6 Tips for Choosing the Best IFAM Security Padlock

Choosing the right security lock for our needs may seem like a simple task, but when we are faced with this choice for the first time, several questions often arise. And it is that there are many places of application, materials or characteristics from which we can choose.

We are going to propose 6 essential tips from IFAM.

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Evaluate the importance of the assets you want to protect

The reason for this question is that, depending on the answer, you are going to look for a lock that has a higher or lower level of security. And said level will vary by the following criteria:

Body and bow material. Steel, for example, is often used in high-security padlocks. Especially if it has received cementing or hardening treatments. However, padlocks with a medium security level will use materials such as brass, zinc alloy, stainless steel or aluminum.
Padlock size. Generally, the larger the lock, the more secure it is. It has more resistance to blows and sawing.
Arch closure. Normally it consists of a double hitch with springs. However, steel balls can be used in those padlocks that need more security. They will be much more difficult to open due to the force exerted on the joint between the body and the bow.
Lock. The key ones are usually more difficult to break than the serreta ones.
Key retention. If you have this system, it means that the key will remain in the lock when the lock is open.

Measure the space inside the hitch where the lock will be

It may seem obvious, but a padlock is of little use if it turns out that its bow is thicker than the ring where it is going to be located.

If the circumstance occurs that the space of the hitch is not adequate, it can always be replaced by a padlock holder.

In this way, it can be tailored to allow for the shackle thickness of the lock that is needed.

Find the proper arc length

In the same way that we recommend measuring the interior space of a hitch, it is also convenient to think about whether it is in a point of easy access to open the lock.

For example, in tight spaces a long or extra-long bow may be more useful, while in larger spaces a short one may fit well.

It is also possible to use one whose length is adaptable.

Interiors or exteriors?

Determining this aspect is important for the padlock material. If it is going to be outdoors, it is recommended to opt for those that are resistant to corrosion. For example, those made of stainless steel are the ones that best withstand the effect of time. Or, on a smaller scale, brass with a nickel plating.

In the event that the padlock is going to be indoors, then we can opt for the rest of the usual materials, since they will guarantee good durability.

Choose between key or combination lock

If you need extra security, then you should opt for padlocks that lock with a key.

If you opt for convenience, then the best option is the combination lock. In addition, you avoid the risk of losing the key. Those with three or four reels, with ten digits each, are very common, which is the equivalent of a thousand combinations in the first and ten thousand combinations in the second.

If we want to go further, we should also mention that there are padlocks that use both methods or even open with a magnetic key.

Decide between keyed alike, keyed alike or mastered locks

Unequal keys. It is the most demanded modality. Each lock can only be opened with the keys supplied in its box (unless copies are made). It is very common because usually only one padlock is needed and the number of people who need to handle it is small.
Keys alike. Suppose we need several padlocks placed at points close to each other. The logical thing is not to have to change the key every time we want to open or close them.
Tampered padlocks. They are usually used in facilities or buildings where many padlocks are needed, and also, with various hierarchies in terms of access levels. For these cases, he would open a master key for everyone and then different types of keys depending on the level of each lock.

Request IFAM security padlocks from the Rodavigo website

As we have updated the IFAM digital catalogue on our website, it is a good opportunity to request any type of padlock, lock or security element.

It is also possible to consult the IFAM PDF catalogue on our B2B portal, where you can expand the technical information on the different security devices of this manufacturer.

For any questions or comments, remember that we are available through our contact form, email and phone number.