Electromagnetic Locks Door locks are available in varying degrees of tamper-resistance and strength, and they may involve complex interlocking components that require complicated installation and maintenance procedures. Over the past two decades, electromagnetic locks have begun to replace traditional interlocking units in high-profile or access-specific applications, largely due to their high strength, durability and relatively low maintenance requirement.How Electromagnets Work Electromagnets are ferrous materials that become magnetized when electric currents pass through them. A simple electromagnet operates with a coil of wire wrapped around a ferrous material and connected to a power source. When this power source activates, it transmits current around the ferrous material, which then emits a powerful magnetic field. Because these magnets can depower and use relatively small amounts of electric energy while activated, there are many uses for electromagnets in technical and consumer products. For instance, solenoids are common electromagnetic-based pieces of equipment that convert electric energy into physical force, and operate primarily through the activation and deactivation of electromagnetic components. Electromagnetic locks are an example of the many implementation possibilities for powerful electromagnets. Typical door locks involve interconnecting parts composed of strong, durable metals that have tamper resistance based on sheer physical strength. Electromagnetic locks, first introduced in the 1980s, feature a locking mechanism that relies on a magnetic field to remain sealed. Egress occurs when the electromagnet powers down. Because the electromagnet is contains a sophisticated electric circuit, interrupting this current to facilitate entrance is an easy process. Composition of Electromagnetic Locks Basic electromagnetic locks consist of a lock assembly and an armature, and these two units are available in different configurations to fit a broad range of application needs. For instance, there are exposed, slightly concealed and fully concealed electromagnetic locks to meet aesthetic or security requirements. The basic function of the lock involves the armature and lock assembly meeting at a point so that the magnet can hold the door together, often with strength ranges up to 3000 pounds. Depending on the exact composition, this lock assembly can snap together into a groove on the armature with an audible click. The major benefit of this type of design, especially when compared with a more standard interlocking unit, is the increased power and security features an electromagnetic lock offers. Because the lock can be unfixed by electrical means, magnetic locks can connect and disconnect through the use of a keycard, fingerprint recognition device or other high tech method to limited room access. Electromagnetic lock design can be custom-fitted to almost any door, whether it has a handle or not, making it highly versatile. For instance, electromagnetic units can affix to swinging doors or sliding glass doors with equal success. Certain Disadvantages Electromagnetic locks are not immune to certain disadvantages, though. The primary discrepancy is cost. The balance between money saved in power versus maintenance costs can be prohibitive. Additionally, while electromagnets can operate with high-level strength in many different environments, they are susceptible to power outages. If a power outage affects the electromagnetic current, the whole magnet could go offline and then anyone could gain access to a restricted area. This malfunction may necessitate a separate alternative power source, which could be expensive. Other Electrical & Power Generation Guides
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Last Modified November 25, 2009.