How our rigorous process means better products for you
From SlamLock to PedalBox, from HookLock to CATPro, our vehicle security products are designed to keep your cars, vans and fleets exactly where they should be – on the road and out of danger.
In order to do this effectively, our manufacturing HQ is kitted out with a whole range of dedicated testing rigs to put all our van security products through their paces before they go to our van manufacturer partners such as Ford, or into our online shop.
So what does that level of product testing look like in the real world?
We’re glad you asked – this article is intended as a guide to walk you through it, so you can get an idea of exactly the lengths we go to in protecting your livelihood with the very best in vehicle security products.
We have four test rigs and one testing machine:
Test rig 1: Rotational and fatigue testing
This rig is designed to imitate the action of rotating the lock – with either a single cycle large rotation to force the lock out of the door, or a smaller, but more consistent, ‘wiggling’ motion.
This whole process is monitored through a torque transducer, which measures how much rotational force the product is being subjected to. This shows us clearly the point at which the material gives up and gives way, meaning we can be certain our products hit the mark and stand their ground – even up against the strongest tests!
Test rig 2: The compression test
This rig is a serious bit of kit, and allows us to simulate the action of pushing on any one of our van security locks, depending on how we mount the lock in the housing. We use a 50-tonne hydraulic ram to apply force to the lock until it finally breaks.
This might seem an over-the-top use of brute force, but when it comes to your security, we can’t be too careful. The information we get is then plotted on a graph so we can see clearly that our locks come up to scratch.
Test rig 3: The pull attack
Test rig 3 is by far the most advanced test rig we have. Its hydraulic cylinders apply a load to a chain, which is then attached to one of our vehicle security locks to imitate an attack. We’re able to adjust the angle of attack by five degrees at a time, so we can see whether changing the angle of attack has a more or less impact on the locking mechanism and make sure you’re covered in all circumstances.
We have a range of add-ons to the outside of rig which mean we can test anything from doors to centre consoles – whatever the size. In all tests, we attach a load cell to the chain to measure the forces we’re placing the lock, cylinder, or mechanism under.
This load cell displays all the information we need to see clearly the stress points on each tested part and make sure they’re going to give you the protection you need.
Test rig 4: The specialist
This rig is our most specialised. Criminals up and down the UK have a preference for trying to force vehicle locks using a screwdriver along with brute force. This specialist rig has been specifically designed to simulate exactly this type of attack, meaning we get to see how our vehicle security products stack up so they won’t let you down. From specialised van locks, to protective plates and guards, we make sure we’re giving you the strength you need.
Last but not least… our cycle testing machine
Of course, vehicle security doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, it’s best to keep it simple. The final piece of the puzzle is our cycle testing machine. Used to test keys, it pushes and retracts the key from a lock mechanism approximately 100,000 times - or until something binds up and goes wrong.
The result? We know exactly what the life expectancy of our vehicle security locks and keys are, which means we can offer you peace of mind.
And that really is a result.
To see the results for yourself, take a look at our range of vehicle security products, including the HookLock, SlamLock and many, many more – all tested to make sure you get the very best, every time.
