide an all-rounded security solution.
  6. Fail-Safe Option: During a power failure or emergency, fail-safe magnetic locks automatically open to allow for safe exit.
Magnetic Locks Vs. Conventional Locks
  • Security: Ordinary locks can easily be picked and bumped, whereas the magnetic lock cannot be picked, almost.
  • Mechanical Failure: Traditional locks contain many moving parts and, thus, are more prone to mechanical failure. On the other hand, magnetic locks have fewer moving components and, therefore, are more reliable and durable.
  • Access Control: Traditional locks only require a physical key to unlock, which is easily lost or duplicated. Magnetic locks, however, can be accessed through card readers, keypads, or even an application on a smartphone, providing more secure and convenient access control.
  • Integration: Magnetic locks, while standing alone, are quite easily integratable into greater security systems, therefore elevating the level of overall security.
  • Emergency Situations: In case of a power outage, fail-safe magnetic locks automatically open, hence safer compared to traditional locks that would be locked in such a scenario.

From the comparison above, it is evident that magnetic locks offer better protection, convenience, and versatility to commercial properties.

Applications of Magnetic Locks

Magnetic locks have wide application use in various business sectors due to high security, convenience, and versatility in integration.

Retail Stores and Shopping Malls

Retail magnetic locks have broad applications for protection of valued products in a store or shopping mall against theft. Many shop doors, storage rooms, and cabinets, holding high-priced commodities, have been protected using such locks to improve the level of security.

Offices and Business Centers

Magnetic locks are installed on entrances, individual office doors, and other sensitive areas, such as server rooms in offices and business centers. It also helps to have access control as only authorized personnel can gain entry, thereby keeping confidentiality and security intact.

Healthcare Institutions

Hospitals and other healthcare institutions use magnetic locks to restrict entry into rooms of patient records, pharmacies, and laboratories. During emergency situations, the fail-safe characteristic of such locks will always provide a ready exit and are therefore a very safe and secure option for use in critical places.

Educational Institutions

Schools and universities use magnetic locks to secure the classrooms, labs, and even the administrative offices. These locks also ensure a safe environment because unwanted people are unable to gain entry into the learning premises.

Hospitality Sector

Hotels and resorts in the hospitality industry make use of magnetic locks to secure guest rooms, gyms, spas, and other amenities. It gives guests the keyless convenience to enjoy their stay.

Industrial Facilities

Magnetic locks are installed to secure hazardous areas in industrial facilities so that the risks are kept at bay from workers. They also secure expensive machinery and equipment against access by unauthorized personnel.

In that sense, magnetic locks are indispensable in providing safety, convenience, and security across all commercial domains. Be it a retail shop, an office, or even a hospital, the adaptability and sophisticated properties of magnetic locks are inevitable to commercial security.

Cobra Locksmith’s Expertise in Magnetic Locks

Cobra Locksmith has special custom locksmith services that may range from installing to maintaining magnetic locks. With experience and knowledge, we will help you to upgrade the commercial security using magnetic locks that will provide excellent protection.

Contact us today for further details about our services or a consultation. We assure you at Cobra Locksmith that your security is in good hands.

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