What Is A Keyed Cylinder Lock?
What Is A Keyed Cylinder Lock?
A keyed cylinder lock is a type of lock that requires a key to open or close it. It consists of a cylindrical component that houses a series of spring-loaded pins.
When the correct key is inserted, the pins are pushed into alignment with the shear line, allowing the cylinder to rotate and open or close the lock.
Keyed cylinder locks are commonly used on doors, sheds, garages, padlocks, and vehicle ignitions.
There are several types of keyed cylinder locks including mortise cylinders, rim cylinders, key in knob/lever cylinders, deadbolt cylinders, and profile cylinders.
How Do You Use A Cylinder Lock Key?
To use a cylinder lock key, insert the key into the cylinder and turn it until the keyhole is in the three o’clock position.
Inside the cylinder lock is a puzzle which only the correct key can solve. When you insert a key, the series of notches in the key push the pin pairs up to different levels.
The incorrect key will push the pins so that most of them are still partly in the plug and will not open the lock.
The correct key will push each pin pair up just enough so that they line up perfectly with where the cylinder and housing come together, allowing it to open.
Cylinder locks are used on doors, sheds, garages, and even padlocks for extra security. They can be opened using keys or combinations depending on your preferences for security purposes.
Double-cylinder locksets are keyed on both sides and require a key from both exterior and interior sides of a door for locking or unlocking.
Cylinder locks come in various sizes such as 17mm ‘Universal’, 19mm Stainless Steel, 10mm Short Mill, etc.
Are Cylinder Locks Easy To Break Into?
Cylinder locks can be relatively easy to break into using the lock snapping technique. Lock snapping involves applying force to a cylinder lock in order to snap it in half, allowing the burglar to manipulate the lock and gain entry.
Euro profile cylinder locks, which are commonly used on uPVC doors, are particularly vulnerable to this method.
In order to prevent lock snapping, it is recommended that homeowners install anti-snap locks with a tested cylinder that is resistant to lock snapping methods used by criminals.
Additionally, homeowners should ensure that their euro cylinder locks are fitted properly and not protruding from the door handle.
How Do You Break A Cylinder Lock Without The Key?
There are several ways to break a cylinder lock without the key. One way is to use a bump key, which is a special type of key designed to open locks without needing the original key.
Another way is to pick the lock using a paper clip or bobby pin. If the lock is very old and worn out, it may be possible to slot a pin down the side.
Drilling is also an option as a last resort measure.
Finally, if you have access to the right tools, you can remove an ignition lock cylinder without a key by disconnecting the battery, removing the steering wheel, and using a screwdriver and paperclip.
If you don’t have access to these tools or don’t feel comfortable attempting this yourself, consider hiring a locksmith service.
How Do You Install A Cylinder Lock?
To install a cylinder lock, you will need to remove the existing lock cylinder and replace it with a new one.
To do this, you will need to unscrew the main screw and place the key inside the cylinder.
Turn the key slightly to the left or right to make sure that the carrier is parallel with the cylinder.
Then, push the cylinder out of the lock. If necessary, you can add some Lock spray inside the lock to smooth things.
Next, insert your new lock cylinder into the hole with the keyhole facing outward and thread it clockwise in the hole.
You may need to twist it towards you until it clicks into place. Finally, replace any screws or faceplates that were removed during installation.
What Is The Difference Between Lock And Cylinder?
The main difference between a lock and a cylinder is that the lock is the most bulky component of the locking system, containing the deadbolt and latch which enter the counter-plate on the jamb when the door is closed.
The cylinder, on the other hand, is a separate device which works in conjunction with the lock to provide overall security for the door.
Mortise cylinders have a threaded exterior and a cam, while rim cylinders have bolts and a stem.
Mortise locks are more secure than cylinder locks as they have two bolts which secure them to a thin metal plate located on the other side of the door.
Single-cylinder deadbolts only feature a locking mechanism requiring a key on one side, while double-cylinder deadbolts have it on both sides.
Single-cylinder deadbolts are less secure than double-cylinder options as they could potentially allow easier access to intruders.
