Magnetic lock, latch for interior doors and electromagnetic gate lock - types, features, choice, tips

In order to privacy in a room or protect the territory of the house from easy access by strangers, a lock is installed on the door and gate. However, mechanical models have a number of disadvantages that modern magnetic and electromagnetic analogs do not have. Let's look at what a magnetic lock is, how it works, what types exist, which of them are intended for installation indoors and which outdoors, what are their main pros and cons, and what are the selection criteria.

Magnetic lock device Source dvery-pro.ru

Operating principle

A modern door latch or magnetic lock operates according to the following principle:

• The structure of the lock contains two magnetized elements - a strike plate on the box and a bolt in the door leaf.
• As the doors close, at the moment when the leaf approaches the frame, the force of mutual attraction of the magnets is triggered.
• The bolt extends and locks into the groove of the bar, locking the door.
• To unlock the lock, depending on its purpose, you need to return the bolt to its original position - by turning the handle, key or card.

The electromagnetic model operates on a slightly different principle. There are no bolts or strikers - like in a standard lock. Instead, there is a powerful electromagnet with a working base. When turned on, it simply attracts and keeps the door from opening. Unlocking is carried out through the control module for turning off the power supply to the coil - by pressing a key, applying a card, magnetic contact key or a command from the smart home system.

See also: Catalog of companies that specialize in doors, windows and related work

Exploitation

The operation of magnetic door locks is no different from traditional counterparts. The main condition is professional installation, precise adjustment to ensure that the bolt fits exactly into its proper place in the door frame. The locking device itself, if made with high quality, can last a long time.

Many models have a crossbar made of plastic. In ordinary life, this does not deteriorate the characteristics of the mechanism, since the operation and scope of application do not provide for their installation in doors that may be subject to any serious mechanical loads.

Passive models are easy to install. They do not require milling grooves; the most you need to do is to slightly “recess” the base of the lock or strike plate into the body of the door or frame. The accuracy of fit in this case is not as critical as in the case of using mortise models.

Magnetic latches and locks for interior doors

Modern locking mechanisms are divided by purpose and design features into two categories - latches and locks. Let's look at each of them in more detail.

Active type magnetic lock Source palladium.ru

Latches

The magnetic door latch has two versions:

• Passive. It is analogous to furniture models - when a magnet is installed on the body and a metal plate on the door. When in contact, the metal is naturally attracted, which helps keep the door from opening. To unlock the door you just need to apply force.
• Active. This type works on the principle of a lock. There is a retractable crossbar in the door panel, and a strip in the jamb. When approaching, the latch extends and falls into the groove of the counter structure. As a result, the door becomes closed. If it is necessary to tear it off, the handle is turned and the bolt is forcibly returned to its original position.

Among the advantages of passive type latches are:

1. Elementary installation.
2. Minimum noise level when closing.
3. Lack of mechanisms.
4. Low cost.

As a rule, such locking devices are equipped with plastic windows and doors leading to a balcony, loggia and to the room of very young children. However, they are not suitable for reliably enclosing a room from other rooms of the house - at the wrong moment it can open under the pressure of an air flow.

The simplest magnetic latch Source hotel-a.ru

For this reason, an active magnetic latch is used for interior doors. Its main advantages:

• Quieter than a conventional spring-loaded latch.
• Characterized by a long service life. The absence of rubbing parts and the latest materials extend the durability of the device to 200 thousand operating cycles.
• In appearance they perfectly match and complement modern canvases in popular design styles.

Among its disadvantages, the need for standard installation for door locks is required - mortise into the door leaf and frame. In addition, such models are quite expensive.

Magnetic locks AGB (Italy) - quality at an affordable price

Practicing craftsmen have many complaints about Chinese-made magnetic locks - often the magnetic latch simply does not work. To avoid getting into trouble, you should not skimp on accessories. The products of the Italian company AGB enjoy a good reputation, as evidenced by numerous positive reviews.

For marketing purposes, the term “smart magnetic lock” was introduced.

A smart magnetic lock that overcomes the most difficult climatic conditions. Created using innovative materials to ensure the lock operates even in extreme weather conditions (humidity, dust, chemicals).

Polaris 2XT is a smart magnetic lock from AGB.
The face plate is made of stainless steel. On request, the lock is available with a rectangular face plate. Polaris 2XT features quiet closing and precise mechanical connections that give a pleasant smooth handle and key turning feel.

Centro - magnetic lock with deadbolt

The adjustable Easy-Fix ​​XT magnetic striker makes installation easy and the clamp system secures the insert into the striker

Electromagnetic gate locks

When it comes to frequent use of doors with the need to close it with a key each time, a device with an electric coil with a steel core is used as one of the options that simplifies operation. As a rule, such an electromagnetic lock is installed on a gate, gate or even an entrance door. There are several clear arguments in its favor in everyday life:

• Hidden installation – which provides protection from weather factors, intruders and adjustment to the door design.
• Easy installation - the device is mounted without the need for cutting or adjustment, and then simply connects to the power supply.
• Maximum burglary resistance - the pull-off force reaches from several hundred kg to a ton or more, which is comparable to the tensile strength of the door structure itself.
• Simple and modern control - with a button, remote control, smart home system, at a distance.
• Operation from battery - in case of emergency power outage.

