What Is a Maglock?

If you’re researching secure ways to control door access for your business, you've probably come across maglocks. We get a lot of questions about them at APEX Control Solutions, so here’s a straightforward guide to how they work and why they’re so widely used.

Simply put, a maglock is a lock that uses a magnetic force to keep a door secure. It’s made up of two main parts: a powerful electromagnet (usually mounted on the door frame) and a metal armature plate (attached to the door). When electricity powers the magnet, it creates a strong magnetic pull that holds the armature plate tightly in place, keeping the door securely shut.

The Science Behind Maglocks

Maglocks are built on the idea that when electric current flows through a coil, it generates a magnetic field. In a maglock, this field is strong enough to bond the metal plate to the magnet, essentially locking the door as long as the power is on. When you cut the power, the magnetic field disappears, and the door can open.

Why Are Maglocks So Popular?

You might see maglocks in places like schools, office buildings, and hospitals, and there’s a reason they’re so popular:

• Strength: Maglocks come with a holding force ranging from around 600 to 1,200 pounds, so they’re strong enough to keep the door secure under a lot of pressure.
• Low Maintenance: With no moving parts, maglocks tend to be more reliable and need less upkeep than traditional locks.
• Quick Release: Maglocks unlock instantly when the power is cut, which is especially useful for emergency exits.

Different Types of Maglocks

There are two main types:

1. Fail-Safe Maglocks: These release the door if the power goes out, making them suitable for emergency exits or other areas where safety is a top priority.
2. Fail-Secure Locks: Less common in maglocks but more typical in electric strikes, fail-secure locks stay locked if power is lost, which can be important for specific security needs.

How Maglocks Are Installed

Installing a maglock usually involves attaching the magnet to the door frame and the armature plate to the door itself. They’re then wired to a power supply, often 12V or 24V DC, and connected to an access control system, keypad, or exit button. Since installation requires some wiring and precision, it’s best to have a professional install your maglock.

Common Uses for Maglocks

You’ll find maglocks in places where security and quick access are key, such as:

• Office doors
• Restricted areas in hospitals
• Server rooms and data centers
• Warehouses and stockrooms

Are Maglocks Right for You?

Choosing the right lock for your building depends on your security needs and any specific safety regulations. Maglocks are a good choice for businesses that need a simple, reliable, and powerful way to control access. If you’d like more help figuring out whether a maglock is right for you, reach out to us at APEX Control Solutions. We’re happy to walk you through the options!

Check out our full range of maglocks to find the right fit for your security needs.