Locking mechanisms in an 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 by 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 high in popularity.
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 condition, the cylinder lock may 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 locking mechanism is triggered by pins. In the closed state, different parts of the same pin enter the grooves of the lock case and cylinder at the same time. In order to rotate the core and shift the locking language, 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 can have their own unique combination of characteristics, but if you take the average values of the model 3 safety class, then the parameters can be as follows:
- The number of crossbars is 3.
- The diameter of the crossbars is 15 mm.
- Departure of a crossbar - 35 mm.
- Number of revolutions: 3.
- The center distance is 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 may receive different coatings. Some manufacturers rely on powder paints, others on nickel, and still others on chrome mixes.
Castle Reliability
It is generally accepted that models of this type are the least reliable of all traditional mechanical devices. Nevertheless, a cylinder lock in most cases is not exposed to risks that could lead to hacking, since it is mainly used in everyday life. Hacking is permissible by physical methods, but this does not mean that in practice this 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, an English padlock is the most unstable, as opposed to a mortise modification. It affects the quality of protection and the nature of the installation. In this aspect, accessories and accessories can have a significant impact. Now it is worthwhile to become more familiar with the advantages and disadvantages of English castles.
Benefits
In terms of ease of use and maintenance, this is the most attractive version of a mechanical lock. The device of the cylinder locking system also allows you to easily replace the core in case of breakage or loss of keys. Most importantly, with such a repair, it is not necessary to replace the entire body, performing the dismantling of the structure. This became possible after the traditional mechanism of the English castle was standardized and different manufacturers began to produce cores of the same standard sizes. That is, cylinders from different companies can be integrated into the same housing. Again, compactness can be added to the piggy bank of ergonomic advantages - this also applies to the lock itself and keys. Although this parameter depends on the specific model. Another advantage is the possibility of technical development of the castle. This does not apply to all models, but the premium versions of large manufacturers already include wide configurations in the basic versions. With the help of an additional option, it is possible to significantly increase individual characteristics of the system.
disadvantages
All claims to models of this type are determined by modest indicators of protection. With proper preparation and sufficient instrumental equipment, a qualified attacker will be able to cope with such a barrier. In any case, with entry-level or budget models. For this reason, it is recommended to use an English lock in combination with additional security systems. Usually, experts advise providing for power fortifications in the form of bolts. The weak point of cylinder mechanisms is considered to be the possibility of knocking out the core, so the degree of secrecy does not play a special role. In this sense, English models correspond to the reliability of 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 complexes, therefore, in cooperation with it, you can immediately count on a systematic solution to the issue of protecting your home or apartment. The organic combination of a door / English lock is advantageous in that both components correspond to each other in terms of burglar resistance. Otherwise, there is a risk that even if there is a heavy-duty locking system, a weak door will leave an attacker a chance to successfully penetrate. Actually, for this case, in the lines of the listed companies, auxiliary reinforcing devices for door structures are also offered. Some of them, like armor plates, also count on other threats. For example, technologists take into account the insulating qualities of the structure, resistance to fire, etc.