The shape of the key matchs the heights of the metal pins in the lock.
Basic Parts of a Lock
Cylinder
The part that turns to open the lock when the correct key is being used.
Keyhole
The opening in the cylinder where the key is inserted.
Pins
Small pieces of metal in different sizes, located inside the cylinder that line up when the right key is inserted.
When the pins line up the cylinder can turn to lock and unlock the door.
Bolt
A metal piece that moves in and out when turning the key to lock or unlock the door.
Strike Plate
A metal plate attached to the door frame exactly where the bolt goes in.
Here’s how a key works to operate a lock:
- Inside the lock mechanism there are small pieces of metal that called pins and their purpose is to block a wrong key from turning and opening the lock.
- When you insert the correct key into the lock the grooves on the key push the pins and line them up perfectly, allowing the lock to turn.
- Once the pins are lined up you can open or close the door.
