Construction and Mechanism
– Combination padlocks are made with a metal can and three tumblers connected to a front dial.
– Mechanism is similar to combination locks used in safes.
– Correct combination aligns notches on tumblers, allowing the latch to release the shackle.
– Some padlocks have a laminated body made of riveted metal plates.
Shackle Material
– Most padlocks have a hardened steel shackle.
– Expensive padlocks may have boron alloy steels for increased cutting resistance.
– Inexpensive padlocks usually have a shackle made of ordinary steel.
– Corrosion-resistant padlocks have a brass or stainless steel shackle.
– Material stamped on the shackle indicates its composition (e.g., HARDENED or BORON ALLOY).
Shackle Plating
– Alloy steel shackles are plated with metals like nickel or chrome to prevent rust.
– The body of the padlock is also often plated.
– Brass and stainless steel padlocks may not require plating but are sometimes plated for aesthetic purposes.
– Plating helps protect the shackle and body from corrosion.
– Brass and stainless steel padlocks have low hardness and are easily cut with bolt-cutters.
Stamp on Shackle
– The stamp on the shackle indicates the material it is made of.
– Common stamps include ‘Hardened’ for hardened steel (most common) and ‘Case hard’ for older padlocks.
– ‘Stainless’ indicates a stainless steel shackle.
– ‘Boron alloy’ denotes a shackle made of boron alloy steel.
– ‘Boron carbide’ is found on Master Lock Magnum padlocks.
Outdoor Use
– Combination padlocks are not recommended for outdoor use.
– Exposure to rainwater can cause them to rust.
– Rusting compromises the functionality and security of the padlock.
– Outdoor padlocks should have corrosion-resistant materials like brass or stainless steel.
– Brass and stainless steel padlocks are less prone to rusting.Sources: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Padlock
