Electric Strikes

Electric Strikes

Electric strikes are an integral part of modern access control systems, providing secure, efficient, and convenient door locking solutions for a wide range of applications. Designed to work in conjunction with various locking devices—such as mortice locks, cylindrical locks, and rim latches—electric strikes replace the fixed strike plate on a door frame, allowing the door to be opened electronically without manually retracting the latch. John Barnes Group supplies premium-quality electric strikes from trusted brands Dormakaba and Lockwood, known for their reliability, compliance, and suitability for both residential and commercial installations.

Electric strikes are widely used in office buildings, schools, healthcare facilities, apartment complexes, and industrial environments, offering seamless integration with card readers, keypads, intercoms, and other access control devices. Buy Electric Strikes online today from the John Barnes online shop!

What Are Electric Strikes?

An electric strike is an electromechanical door release mechanism fitted into the door frame. When activated via an access control signal, the strike releases its keeper, allowing the door to be pushed or pulled open without the need to manually turn the door handle. Electric strikes can be fail-safe or fail-secure, depending on the operational requirements.

• Fail-Safe (Power to Lock): Unlocked when power is off, providing free access during power failures—commonly used for emergency egress.

• Fail-Secure (Power to Open): Locked when power is off, maintaining security in the event of power loss—ideal for high-security areas.

Types of Electric Strikes

Buy Standard (Non-Monitored) Electric Strikes online

Basic models that release upon receiving an activation signal, without door position monitoring.

Use cases:

• Internal office doors

• Residential access gates

• Light commercial doors

Buy Monitored Electric Strikes online

Include built-in switches to monitor latch and door position, allowing integration with security systems for real-time status reporting.

Use cases:

• Commercial offices

• Data centres

• High-security facilities

Buy Heavy-Duty Electric Strikes online

Engineered for doors subject to high usage and force, these strikes are built from reinforced materials and withstand higher holding forces.

Use cases:

• Correctional facilities

• Stadiums and arenas

• High-traffic public buildings

Buy Fire-Rated Electric Strikes online

Tested to meet AS1530.4 fire-resistance standards, ensuring compatibility with fire-rated door assemblies.

Use cases:

• Fire egress routes

• Hospitals

• Multi-storey buildings

Buy Weather-Resistant Electric Strikes online

Sealed against dust and moisture, suitable for external gates and doors exposed to harsh conditions.

Use cases:

• Perimeter gates

• Industrial facilities

• Marine and coastal environments

Key Features and Specifications

• Operation: Fail-safe or fail-secure, field-selectable on some models

• Voltage: 12V or 24V DC (some models support AC)

• Holding Force: Ranges from 300kg to over 1000kg depending on application

• Monitoring: Optional latch and door position switches

• Compliance: Fire-rated, accessibility-compliant models available

• Finish Options: Stainless steel faceplates, powder-coated finishes, or architectural plating

Australian Standards and Compliance

Electric strikes supplied by John Barnes Group meet strict local regulations:

• AS4145.2: Mechanical lock and strike requirements

• AS1530.4: Fire-resistance testing for fire door compatibility

• AS1428.1: Accessible design compliance, ensuring ease of use for all building occupants

• BCA/NCC: Integration with emergency egress and access control requirements

Material and Durability Considerations

Stainless Steel Components

Corrosion-resistant and high strength, ideal for high-traffic and external applications.

Hardened Alloy Steel

Used in heavy-duty strikes to resist forced entry and provide maximum holding strength.

Sealed Units

For weather-resistant models, sealing prevents moisture ingress, extending lifespan in exposed installations.

Applications: Residential vs Commercial

Residential Applications

Electric strikes provide convenience and enhanced security for modern homes and apartments:

• Integration with video intercoms for front gates

• Keyless entry for main doors

• Secure access for home offices or storerooms

Commercial Applications

In commercial and institutional buildings, electric strikes are often part of a larger access control system:

• Office entryways with card or keypad access

• Healthcare facilities with controlled ward access

• Educational buildings with restricted zones

• Industrial sites requiring both security and safety compliance

Brand Highlights

Buy Dormakaba Electric Strikes online

Dormakaba electric strikes are known for their engineering precision, robust performance, and compatibility with a wide range of locking hardware. Their portfolio includes monitored, heavy-duty, and fire-rated models suitable for high-security and high-traffic environments.

Buy Lockwood Electric Strikes online

Lockwood offers a comprehensive selection of electric strikes for commercial, institutional, and residential applications. With a focus on reliability, Lockwood’s fire-rated and weather-resistant models are widely specified across Australia for projects requiring trusted performance.

Product Selection Guidance

For Architects and Designers

• Choose strike type based on security, fire rating, and monitoring needs

• Coordinate finishes with surrounding door hardware

• Ensure compatibility with door frame material and lock type

For Builders and Installers

• Verify correct voltage and power supply availability

• Confirm strike dimensions match door preparation

• Select appropriate fail-safe or fail-secure configuration based on building use

For Residential Clients

• Opt for strikes with video or audio intercom integration

• Choose weather-resistant models for external gates or entryways

• Select monitored models for enhanced home security

Installation Tips

• Follow manufacturer templates for accurate frame cut-out

• Ensure correct wiring for chosen voltage and operation mode

• Test strike release with all intended access control devices

• Verify that fire-rated strikes are installed per certification requirements

Maintenance and Care

• Inspect periodically for signs of wear or electrical issues

• Keep faceplate and keeper free from dirt and debris

• Test release function regularly to ensure reliability

Order from John Barnes Group

John Barnes Group supplies a wide range of Dormakaba and Lockwood electric strikes, backed by expert technical support and industry knowledge. We assist with:

• Product selection for specific security and compliance needs

• Integration advice for access control systems

• Fire, acoustic, and weather performance considerations

Contact us today to discuss your project’s access control requirements: https://johnbarnesgroup.au/contact/