Lock Cylinders

Euro Double Lock Cylinder - Image © Aldridge Security

Double Oval Lock Cylinder - Image © Aldridge Security

Cylinder Lock With Key

Lock cylinders come in a variety of types, with different profiles and different locking systems. Cylinders can be removed more easily by locksmiths than other types of lock and the lock cylinder can be changed without altering other hardware. Meaning that getting a locksmith to upgrade your lock cylinders can be a relatively fast and straight forward process.

Lock Cylinder Profiles

The three most common profiles of Cylinder Locks are the Euro Cylinder, the British Oval and Swiss profiles.

The Euro profile cylinder is well known because of coverage in the media about the risk of lock snapping. But don't worry! You can avoid this by upgrading your locks to anti-snap, anti-drill and anti-bump and ensuring that you have British Standard locks with a three star rating, or a one star cylinder with two star door furniture (e.g. handle) attached to it.

Lock Cylinder Uses

Lock Cylinders can allow for complex key systems, depending on the locking mechanism within. Here are examples of uses other than a traditional individually keyed system.

• Keyed alike - Cylinders in this system can all be operated by one key.
• Grand Master/Master Keyed - The master key system is relatively self explanatory, with keys for each door and one master key that will open all. However, the Grand Master system involves lock groups, with each group having a master key and all locks able to be opened by the grand master key.
• Maison Keying - This system allows people in an apartment building/office block to open communal areas, but open no private rooms other than their own.
• Electronic Cylinder - These sometimes have a control unit attached, but are generally attached to an access control system. An access control system allows key control, fine access control and logging of entry/exit activity.

Our professional and experienced locksmiths can help decide which lock cylinders are best suited to your needs. So if you're thinking of fitting or replacing your lock cylinders call us on 0800 0612 677 and talk to one of our team.