Electromagnetic lock on the gate Source wp.com
The electric magnetic lock on the gate has the only drawback - dependence on the power supply. The problem can be resolved by installing an uninterruptible power supply or battery, as well as an additional backup mechanical lock. In addition, there are models with a mechanical lock that is activated when the power is turned off. You can then unlock it only with a special key.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages of electromagnetic locks:

• reliability. A metal entrance door with a magnetic lock will not require frequent repairs or replacement of parts. This is a durable and unpretentious mechanism that works on the basis of the natural laws of physics. There are no moving parts or elements that will wear out over time;
• low cost. The device itself costs no more than conventional mechanical locks on the front door. At the same time, it will serve for a long time, which will subsequently pay for the cost of the castle;
• ease of use. It’s not for nothing that magnetic locks are installed in crowded places. They are simple, but at the same time reliably protect private territory from intrusion by strangers. There is no need to constantly carry the key with you and turn it in the lock every time you open it;
• silent operation. A lock with a magnetic device operates silently - an excellent option for residential premises or work areas;
• appearance. The electromagnetic device does not stand out against the background of the door leaf. If desired, it can be completely hidden from view by being built into the door leaf.

It is also worth noting the disadvantages of a magnetic lock. Such a mechanism will not work if there is no electric current in the network. In this case, you can install an uninterruptible power supply, but even this operates for a limited time.

In terms of dimensions, such a lock is somewhat inferior to ordinary ones. A separate box with an electromagnet and a holding plate will take up additional space in the doorway space.

If an attacker has penetrated such a lock system once, it will be easy for him to bypass it again.

Criterias of choice

The quality, durability and strength of a magnetic lock can only be guaranteed if it is selected taking into account the following series of criteria:

1. Absence of defects, backlashes and manufacturing defects in the design.
2. The level of protection against moisture, dust, and precipitation corresponding to the actual conditions of use.
3. Electrical insulation of the housing - for electric models.
4. Anti-corrosion coating - for street vehicles.
5. Possibility of combination with control sensors and tracking system.

Advice! Both electromagnetic and magnetic locks for gates without electricity must be selected in accordance with the parameters of frequency of operation. It’s one thing when the mechanism is installed on a spare, rarely used gate, door to the attic or closet, another thing when it’s installed on the main exit or in the shower room – which are used several times a day. Therefore, the guaranteed number of operating cycles must be appropriate.

Manufacturers and models

Many manufacturers produce magnetic locks. You can find a large number of models produced by Chinese companies. There are also serious companies, primarily Italian, offering high-quality locks.

RENZ

Italian manufacturer producing a variety of door fittings. The products are of good quality and low price.

FUARO

Chinese manufacturer offering a large selection of various accessories

AGB

One of the largest Italian manufacturers, developing and producing locking mechanisms for doors, windows, and other products that are distinguished by high quality, durability, and excellent performance.

Briefly about the main thing

Magnetic locks for interior doors operate on the principle of attracting two magnets. The device consists of two parts - one is installed on the canvas, the other on the box. The active system uses the analogy of a mechanical lock - a bolt and a striker, while a passive system uses a escutcheon and a striker, like on furniture.

At the same time, active type locks are most often installed on interior doors, which in turn are divided into three types:

• With a handle.
• With locking device.
• With magnetic card to unlock the lock.

There are also electromagnetic models - with a special coil and core that generate a magnetic field. Most often, such locks are placed on gates. When choosing locking mechanisms of the types under consideration, a number of criteria are taken into account - defect-free housing, level of protection from external factors appropriate for operation, electrical protection, corrosion resistance and the possibility of integration with modern control systems.

Problems indicating the need for repair work

Magnetic locks are reliable and do not cause much trouble to their users. Trouble-free operation is possible provided that all rules and regulations are observed during installation.

But there are exceptions; when thinking about repairs, first of all, pay attention to the following:

• fastening deformation;
• relaxation of the mounting angle;
• improper fastening of the plate;
• violation of recommendations when installing a magnet;
• deformation of the door leaf;
• there is no attraction. It is recommended to measure the holding force. The indicator should be around 100 kg.

If any deformation or incorrect installation of components is detected, they must be replaced immediately.

Coating of work surfaces

Since the working elements of the lock (core and anchor plate) are made of low-alloy steel, they are susceptible to corrosion. To protect against corrosion (rust), a protective coating is applied to the working surfaces. Usually varnishing, galvanizing or nickel plating is used.

OLEVS electromagnetic locks use a zinc coating to protect against corrosion.

