Are Magnetic Gate Locks Secure?

Posted by admin 23/09/2019 1 Comment(s) Gate Automation Product,Gate Automation,

There are several reasons why someone might choose to install an automated gate system. Included in the benefits is that the gates can provide an increased security element. Electric gates can act as a physical deterrent to potential thieves and, depending on the access system, can offer better control over who enters the property. But are magnetic gate locks secure? Magnetic gate locks (or maglocks) are an alternative to electric or manual locks. Electric clasp or bolt locks are electrically operated like magnetic locks and can be integrated into an access control system; they differ by using a variety of clasps and latches rather than magnetism. Manual locks must be operated by a person and cannot be integrated into an access control system.

 

What is a Magnetic Gate Lock?

Consisting of an electromagnet and an armature plate, magnetic gate locks are a form of securing a gate using magnetism generated electrically. 

 

picture of a magnetic gate lock


Maglocks are fail-safe – a fail-safe lock will unlock if the power is lost.


Modern maglocks typically compare well to conventional locks and on average, cost less than a lightbulb to power.

 

How do Magnetic Gate Locks Work?

The two components of the maglock are designed to meet when the gate is closed. When electricity is supplied to the electromagnet (when it is ‘on’), the electromagnet is magnetised and strongly attracts the armature plate and creates a locking action. Cutting the power to the lock demagnetises the electromagnet and releases the door.

 

Common Applications

Maglocks are widely used in applications where access needs controlling. For example, doors in offices, hospitals and factories. For automated gates, they are most commonly used where the gates need to be kept closed for safety or security reasons. type of magnetic lock

 

Gate motors and their associated control arms and gate mountings are strong. However, the force that can be exerted on the opening edge of a large swing gate can be enormous simply because of leverage. On a swing gate over 2.5m wide, the gate motor’s internal mechanisms, external arms and gate mounts can be broken, and the gate forced open.

 

This can be achieved by exerting enough force on the opening edge, or by strong winds acting on the face of a close boarded gate, which effectively acts like a sail. To overcome this, maglocks installed at the opening edges of a pair of swing gates are strong enough to hold the gates closed.

 

On sliding gates, the maglocks are installed on the gate and an adjacent pillar, post or wall. These are predominantly for security as the principle of leverage does not apply.

 

Advantages
 

Magnetic gate locks are very strong, even when compared to manual locks. They are relatively discreet and therefore, do not spoil the overall aesthetic of the gates. Maglocks are also easy to install and integrate into a new or existing access control system.

 

magnetic locks are a secure way to lock automated gates

Disadvantages

If there is a cable supply that is accessible from outside the gates, armoured cables will need to be installed to prevent the chance of them being cut in order to gain unauthorised access. Power also needs to be supplied to the opening edges of the gates, requiring additional wiring.

 

In conclusion, when installed in a way suitable to requirements, magnetic locks are a secure way in which to lock your automated gates. Maglocks are also strong enough to cope with stress from the leverage that may be caused by the wind or potential intruders.

 

Linkcare Gate Automation specialises in the selling of electric gate kits and accessories. To see our full range of magnetic gate locks, click here. We also sell a variety of aluminium gates and access control systems. To ensure the professional installation of all of our products we can recommend trusted and professional installers throughout the UK. For information on any of our products, or for advice on installers please contact us.

1 Comment(s)

Stan Bishop:
07/04/2021, 09:26:53 AM
Reply

Hi, Do you have any mag locks suitable for twin driveway gates? Many thanks

Simon:
07/04/2021, 09:33:47 AM

Hi Please see:- https://www.linkcare.net/index.php?route=product/search&search=gl220 and the bracket https://www.linkcare.net/linkcare-br-220gz-z-l-mounting-brackets-gl-220-mag-lock

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