Articles on Padlocks

Article 1 : History

Article 2 : Parts

Article 3 : Choosing A Padlock

History

The history of the padlock finds its roots in ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman cultures. As trade, commerce and the need to protect and secure valuables became commonplace, the evolution of the padlock and its convenient portability reflected this way of life; it is believed that the first padlocks were likely used for commerce-related travel to prevent theft along frequented trade routes and waterways. Use of padlocks for security purposes was a far cry from the primitive protective techniques in India wherein wooden chests containing valuables were submerged in crocodile laden pools.

The first mechanical locks that emerged approximately 4,000 years ago of a crude, wood-constructed design were the predecessors of what we know now as a pin and tumbler lock; the locks contained moveable pins that were operated by a wooden key whose prongs raised them to release the bolt. Around 900 AD all-metal locks appeared on the radar, their design being attributed to English craftsmanship. It wasn’t until between the 14th and 17th centuries that craftsmanship of locksmiths and metal workers noticeably evolved, vastly improving the aesthetics of the basic push-key lock. Becoming more proficient in their craft, locksmiths and metal workers were invited to make locks and keys for the royal courts, churches and cathedrals of Europe. Whether the locks were of minute or sizeable stature the craftsmen excelled in creating elaborate and highly detailed ornamentation. Often expressing a religious theme, the locks also ran the gamut of encompassing a variety of geometric and even animal shapes. Eventually, in order to further develop convenience and eliminate the need for keys, combination locks (or “letter locks”) were developed.

The advancement of security measures goes hand in hand with the progression of potential vandals’ methods to antagonistically overcome this security. Thus the construction, design, and impenetrability of padlocks continue to evolve to ensure essential, efficient and successful security.

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Parts

To better understand the security a padlock provides and the level of security you will need is to understand the padlock’s basic components and construction. The body, shackle and locking mechanism are the three main components of a padlock. The body contains the locking mechanism and it is the body into which the shackle slides to lock the padlock. Generally U-shaped, the shackle slides through that which it is securing (a locker, cashbox, security chain, gate, garage, etc.) and is inserted into the body of the padlock; though it is rare, shackles can also be flexible (comprised of cable), circular or straight.

The locking mechanism within the body is either integrated or modular. With integrated locking, a key is generally required to not only unlock but also lock the padlock, integrating the padlock’s shackle with the tumblers within the body; this is achieved by either the key rotating a disk into a notch on the shackle or causing the bolt that secures the shackle to enter the tumblers. Modular locking mechanisms do not require a key to lock and employ a plug within the cylinder that turns, allowing a mechanism (such as ball bearings) to retract from notches cut into the shackle.

Though the outer materials of a lock (the shackle and body) are important to consider when choosing a lock that will be exposed to extreme elements, it is essential to know the materials of which the inner parts of the lock are constructed, too, to ensure that they will be equally durable and withstand extreme temperatures and moisture.

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Choosing A Padlock

Depending on the intended use of the padlock, it is imperative to take into consideration the material, size and construction of the padlock. Whether locking a security chain on a bicycle, securely closing a cashbox, or protecting the contents of a garden shed, padlocks offer an affordable and easily transportable means of security in both domestic and business settings.

Just as there are varied uses for padlocks, there are varied materials of which the locks are constructed. In using padlocks out of doors in increment weather conditions or where the lock will be exposed to moisture, brass is an excellent material for resisting such exposure. However, brass is considered to be a softer metal and is more easily tampered with than the more durable solid or alloyed steel. Though steel or alloy are harder than brass, the elements are not as forgiving with them and rust may set in earlier than with a brass product. In order to protect from such an assault on the quality of the product, there are plastic coverings made to protect the locks from the elements and are highly recommended.

Apart from the weather, locks should also obviously be able to strongly stand against the potential threat of theft and thus, in high security situations, harder metals are preferred. In regard to keyed locks, the more notches cut into a key and its related lock, the more difficult the lock is to pick. If a series of locks is going to be used in one domestic or business setting the buyer may want to consider keyed-alike padlocks; this means simply that the locks will all open with the same key, eliminating the need for multiple keys.

Though combination locks conveniently eliminate the need of a key, they also are more prone to vandalism and tampering and should be reserved for low-security situations.

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