Utility locks are basically auxiliary locks, and can be pin tumbler, tubular, disk tumbler, wafer tumbler, electromechanical, and magnetic locks. They usually are made of a smaller cylinder lock that can be implemented in many different kinds of functions or considerations. Here’s a guide to all the different types of Specialty Utility Locks, as prepared by the experts here at Chicago Locksmiths.
Pin Tumbler Locks
Pin tumbler locks were first patented in 1965 by Linus Yale Jr. Wafer tumblers were first patented in 1868 by Filo Felter. This kind of lock uses a flat steel key blade in order to operate a flat wafer. Double bitted wafer tumbler locks were first invented in 1913, and were incorporated into automotive locks in 1915.
As pin tumbler locks evolved and eventually replaced warded locks, wafer tumblers started to replace many of the earliest high end pin tumblers made by the first lock manufacturers. Nowadays, many different kinds of utility locks exist, including electromechanical, mechanical, magnetic, and high security types. Utility locks can be used with commercial keyways and interchangeable cores, getting rid of the requirement to carry extra keys or fit the key into a master key interface.
High Security Utility Locks
There’s many kinds of keying choices available to consumers. From commonly keyed locks like the 54kg keyway (which allows for prefabricated, key-ready keyways) to specialty configurations like cabinet, drawer, gate, switch, trailer, switch, or showcase locks. These can be made up out of metal or even wood!! These locks are available from a wide range of manufacturers including ASSA, Abloy, Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, and Illinois – brand that make high security security locks out of key blanks, or high security utility key blanks. The ASSA CLIQ lock provides all user access schedules, audit trails, and the ability to quickly add or remove keys.
Medeco offers cam locks in many different customizable lengths. Electronic utility cam locks can be integrated into door systems without any need to wire them to the doors, and are activated by a rechargeable key.
