Magnetic Door Locks

Magnetic door locks (commonly referred to as electromagnetic or EM locks) are access control devices that use an electrically energised magnet to secure a door by attracting an armature plate mounted on the door leaf. When power is applied, the magnetic field creates a holding force that keeps the door closed; when power is removed, the lock releases.

These locks are widely used in domestic, commercial, and institutional applications where controlled access and integration with electronic security systems are required. Magnetic door holders (which are distinct devices used to hold fire doors open) are also used in environments such as schools and hospitals as part of fire safety system.

RS Singapore supplies magnetic locks for both single and double doors in various supply voltages and holding force ratings to suit different installation and security requirements.

Operating Principles of Magnetic Door Locks

Understanding how magnetic door locks function helps ensure correct specification, installation, and integration with your access control system. The operating principles include:

• Electromagnetic Coil and Holding Force: Magnetic door locks use an electromagnetic coil to create a magnetic field when powered, which holds a metal armature plate attached to the door. The strength of the lock depends on full surface contact and is typically rated by its holding force.
• Fail-Safe Operation: Most electromagnetic locks are fail-safe, meaning they automatically unlock when power is cut. This makes them suitable for emergency exits and fire safety compliance in commercial buildings.
• Minimal Mechanical Wear: Because there are no moving locking parts, magnetic locks experience less mechanical wear compared to traditional locks. This makes them reliable for high-use doors with frequent opening and closing.
• Alignment and Surface Contact: The lock works through direct surface contact, so proper alignment between the magnet and armature plate is essential. Poor installation or gaps between surfaces can reduce holding performance.
• Access Control Integration: Magnetic locks are usually part of an access control system, where power is controlled by devices such as keypads, card readers, or building management systems. This allows controlled entry and centralised monitoring.

Types of Magnetic Lock for Doors

Magnetic door locks are available in several configurations to suit different door types, installation methods, and security requirements. Here is an overview of the main types available:

Surface Mounted

Surface-mounted magnetic door locks are fitted directly onto the face of the door frame with the armature plate fixed to the door, making them straightforward to install without requiring modifications to the door structure. They are a practical choice for retrofitting security to existing doors in commercial and residential settings.

Shear Locks

Shear locks are installed within the door frame and door, with holding force applied through a shear alignment mechanism rather than direct pull force. This concealed installation provides a cleaner aesthetic and increases the lock's resistance to tampering, making shear locks well-suited to high-security and architectural applications.

Double Door Locks

Double-door magnetic locks are designed to secure two-leaf door configurations, typically using either dual magnets or a single unit with extended mounting brackets. They are commonly used in commercial entrances, lobbies, and access-controlled corridors, where wide openings require consistent, reliable security across the full door width.

Gate Locks

Gate locks are weatherproofed magnetic locks designed for outdoor use on pedestrian gates, car park barriers, and perimeter access points. Built to withstand exposure to moisture, dust, and temperature variation, they provide robust access control in external environments where standard indoor locks would deteriorate. Many gate lock models incorporate neodymium magnets to deliver high holding force in a compact form factor, supporting workplace safety in environments where unauthorised access must be reliably prevented.

Electromagnetic Locks

Electromagnetic locks, also known as EM locks, use an electrically energised coil to generate a strong magnetic holding force between the lock body and an armature plate. They are a widely used choice across commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings where fail-safe or fail-secure access control is required as part of a broader security system.

Applications of EM Locks

Electromagnetic door locks and electric magnetic door lock systems are used across a wide range of settings, wherever controlled, reliable access is essential. Common applications include:

• Commercial Buildings: Electromagnetic locks are widely installed in office buildings, retail premises, and mixed-use developments to control access to entrances, stairwells, and restricted areas, integrating with card readers, keypads, and building management systems.
• Hospitals: Magnetic door locks support access control across clinical and restricted zones, helping to manage patient flow, secure pharmaceutical storage areas, and protect sensitive departments while allowing authorised staff rapid entry. They are often combined with fire alarm systems to ensure automatic release during emergencies.
• Data Centres: Heavy-duty magnetic door locks are used to secure server rooms and data facilities where unauthorised access poses a significant operational and compliance risk. High holding-force locks ensure that access is tightly controlled at all entry points.
• Educational Institutions: Schools and universities use magnetic locks for doors to manage access across campuses, securing classrooms, laboratories, and administrative areas while supporting lockdown procedures when required.
• Residential Units: Electric magnetic door lock systems are increasingly used in apartment buildings and gated residential developments, providing keyless, remotely controlled access for residents while maintaining a high level of entry security.

Key Considerations When Choosing an Electromagnetic Door Lock

Selecting the right electromagnetic door lock depends on the door type, security requirements, and the environment in which it will be installed. Consider these five key factors:

• Holding Force: The holding force of a magnetic lock, measured in kilograms or pounds, must be matched to door size, usage frequency, and security level. Light-duty locks suit internal residential doors, while heavy-duty magnetic door locks are required for high-traffic commercial or restricted-access environments.
• Fail-Safe vs Fail-Secure: Most electromagnetic locks are inherently fail-safe, meaning they release when power is lost to allow safe egress in emergencies. Fail-secure functionality is typically achieved using alternative locking mechanisms rather than standard EM locks.
• Door Configuration: Consider whether the installation involves a single door, a double door, or a gate, as each requires a specific lock type and mounting arrangement to ensure proper alignment and consistent holding performance.
• Holding Force Rating: The holding force, usually specified in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lbs), defines the maximum load the lock can resist before separation occurs under ideal conditions. Buyers should account for real-world factors such as door size, wind load, user force, and installation quality, and select a higher-rated lock than the minimum requirement for safety margins.
• Operating Voltage and Current Draw: Magnetic locks commonly operate on 12V DC or 24V DC power supplies, with current consumption varying depending on holding force and design efficiency. It is important to verify compatibility with existing power supplies and access control systems, particularly in multi-door installations where cumulative current load must be managed.
• Environmental Conditions: For outdoor or high-humidity installations, select a lock with an appropriate ingress protection rating to ensure reliable performance against moisture, dust, and temperature extremes over its service life.
• Mounting Configuration and Compatibility: The physical design of the lock must match the door type (e.g. inward-opening, outward-opening, glass, metal, or wooden doors), often requiring additional mounting accessories. Compatibility with brackets, spacers, and armature plate configurations should also be assessed to avoid installation constraints.

Trusted Magnetic Door Lock Manufacturer & Supplier in Singapore

RS Singapore is your trusted source for magnetic door locks. We stock an extensive range from industry leaders like Mecalectro, Eaton, and our ownRS PRO line. Our selection spans a range of holding forces, failure modes, and sizes, at competitive prices, ensuring you find the perfect magnetic lock for your door.

We also carry other security and ironmongery products, such as door seals and door hinges, to meet all your door hardware requirements. Order your magnetic door locks and other accessories online today.

For more details on our ordering process, delivery services, and delivery fees, please refer to ourDelivery Page. If you need assistance selecting the right EM lock for your application, our expert team is ready to provide personalisedadvice and support.