These padlocks have been developed to protect the lock in harsh environments. For these padlocks to be truly considered “Harsh Environment Padlocks” they must have interior protection also. They come in a variety of security levels from low entry level security all the way to high security with key control. Electronic locks are also being made in stainless steel.
To be a harsh environmental lock it should have:
- Stainless steel body (normally 303 stainless steel is used)
- Interior parts should be stainless or brass, in some cases diecast is used
- Lock cylinder should be medium to high security
- Key control should be a standard
- A patented padlock would enhance it
Above I mentioned medium to high security with key control. I believe if you are going to spend the money for stainless steel it should have key control with a quality lock cylinder. You are looking for a complete package when you are considering this type of padlock.
Cobra Lock offers a PUCK style padlock made of stainless steel with stainless steel internal components. This is a patented product that allows the end user to select the lock cylinder and therefor the security level. If the end user selects a high security patented lock cylinder, then the complete package will have patented protection. This is very important to achieve a high level of key control.
This type of lock is used in marine applications and where the lock will be subject to harsh and wet conditions. Any type of lock used in this environment should be tested for function on a regular basis to ensure that it is operational. This is especially true in applications of a high security nature.
There are aluminum locks that are also used in marine and wet applications. A stainless-steel padlock will provide a much stronger lock body that will be heavily resistant to physical attacks. It will also provide protection from rust and corrosion both externally and internally.
Finally, we come down to cost, yes this padlock will cost you more than one not made out of stainless steel. So, you must ask yourself a question. What are you trying to protect and how must is that worth to you? You could be protecting an asset or a person, how valuable is that to you.
Just one more thought, it can be cheaper to spend the money now than suffer an asset loss that can be much more costly.