Lock mechanisms in the age of intensive technological development also do not go unnoticed by progressive designers. Specialists offer new, fundamentally different solutions for the protection of private homes, offices and critical facilities with increased security requirements. But classic devices, which are still in demand among most ordinary users, do not disappear from the consumer's field of vision. In particular, the English castle, even against the background of the usual mechanical models, remains quite popular.
The principle of operation and device
In Russia, English locks are also known as cylinder locks, representing a wide family of simple, easy-to-use and affordable models. The basis of such devices is formed by a cylindrical metal core, from which the name of the species originated. Depending on the state, the cylinder lock can lock the door with the tongue of the core or be in the open position. Manipulations with the cylinder are possible only if a suitable key is entered.
The mechanism of constipation works thanks to the pins. In the closed state, different parts of the same pin enter the grooveslock body and cylinder at the same time. In order to turn the core and displace the locking tongue, it is necessary to insert the key and, thus, put the group of pins on the boundary state between the core and the body. At the same time, the English castle may have other functional elements, such as frames with teeth. But the principle of action remains the same.
Key Features of the Castle
Different designs may have their own unique combinations of characteristics, but if we take the average values of the 3rd safety class model, the parameters can be as follows:
- Number of bolts – 3.
- Diameter of crossbars – 15 mm.
- Departure crossbar - 35 mm.
- Number of turns: 3.
- Center gap - 85 mm.
- Dimensions - 250x110x20 mm.
- Weight - 1.5-2 kg.
As for the materials of manufacture, the basis of most models is steel. Another thing is that, depending on the modification, the English door lock can receive different coatings. Some manufacturers rely on powder paints, others on nickel, and still others on chrome mixes.
Reliability of the lock
It is generally accepted that models of this type are the least reliable of all traditional mechanical devices. Nevertheless, the cylinder lock in most cases is not exposed to risks that could lead to breaking, since it is mainly used in everyday life. Hacking is permissible by physical methods, but it is notmeans that in practice it takes place as a trend. Another thing is that compared to other versions of mechanical locks, this option is less reliable.
This minus is compensated by the fact that the design is distinguished by a simple device and, as a rule, can be repaired. However, the degree of protection may also depend on what type of lock is used. For example, the English overhead lock is the most unstable, in contrast to the mortise modification. Affects the quality of protection and the nature of the installation. In this aspect, fittings and accessories can have a significant impact. Now it's worth taking a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of English castles.
Benefits
In terms of ease of operation and maintenance, this is the most attractive version of the mechanical lock. The device of the cylinder system of constipation also makes it possible to replace the core without much effort in case of breakage or loss of keys. Most importantly, with such a repair, it is not necessary to replace the entire body by dismantling the structure. This became possible after the traditional English lock mechanism was standardized and different manufacturers began to produce cores of the same size. That is, cylinders from different companies can be integrated into the same body. Again, compactness can also be added to the treasury of ergonomic advantages - this applies to both the lock itself and the keys. Although this parameter depends on the specific model. Another advantage is the possibility of technical development of the castle. This isdoes not apply to all models, but the premium versions of major manufacturers already provide for wide configurations in the basic versions. With the help of an additional option, you can significantly increase the individual characteristics of the system.
Flaws
All claims to models of this type are due to modest protection indicators. With proper training and sufficient tooling, a skilled attacker will be able to overcome such a barrier. In any case, with entry-level or budget-level models. For this reason, the English lock is recommended to be used in combination with additional security systems. Usually, experts advise providing for power fortifications in the form of bolts. The weak point of the cylinder mechanisms is the possibility of knocking out the core, so the degree of secrecy does not matter much. In this sense, English models correspond in reliability to level locks.
Conclusion
The Russian market offers many variations of the cylinder lock. The most durable, ergonomic and reliable solutions are offered by Cisa, KALE, Cerberus, etc. The Guardian manufacturer specializes in door systems, so in cooperation with him you can immediately count on a systematic solution to the issue of protecting a house or apartment. The organic combination door / English lock has the advantage that both components match each other in terms of burglary resistance. Otherwise, there is a risk that even with a heavy-duty locking systemA weak door device will leave an intruder with a chance of successful penetration. Actually, for this case, the lines of the listed companies also offer auxiliary reinforcing devices for door structures. Some of them, like armor plates, also count on other threats. For example, technologists take into account the insulating qualities of the structure, fire resistance, etc.
