The Locks With a Magnetic Personality: Are Mag Locks Really the Easy Way Out?

Also, it may be a benefit to you and reassuring to your LAHJ to know that the electromagnetic lock you are using is BHMA/ANSI a156.23 certified. For certification information, visit http://www.buildershardware.com/2010.html.

MAG LOCK SYSTEM COMPONENTS

Power supply: The output of power supplies for electromagnetic locks are typically either 12 or 24 volts. The power supply may be as simple as a plug-in type or as complex as a hard-wired locked cover multiple regulated output unit. Many power supplies are available with back up batteries to provide power to electromagnetic lock in the event of a power failure, as well as terminals for connection to the FACP (Fire Alarm Control Panel) If you are not licensed for electrical work, you may want to exclude the actual final hookup of your power supply to line voltage from your proposal, and hire an electrician to do it.

Auxiliary controls: This broad family of products includes items such as REX (Request-To-Exit) pushbuttons, motion sensors, key switches, keypads and access control systems. Virtually every installation will require auxiliary controls.

Emergency release: This is a critical area, and group of products which if properly selected, connected and installed, will make the electromagnetic locking system not only secure, but safe as well.

The system design goal is of course to be both safe and secure. In an emergency, such as a fire, the door cannot impede egress.

Emergency release measures include not only exit bars and pushbuttons mounted on the door which unlock the electromagnetic lock, but also specialized devices such as pull stations and connections between the electromagnetic locking system and the building fire alarm and/or sprinkler system.

Electromagnetic locking systems must be designed with deliberate measures in place to cut power in order to guarantee safe egress. Designing an electromagnetic locking system around the assumption that if there is a fire or other type of emergency, the building power will shut off, and therefore the electromagnetic locks will unlock, is a dangerous assumption to make on behalf of innocent unknowing building occupants whose lives may be placed in jeopardy as a consequence.

Electromagnetic lock: Electromagnetic locks are now available in a wide range of sizes; holding powers; finishes; mounting options; functions; and integrated into self-contained systems. The electromagnetic lock assembly is comprised of two major parts-- the coil, which mounts on the stationary door frame and which receives power and the armature, which typically is mounted on the door itself by means of a special bolt assembly which allows for the armature to pivot and thereby align securely with the armature.

Size: Generally the size of an electromagnetic lock is function of the number of doors it is designed to secure. For most security applications, what is referred to as a 1200-1500 lb. magnet is considered standard for a single door. For access/door control applications, smaller magnets are available. Pairs of doors usually are set up with dual electromagnetic locks which are mounted in a single housing. This arrangement allows for maximum holding force, individual control over each door leaf, and a simpler installation with a single housing to attach to the door frame. If individual door control is not a requirement, and if less holding force is allowable, then some electromagnetic locks are offered in a single size but with two half sized armatures.

Finishes: Electromagnetic locks are provided in all architectural finishes, and may also be plated and painted to suite the installation requirements. Outdoor and ‘high security’ applications may require that the electromagnetic lock or armature be rust resistant or special provisions, such as pipe fitting be provided to protect wiring from tampering.

Mounting: The standard electromagnetic lock installation is on interior out swinging doors where the electromagnetic lock is placed on the top of the doorframe. This is a good place for them because they are less likely to obstruct the opening’s width or get bumped into by heads, arms, wheelchairs, etc.