When selecting magnetic locks for doors, one of the most important specifications to understand is holding force. The holding force determines how much pressure the electromagnetic lock can resist before the door opens.

Choosing the correct strength is essential for both security and functionality. Too little magnetic force may allow doors to be forced open, while too much may be unnecessary for lighter interior applications.

Magnetic locks are widely used in access control systems because they are reliable, durable, and have no moving parts, reducing wear and maintenance. Understanding how holding forces work will help you select the right solution for your facility.

If you're exploring available options, you can browse our full selection of
magnetic locks, including specialized models for both interior and exterior environments.

What Is Holding Force in a Magnetic Lock?

Holding force refers to the amount of pressure required to separate the magnet from the armature plate once the lock is energized.

Most electromagnetic locks are rated in pounds of holding force, commonly:

• 600 lbs
• 1200 lbs
• 1500 lbs or more for specialized applications

When electricity flows through the electromagnet mounted to the door frame, it creates a powerful magnetic force that bonds to the armature plate mounted on the door. Because these locks rely purely on magnetism and contain no mechanical moving parts, they offer long-term durability and consistent performance.

Magnetic locks are also considered fail safe, meaning the lock releases when power is lost. This is a critical safety feature required in many building codes and fire regulations.

Common Holding Force Ratings Explained

600 lb Magnetic Locks

600-pound maglocks are typically used for:

• Interior doors
• Office spaces
• Low-risk areas
• Single door access points

They provide enough security for many controlled environments while maintaining efficient power usage.

These are commonly installed in commercial offices or interior access control systems where doors do not experience high levels of physical force.

You can find options designed specifically for interior environments in our
Indoor Magnetic Locks collection.

1200 lb Magnetic Locks

1200-pound holding force locks are considered the industry standard for high-security applications.

They are commonly used on:

• Commercial entrances
• High-traffic doors
• Industrial facilities
• Healthcare buildings
• Schools and universities

These stronger locks resist forced entry attempts and provide an additional layer of protection for buildings requiring higher security.

For outdoor environments exposed to weather or heavy use, explore our
Outdoor Magnetic Locks.

Factors That Affect the Holding Force You Need

Choosing the right holding force depends on several factors beyond just the door itself.

Door Type

Heavy steel or reinforced doors require stronger electromagnetic locks compared to lightweight aluminum or wooden doors.

Door Location

Exterior doors typically need higher holding force due to increased exposure to forced entry attempts.

Traffic Levels

High-traffic doors may require stronger locks to maintain reliable performance under constant use.

Security Requirements

Facilities such as hospitals, government buildings, and industrial facilities typically install higher-rated magnetic locks for additional protection.

Integration with Access Control Systems

Maglocks often work together with:

• Card readers
• Keypads
• Motion sensors
• Request-to-exit buttons

Your access control system design may influence the holding force required.

Single Door vs Double Door Applications

Holding force requirements can also depend on whether you're securing a single door or double door entry.

For double doors, installers may use:

• Two separate maglocks
• A double-door electromagnetic lock system
• Coordinated access control hardware

Proper installation ensures the magnetic force distributes correctly across both doors.

Why Magnetic Locks Are Popular in Access Control Systems

Magnetic locks remain a preferred solution for many security professionals because they offer several advantages:

• No moving parts, reducing mechanical failure
• Long operational lifespan
• Easy integration with electronic security systems
• Reliable fail-safe operation for safety compliance
• Strong holding forces for commercial security

These characteristics make electromagnetic locks especially suitable for modern buildings where access control and automation are essential.

Choosing the Right Magnetic Lock

Selecting the correct maglock ultimately comes down to balancing security, door type, and environment.

In general:

• 600 lb locks are suitable for interior doors
• 1200 lb locks are ideal for exterior or high-security applications
• Higher ratings may be needed for specialized facilities

Understanding these differences ensures your access control system performs reliably while meeting safety requirements.

If you're evaluating options for your next installation, explore our complete selection of
magnetic locks designed for commercial, industrial, and access control applications.