Relocker
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A relocker, or more properly a relocking device is an automatic locking device that is activated during an attempted burglary of a safe or vault door. These devices will still keep a safe or vault locked even if the lock is defeated or damaged. There are two classes of relocking devices: internal and external.
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[edit] Internal Relocking Devices
These relocking devices are an integral part of the combination lock itself designed to activate if the dial spindle is punched through. Usually the relocker consists of a spring loaded lever or plunger that engages the bolt when the back cover is dislodged from the lock case. Some combination locks also are equipped with a separate internal thermal relocker that activates in event of a torch attack. Nearly all safes made after World War II have internal relockers in their combination locks.
[edit] External Relocking Devices
These are independent mechanisms designed to block the operation of the boltwork, or an independent, auxiliary boltwork that consists of a spring-loaded bolt or plunger held in check by a bracket or cable that is attached to the lock case or to a plate of glass in front of the lock. These 'booby traps' are designed to maintain the locked state of the safe even if the lock itself is destroyed.
[edit] Thermal Relocking Devices
Designed as a defense against torch attacks, these are simply external relockers equipped with a fusible link designed to melt and release the relocking device if the internal temperature inside the door exceeds a certain temperature (usually 65ยบ C), as would happen in a torch attack.
[edit] Glass Relocking Devices
A glass relocker is a piece of tempered glass mounted between the safe door and the combination lock. It has wires attached to the edges. These wires lead to randomly located, spring-loaded bolts. If an attempt is made to penetrate the safe, the drill or torch breaks the glass, releasing the bolts. These bolts block the retraction of the main locking bolts. To drill a safe with a glass relocker side, top or rear drilling may be necessary.
