A door armature is a specific component used in electronic door locking systems, particularly electromagnetic locks. Based on the provided reference, a door armature is fundamentally a metal plate that attaches to the door and aligns with the magnet.
Understanding the Door Armature Plate
In the context of an electromagnetic lock (often called a "maglock"), the system consists of two primary parts: the electromagnet and the armature plate. While the electromagnet is typically mounted on the door frame, the armature plate attaches to the door itself.
Function and Role
The door armature acts as the receptive surface for the magnetic field generated by the electromagnet. When the electromagnet is energized (power is supplied), it creates a powerful magnetic force. This force strongly attracts the ferromagnetic metal plate attached to the door, pulling it against the electromagnet and thereby holding the door securely closed.
How it Works with an Electromagnet
Here's a simple breakdown of the interaction:
- Installation: The armature plate is mounted on the door using a secure method (often involving special bolts) to withstand significant pull force. The electromagnet is mounted on the corresponding part of the frame.
- Locking: When the system is activated (e.g., power is on), the electromagnet becomes magnetized.
- Holding: The magnetic force pulls the door armature plate towards the electromagnet, creating a strong bond that prevents the door from being opened. The strength of this bond is the lock's holding force, measured in pounds or kilograms.
- Unlocking: When power to the electromagnet is cut, the magnetic field collapses, releasing the attraction to the armature plate and allowing the door to be opened.
Key Characteristics of a Door Armature
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | Usually made of a highly permeable, ferromagnetic metal like steel. |
| Attachment | Fixed rigidly to the door leaf, often with hardware designed to prevent tampering. |
| Alignment | Designed to align precisely with the face of the electromagnet on the frame. |
| Durability | Built to withstand significant physical force and repeated use. |
Practical Considerations
Proper installation of the door armature is critical. It must be perfectly aligned with the electromagnet face to achieve the maximum rated holding force. Any gap or misalignment will reduce the lock's security. The armature often includes rubber washers or mounting methods that allow for slight pivoting to ensure full contact with the electromagnet face even if the door or frame shifts slightly over time.
In summary, a door armature is the essential metal plate installed on a door that forms the crucial link with an electromagnet on the frame to create a secure locking mechanism.
