How to Choose the Correct Lock Cylinder?
In the world of security technology, lock cylinders play a crucial role. They are the heart of many locking systems and ensure that doors remain securely locked. This guide provides you with comprehensive information about lock cylinders, including their types, functionalities, and tips for selecting the right cylinder for your needs.
- What is a Lock Cylinder?
- What should I consider with lock cylinders?
- How do I measure a cylinder?
- What is a cylinder lock and what types are there?
What is a Lock Cylinder?
A lock cylinder, often referred to as a cylinder lock, is a mechanism that allows a door to be locked and unlocked using a key. It consists of a cylinder core, which contains the key channels, and a housing. The correct combination of cuts on the key lifts the pins in the cylinder to the correct height to open the lock.
A lock cylinder from the manufacturer ABUS.
What should I consider with lock cylinders?
When selecting a lock cylinder, you should consider the following criteria:
- Security level: Higher quality cylinders offer protection against picking, drilling, and bump key methods.
- Size: The cylinder should fit precisely into the door lock. Measure the thickness of your door to determine the correct size.
- Locking system: Consider whether you need a keyed alike system, where multiple locks can be opened with the same key.
How do I measure a cylinder?
The dimensions length A and length B are measured in millimeters from the center of the hole for the faceplate screw (mounting screw) outward (length A / length I) or inward (length B / length II). It is crucial to measure up to the outer edge of the door fitting (shield or rosette). The cylinder should not protrude more than 2-3 mm on each side from the door shield or rosette to avoid providing a target for break-in tools and for insurance purposes.
Precise measuring is especially important for keyed alike cylinders, as these are often custom-made upon request. It is important to measure carefully to obtain perfectly fitting cylinders and avoid potential security risks.
What is a cylinder lock and what types are there?
With different or single-locking cylinders, each cylinder requires its own key. This may lead to a larger keyring, but if you lose a key, the finder does not immediately gain access to all rooms secured with keyed alike cylinders.
The cylinder lock determines whether a key can open only a single cylinder (different locking) or multiple cylinders simultaneously (keyed alike).
Different Locking
They are usually offered with keys specifically matched to the cylinder, and these keys can only open the door in which the corresponding cylinder is installed. If you have multiple doors with different locks, your keyring can become quite heavy, as a specific key is required for each door.
Different locking cylinders mean that each cylinder is opened with its own key.
The advantage of different locking cylinders is that losing a key does not automatically grant access to all other premises. Each cylinder has its own lock and is independent of the other cylinders. This provides a certain level of security and privacy in the various areas of your premises.
Note: Different locking cylinders are often offered as standard and are generally more cost-effective. They allow for an individual security solution for each lock and are a good option to control and restrict access to different areas without linking all cylinders in a system.
Keyed Alike
If you are tired of your heavy keyring and want more convenience, you can replace different locks with keyed alike cylinders of a cylinder series.
These keyed alike cylinders allow you to open multiple doors, such as the garage door, garden gate, basement door, and front door, with just one key.
The benefit lies in the convenience and improved quality of life. However, you must be careful not to lose this key, as it provides access to multiple doors.
In our extensive range, you will find a variety of lock cylinder categories tailored to different security needs and requirements. Whether you are looking for a simple cylinder for indoor use or high-security solutions for exterior doors – you will find it with us. We carry products from renowned manufacturers such as ABUS and BKS, known for their quality and reliability.