If, as a result of long-term use, the lock has lost its protective coating, and corrosion of the working surfaces of the core and armature has begun (rust has appeared), this will not affect the operation of the lock - the holding force will not change. And to restore the appearance, you can remove the rust with fine sandpaper and then cover the working surfaces with a thin layer of varnish.

General information

Before buying an electromagnetic lock, you need to study in detail all the information about this device. With its help, you can choose the optimal model that will work well for many years.

Classification of electromagnetic locks

Experts prefer to divide all electromagnetic locks by type of operation and method of control. Both of these classifications combine devices that have a number of common characteristics. All this helps consumers choose the right option that will work as efficiently as possible and reliably protect a residential or office space.

According to the type of operation, locks are divided into the following types:

1. Retaining. Such structures are usually made overhead and can be installed on the bottom, side or top of the door. The last option is considered the most correct, since it practically does not reduce the doorway.
2. Shear. This type of lock does not cut into the door frame, but into the door itself (usually in the middle). They do not reduce the size of the opening and have an attractive appearance. The device does not work directly, but by shifting the tongue, which reliably locks the door.

In addition to this classification, there is one more. It allows you to select models of locks equipped with special sensors that help control the entire structure.

According to the method of control, the following varieties are distinguished:

1. With the presence of electronics. The operating principle of these locks is based on the closure of a magnetic contact sensor, which should be located on the right side of the door frame. A permanent magnet is installed on the opposite side to help keep the door closed.
2. No electronics. Such designs are characterized by a high degree of reliability, therefore they are used in access control systems and premises that provide access only to certain persons.

Components

In order to better understand the principle of operation of an electromagnetic lock and install it yourself, you need to decide on a set of mechanisms. All additional components are relatively inexpensive and can be found in any specialty store. The complete package should include the following items:

1. Locking device. It is sold together with a metal plate and a set of wires that will be used to connect to the power source.
2. Controller. This element of the overall design is designed to control all its components. All parts of the mechanism are connected through it.
3. Information reader. It is a code panel that is used to open doors. A special card or electronic key fob, as well as a secret digital code, can be used as a key.
4. A set of keys. In most cases, an electromagnetic lock is complemented by one main key and several additional ones (from 3 to 6 pieces). The main element is pre-programmed for a certain opening frequency and is used to adjust the settings of all structural parts.
5. Buttons for leaving an apartment or office. These small but very important elements are installed indoors and help you leave the room without using keys.
6. Power unit. As a rule, this device is complemented by several auxiliary batteries, which ensure continuous operation of the locking device. The power source can be a standard electrical network with a voltage of 220 volts.
7. Wiring. It is used to connect all structural parts.

In addition to the basic set of elements, the lock can be equipped with a door closer or video intercom. The first device ensures smooth closing of the doors, and the second makes it possible to see and hear the visitor.

Advantages and disadvantages

An electromagnetic lock, like any other device, has not only positive but also negative sides. If you take all of them into account, you can select the optimal settings that will reduce the likelihood of breakdowns and extend the life of the equipment.

Among the advantages, the following should be highlighted::

1. Durability. Such a lock can reliably protect a room for a long time. It has no moving parts that can succumb to friction and become unusable. Because of this feature, the device rarely breaks down and does not require any preventive measures.
2. Versatility. Such a device can be installed on almost all types of doors (plastic, wood, metal, glass).
3. Reliability. Unlike mechanical locking devices, electromagnetic ones cannot be opened using drilling or a master key.
4. Protection. Such a device cannot be hacked by force, since this would require a force of several hundred kilograms.
5. Ease of use. The lock is simply installed and repaired in a short time.
6. Practicality. Weather and temperature conditions, as well as other external factors, do not affect the operation of the mechanism, so it can be installed not only indoors, but also outdoors.
7. Availability. This type of door lock is notable for its low cost, which makes it possible to install it even in the apartments of people with little financial resources.
8. Remote control. All modern models are equipped with a system that allows you to open and close doors while being at a short distance from them.

Despite the large number of advantages, the device also has several disadvantages. They must be taken into account before purchasing the product and starting its installation. Otherwise, you may encounter insurmountable difficulties that will bring a lot of inconvenience to people's lives.

Main disadvantages:

1. Dependence on the power grid. Not all models are equipped with batteries, so if there is a power outage, the doors will open automatically.
2. Price. The price for an electromagnetic lock is slightly higher than for a mechanical one.
3. Appearance. Most users find the device less attractive than a standard lock.

Principle of operation

The electromagnetic lock has a simple device that has an easy-to-understand operating principle. It can be understood not only by an experienced person, but also by a beginner.

The principle of operation of the design:

1. When voltage is applied from the mains, a current is generated in the winding of the device.
2. The closed armature (reciprocal plate) and the core create a circuit in which a magnetic field is formed.
3. With its help, the door is securely held in the closed position.
4. As soon as a key is applied to the information reader or a code is entered, the magnetic circuit is broken.
5. The strike plate is pressed out and the door instantly opens.