The lock cylinder is the key entry mechanism that operates the lock and allows the opening or closing of the latches or bolts that confirm the lock. It is important to bear in mind that the lock cylinder is the part through which the key is inserted, which is why in the event of loss of the key or change of the set of keys, it is sufficient to change the cylinder and not the lock as a whole.
In addition, and logically, there are various types of lock cylinders that adapt to the circumstances and needs of each type of door. That is why, one of the factors to take into account when choosing the most suitable type of lock cylinder for a door is the type of key that will be needed to open it (so the lock cylinder directly influences the type of key needed). Another factor to take into account is the material of the door or the lock cylinders that provide additional security. The shape of the lock cylinder or the finishes and materials thereof may also vary.
Types of cylinders for locks
Entrance of cylinders
One of the main differences that makes some locks stand out from others is the number of entries or the specific opening mechanisms they have. Therefore, we can differentiate between locks with a single entry, a double entry or one entry and a knob.
Single- entry cylinders allow the door to be closed only from the outside, making them ideal for rooms that do not need to be closed from the inside. On the other hand, there are double-entry cylinders , which allow the key to close the door from both sides. Although this is true, it is more common for the door to be opened from the outside. Finally, there are also knob and entry cylinders , which allow the door to be opened with a key from the outside and from the inside through a knob or a latch.
Door cylinder size
Lock cylinders can also be differentiated by their size and position . Thus, we can find centered lock cylinders, asymmetrical lock cylinders and half-cylinder lock cylinders. Centered lock cylinders have the cam at the midpoint between the two ends. The most common sizes of this type of lock cylinder are 20x20mm, 30x30mm, 35x35mm and 40x40mm. On the other hand, asymmetrical lock cylinders are those in which the distances of each of the ends with respect to the cams are different. That is why they are also known as off-center lock cylinders, the most common distances being 30x35mm, 30x40mm, 30x50mm and 40x50mm. Lastly, there are also half-cylinder lock cylinders , which are characterized by having a length half of the standard (30x10).
Profile of the cylinders
Lock cylinders can also be characterized by having different types of profiles . Thus, we can find pear-shaped lock cylinders, oval-shaped lock cylinders or round lock cylinders. Pear-shaped lock cylinders are the most common in all types of doors. As their name suggests, they have a shape similar to a pear (circular part and narrow bottom). There are also oval lock cylinders , although it is true that they are rare. Finally, there are also round lock cylinders , whose shape is almost cylindrical as a whole and are a little more common than oval lock cylinders.
Security cylinders
There are a set of cylinders that are characterized by offering greater security to the doors of the home. This is the case of antibumping cylinders as a type of high security cylinder. They are designed to prevent opening through the bumping method (door opening technique that consists of inserting the key and hitting the edge to damage the interior and open the door). This increase in security is often also used in armored door cylinders , since the material of the door is intended to guarantee additional security. If you want to increase the security of your doors, this type of cylinder offers the best guaranteed security.
At TiendaManilla we offer you the best door locks, to guarantee the best security for all your doors at home.