1. Can I use any magnet to open the lock?
No. What makes our magnetic cam lock so unique is that there are multiple magnets inside it, and in order to unlock, each of these magnets needs to be driven by magnets in the key. The orientation and location of each of these magnets is what will create an unlocking condition. So no matter what magnet you use; whether it is large, small, strong or weak, it will not create the unlocking conditions needed for the lock to open. The magnetic key that is keyed to a specific lock is the only one that will work.
2. How many combinations can there be with only two polarities on magnets?
More than 1,500 magnetic combinations. We do not use only the polarity of the magnets to create locking combinations. Their positioning and orientation is what allows to use each magnet for many different combinations.
3. Will the magnets in the key/lock lose strength over time?
Very little. Neodymium magnets are the strongest and most permanent magnets known to man. If they are not overheated or physically damaged, neodymium magnets will lose less than 1% of their strength over 10 years – not enough for you to notice unless you have very sensitive measuring equipment. They won’t even lose their strength if they are held in repelling or attracting positions with other magnets over long periods of time.
4. How can I get more keys?
All magnetic cam lock keys look identical. So duplication/copying of these keys is impossible. However, locksmiths are able to “build” new keys from a code, using a keying kit containing all the necessary parts to do so. No special equipment is required. Our locks come with a label that contains a key code, as well as a combination code. The combination code is the magnetic equivalent of the bitting of a standard key, or pinning of a mechanical pin cylinder. Using this code, a trained locksmith can easily and quickly put a new key together, even on-site!
5. Can the magnets be de-magnetized?
Rare Earth magnets have a high resistance to demagnetization, unlike most other types of magnets. They will not lose their magnetization around other magnets or if dropped. They will, however, begin to lose strength if heated beyond their operating temperature, which is 176 °F (80 °C) for the base grade. They will lose all their strength if heated above 590°F (310°C). So for most of your applications, you have nothing to worry about. If you have an application that is close to this operating temperature, contact us. Higher grades of magnets are available to withstand more heat without losing strength.
6. Can the Magnetic Cam Lock be master keyed?
Unfortunately, we cannot offer master keying with this technology. If this is something you absolutely need, please let us know. We are working on making this and all of our products as versatile as possible.
