Many different things, like cabinets, mailboxes, vending machines, and furniture, use cam locks as a way to keep things locked. They are an easy and effective way to keep valuable things safe and limit who can get into certain places. Unfortunately, there are so many cam locks on the market that it can be hard to pick the right one for your needs. This post will talk about the most important things you should think about when choosing a cam lock to make sure it works well and is safe.
Level Of Security
Since a cam lock’s main job is to keep things safe, the first thing you should think about is what amount of security you need for your situation. There are different levels of protection for cam locks based on things like the material, design, and keying options. When you need high security, look for cam locks made of long-lasting materials like brass or hardened steel that have features like systems that stop drilling, picking, and tampering.
Making It Last
Another important thing to think about is how long the lock will last, especially if it will be used outside or in a high-traffic area. How long a cam lock lasts relies on things like the materials used, how it’s built, and how it’s finished. One example is stainless steel cam locks, which don’t rust or wear down easily. This makes them good for use outside or in places that get wet or rough.
Fit And Size
There are lots of different styles and sizes of Selectlok Australia cam locks, so they can be used in lots of different scenarios. When you pick out a cam lock, make sure it fits the fixing holes and size of the furniture or equipment you already have. Find out how thick the door or panel is where the cam lock will go to make sure it fits securely and to find the right length of the cam.
Choices For Keying
There are different keying options for cam locks so that you can find one that fits your wants and preferences for security. Keyed alike, keyed differently, and master key systems are the most popular ways to key something. When you have more than one entry point, keyed-alike cam locks make it easy to use the same key to open all of them. Keyed different cam locks, on the other hand, need a different key for each lock. This makes the system safer because people can’t get into other locks without the right key. A master key can open multiple locks, and each lock has its key. This makes it possible to control entry hierarchically.
Keeping The Key
If the key stays in the lock when it’s not locked, this is called “key retention.” You can get cam locks that keep the key in or ones that let you take it out. When the lock is opened, key-retained cam locks keep the key inside, so it can’t be lost or found elsewhere. Key-removable cam locks let you take out the key while it’s both locked and open. This makes the lock safer by stopping people from making copies of the key without permission.
Setting Up
When choosing a cam lock, think about how easy it is to install, especially if you want to do it yourself. Look for cam locks that come with clear, easy-to-follow instructions and attach hardware that works with them. Some cam locks are designed so that they don’t need any special tools to be installed. This makes them quick and easy to use.
Appeal To The Eye
Even though safety and functionality are the most important things, nice looks are also important, especially in cases where the lock’s look is part of the general design style. There are many finishes and types of cam locks, such as polished chrome, satin nickel, and black powder-coated finishes. This means that you can pick a lock that matches the look of your furniture or equipment.
Conclusion
When looking for the right cam lock, you need to think about things like security level, durability, size and fit, keying choices, key retention, installation, and how it looks. By looking at these things and choosing a cam lock that fits your needs, you can make sure that your application is as safe and useful as it can be. The right cam lock will give you peace of mind that your valuable items are safe from people who shouldn’t be able to get to them, whether you’re locking cabinets, lockers, vending machines, or furniture.