| Tips For Troubleshooting Electromagnetic Locks |
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 In order for an Electromagnetic Lock to operate correctly there are several things to consider. As with any electrical product, power is always important. The vast majority of Electro-Magnetic locks require clean, stable DC voltage. This is generally obtained from a filtered, regulated power supply, as these are often virtually free from the noise associated with AC voltage or "ripple". A suitable supply should also have a means of adjusting the output voltage to allow the installer to ensure the connected devices are receiving appropriate voltage according to their specifications. A lock connected to an improperly filtered power supply can overheat, and often will vibrate, enough to hum or buzz when locked. Each of these factors can drastically reduce the holding force of the lock.
A common concern with Electro-Magnetic locks is the condition of the lock bonding surfaces. The surface of the lock and the armature plate to which it bonds should be smooth and clean. Many units are plated and then polished to ensure a good solid bond when mated correctly. Double check both of these surfaces to make certain they can perform correctly. Something as seemingly trivial as a piece of cellophane tape on the surface of the lock can seriously affect the holding force.
The last thing is perhaps the most important of all, the proper alignment of the armature plate. The armature plate mounted on the surface of the door is the only thing that an electromagnetic lock has to bond to when locked. Each manufacturer has a slightly different method of mounting an armature plate but they all have one thing in common. Armatures are all designed to move freely on the door when installed. These plates should pivot on some sort of mounting hardware and be easy to push with just the strength of one hand. This free range of motion is left in the installation to ensure that the maximum amount of surface area comes in contact with the surface of the magnet. If the plate is too stiff and cannot move freely it may not seat properly with the magnet. When the lock is activated the armature should be pulled tightly to the magnets surface such that even the air between them is pressed out, forming a complete bond. If the plate only partially comes in contact with the magnet, the holding force may be reduced enough to seem non-existent.
Whatever the rated holding force of an electromagnetic lock may be it should not be able to hold a screwdriver or a pair of pliers such that it cannot be easily removed. This is a useful way to troubleshoot lock problems. If the lock is capable of holding a screwdriver, even a little, it is most likely that it is working perfectly and any problems lie with the alignment of the armature. If this is the case this can generally be remedied by loosening the armature in small amounts until the door locks properly.
NOTE: While an armature plate needs to be capable of movement when installed it should not be dangerously loose. Follow the manufacturers instructions closely to be certain the product is installed properly.
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Tips For Troubleshooting Electromagnetic Locks