Why Stainless Steel?
What is the point of a lock? To keep something or someone in or out of an area. Usually, in the detention world, this means keeping someone in their cell, cell pod, day room or keeping them out of restricted areas such as an armory, supply closets, administrative areas, or the greater outside world. Imagine, an inmate, who only have time on their hands, attempts to leave or gain access to a restricted area, what options do they have?
Break through the door: Next to impossible in modern detention settings that utilize reinforced hollow metal doors.
Break the hinges: Again, highly unlikely as these hinges are made of stainless steel. So, what is their best approach?
Targeting the lock: There are various certifications that ensure a lock is capable of withstanding day-to-day use and targeted abuse. Despite what one may think, picking is not the biggest threat to a lock’s security; instead, it is gaining access to and manipulating or jamming the lock’s internal systems. Which, from our experience, is commonly done with access through the latch/bolt hole(s) when the door is open. As a rule of thumb, the best protection for a detention lock is a closed door.
Key Terms and Concepts
Before we dive into the applied usages of mild steel v stainless steel, let us familiarize ourselves with some terminology to help explain the differences, scientifically.
Alloy – Metallic substance composed of two or more elements.
Composition – Percentage based measurement of what a metal is made of.
Ferrous Metal – An iron based metal, leading to more magnetism.
Mild Steel – Known for its ductility and malleability is an alloy composed of mostly iron with small amounts of carbon, manganese and other trace elements, with a relatively low tensile strength of 270-500 megapascals.
Non-Ferrous Metal – A non-iron based metal or alloy, typically nonmagnetic. Examples include copper, aluminum and lead.
Properties – Traits of a metal, such as corrosion resistance, strength, heat resistance, magnetism and more.
Stainless Steel – Corrosion resistant and stronger, with a tensile strength of 800 megapascals, is an alloy composed of iron, chromium, nickel, silicon and manganese.
Tensile Strength – The amount of force an item is able to withstand before breaking.
Why Shouldn't You Use Mild Steel in Detention Locks?
Now that we are into the practical applications, materials begin to matter. When using mild steel, like most manufacturers use in the detention lock industry, inmates are able to exploit the increased tolerances allowed by the softer material by attempting to shove items in the lock, to jam the internals. Another point of failure of a lock, outside of external factors, such as toothpicks and playing cards, is corrosion. Mild grade steel has less resistance to corrosion, making it more prone to rust. The comparative softness of mild steel continues to play a factor in potential failure of lock with the wear of materials with regular use and abuse. Corrosion is a complex and degenerative process that gets worse with time, leaving abrasive debris perpetually increasing wear.
There are processes, such as heat processing, electroplating and galvanization that can improve the properties of mild steel to make it more comparable to high-grade stainless steel. However, these processes are short-term solutions that are longer and dirtier to produce, to the point where dust from mild steel production can even induce corrosion on stainless steel.
Why Should You Use Stainless Steel in Detention Locks
When using stainless steel, locks are able to maintain the same high tolerances they left the factory with longer, meaning that inmates are less likely to be able to inhibit the function of the locks due to the materials being harder and therefore experience less wear, keeping operation smooth. Due to the corrosion resistance of stainless steel, internal parts are less likely to fail due to compounding wear.
Willoughby Locking Systems' Stainless Steel Detention Locks
Willoughby Locking Systems used 100% stainless steel in the construction of our locks. Our lock cases, mountings, castings, and all fasteners are made of stainless steel to not only protect from corrosion, but ensure Willoughby locks will wear less and operate at the highest level for years to come. Willoughby produces all of its products in a clean shop free of mild grade steels, guaranteeing processes associated with mild grade steel have not contaminated our stainless steel products.
Buying a Willoughby Stainless Steel Lock not just a purchase, it is an investment in unparalleled security, durability and peace of mind. Engineered to withstand the use and abuse associated with the detention and corrections industry, when you choose Willoughby for your facility, you can rest assured your facility is protected to the highest standards.