How does an Open Lockout Kit work on a mortise lock?

Mortise locks are widely used in commercial and residential settings due to their durability and security. However, there are times when access needs to be gained without the key, such as during emergencies or lockouts. This is where an Open Lockout Kit comes in handy. As a supplier of high - quality Open Lockout Kits, I'll explain in detail how these kits work on mortise locks.

Understanding Mortise Locks

Before delving into how the Open Lockout Kit functions, it's essential to understand the basic structure of a mortise lock. A mortise lock is a type of lock that is installed in a pocket, or mortise, that is cut into the edge of a door. It typically consists of a lock body, a latch or bolt, and a keyway. The lock body contains the locking mechanism, which is activated by inserting and turning a key in the keyway. The latch or bolt extends into the door frame to secure the door.

Components of an Open Lockout Kit

An Open Lockout Kit usually contains a variety of tools designed to gain access to different types of locks, including mortise locks. Some common tools in these kits are pick sets, tension wrenches, and bypass tools.

Pick sets are used to manipulate the pins inside the lock cylinder. These pins are what prevent the lock from turning without the correct key. Tension wrenches are used to apply torque to the lock cylinder, which is necessary for the pins to be set correctly. Bypass tools, on the other hand, are designed to bypass the locking mechanism altogether in some cases.

How the Open Lockout Kit Works on Mortise Locks

Initial Assessment
The first step when using an Open Lockout Kit on a mortise lock is to assess the situation. This involves examining the lock to determine its type, make, and model. Different mortise locks may have different security features and locking mechanisms, so it's important to have a clear understanding of what you're dealing with. For example, some high - security mortise locks may have anti - pick pins or other advanced features that require more specialized tools and techniques.
Applying Tension
Once the assessment is complete, the next step is to insert a tension wrench into the keyway of the mortise lock. The tension wrench is used to apply a slight amount of rotational force to the lock cylinder. This force is crucial because it helps to hold the pins in place once they are set. The amount of tension applied needs to be carefully adjusted, as too much or too little can make it difficult to pick the lock.
Picking the Pins
After applying tension, the pick tools from the Open Lockout Kit are used to manipulate the pins inside the lock cylinder. Mortise locks typically have a series of pins, usually consisting of driver pins and key pins. The goal is to align the shear line between the driver pins and the key pins. When all the pins are properly aligned at the shear line, the lock cylinder can be turned, and the lock can be opened.
The pick tools are inserted into the keyway and used to lift each pin until it reaches the correct position. This process requires patience and skill, as each pin needs to be set individually. Some experienced locksmiths may use a technique called "raking," where the pick tool is quickly moved up and down in the keyway to set multiple pins at once. However, this technique is more suitable for less - secure locks.
Bypassing the Lock (if possible)
In some cases, it may be possible to bypass the locking mechanism of a mortise lock using the bypass tools in the Open Lockout Kit. For example, if the lock has a vulnerable area or a design flaw, a bypass tool can be used to manipulate the lock from the outside without having to pick the pins. This method is often quicker and more efficient than traditional picking, but it requires a good understanding of the lock's structure.

Applications of Open Lockout Kits on Mortise Locks

Emergency Situations
In emergency situations, such as when someone is locked inside a building or a room, an Open Lockout Kit can be used to quickly gain access. Firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and locksmiths often carry these kits to handle such situations. For example, if a person is trapped in a room with a mortise - locked door during a fire, the emergency responders can use the kit to open the door and rescue the person.
Lockout Services
Locksmiths use Open Lockout Kits on a daily basis to provide lockout services to their customers. Whether it's a residential or commercial lockout, these kits allow locksmiths to open mortise locks without causing damage to the door or the lock. This is especially important for commercial properties, where a damaged lock can disrupt business operations.

Advantages of Our Open Lockout Kits

As a supplier of Open Lockout Kits, we offer several advantages to our customers. Our kits are made from high - quality materials, ensuring durability and reliability. The tools in our kits are carefully selected and designed to work effectively on a wide range of mortise locks.

We also provide detailed instructions and training materials with our kits, so even novice users can learn how to use them properly. Additionally, our kits are regularly updated to keep up with the latest advancements in lock technology, ensuring that they can handle the most secure mortise locks on the market.

Related Products

If you're interested in other types of lockout kits, we also offer Safety Lockout Padlock Kit, Electrical Lockout Device Kit, and Safety Valve Lockout Kit. These kits are designed to provide safety and security in different industrial and commercial settings.

Contact Us for Purchase and Consultation

If you're in the market for an Open Lockout Kit or have any questions about how these kits work on mortise locks, we encourage you to contact us. Our team of experts is ready to assist you with your needs, whether it's choosing the right kit for your specific requirements or providing technical support.