What is a Fire-Rated Magnetic Lock?
A fire-rated magnetic lock, often called a fire-rated maglock, is an electromagnetic locking device that has been fire tested for use on compatible fire-rated door applications. Like a standard magnetic lock, it uses an electromagnet and armature plate to hold a door locked when power is applied. However, a fire-rated model is supplied with specific test evidence, installation requirements, and fire door suitability information, such as compatibility with FD30 or FD60 fire-rated doors.
It is important to remember that a fire-rated magnetic lock does not make a door fire compliant on its own. The complete installation must be suitable for the door, frame, escape route, access control system, fire alarm interface, power supply, emergency release arrangement, and any relevant certification requirements.
How does a fire-rated magnetic lock work?
A magnetic lock consists of an electromagnet fitted to the door frame and a matching armature plate fitted to the door. When power is applied, the electromagnet creates a strong magnetic field that holds the armature plate securely in place, keeping the door locked.
Magnetic locks are fail-safe devices, which means they release when power is removed. This makes them suitable for many access control applications where safe emergency egress is required, provided the system is correctly designed, installed, and connected to the required release devices.
How do fire-rated magnetic locks differ from standard maglocks?
The basic locking principle is the same, but fire-rated maglocks differ from standard models in several important ways.
Fire-tested suitability
Fire-rated models are tested for use on compatible fire-rated door applications, often to standards such as BS EN 1634-1.
Installation requirements
Fire-rated versions may need to be installed with specific fixings, brackets, intumescent materials, or installation methods stated in the product documentation.
Fail-safe operation
Magnetic locks are normally fail-safe, meaning they release when power is removed. On escape routes, the access control system must be designed so the lock releases if the fire alarm operates, if power fails, or if the manual emergency release device is activated.
Fire door compatibility
Fire-rated magnetic locks are usually tested or approved for specific fire door ratings, such as FD30 or FD60, subject to the correct door type and installation method.
Supporting documentation
Always check the product’s fire test evidence, certification, datasheet, and installation instructions before fitting a magnetic lock to a fire-rated door.
When should you use a fire-rated magnetic lock?
A fire-rated magnetic lock should be considered when an access-controlled door is also a fire-rated door or forms part of a protected escape route. This is common in commercial buildings, schools, hospitals, apartment blocks, offices, industrial premises, and public sector buildings.
In the UK, electrically powered locks on escape routes should return to the unlocked position if the fire detection and alarm system operates, if the power supply fails, or if the manual door release unit is activated. For this reason, a fire-rated maglock should always be installed as part of a correctly designed access control and fire safety system.
Common applications for fire-rated magnetic locks
Fire-rated magnetic locks are commonly used on:
- Stairwell and corridor fire doors
- Access-controlled escape route doors
- Office and commercial building entrances
- Healthcare and education buildings
- Apartment block communal doors
- Restricted access areas on protected routes
- High-security internal fire doors
- Compatible FD30 and FD60 fire-rated doors
What should be connected to a fire-rated maglock?
A fire-rated magnetic lock is usually only one part of a complete access control installation. Depending on the door and site requirements, the system may also include:
- An access control reader or keypad
- A suitable access control controller
- A power supply
- A fire alarm interface or relay
- A press to exit button
- An emergency door release unit
- Suitable brackets or mounting plates
- Intumescent material where required by the certification
Correct wiring is essential. The lock must release when required, including during fire alarm activation, power failure, or operation of the emergency release device.
Key buying checklist
Before selecting a fire-rated magnetic lock, check the following:
- Confirm the door rating, such as FD30 or FD60.
- Check that the lock has suitable fire test evidence or certification.
- Confirm the lock is suitable for the door type and installation method.
- Check whether intumescent material or specific fixings are required.
- Ensure the lock is wired to release on fire alarm activation where required.
- Ensure the system releases on power failure.
- Fit a suitable emergency door release unit on the escape side where required.
- Use a suitable access control power supply and interface relay.
- Make sure the installation is checked by a competent person.
Fire-rated maglocks and access control
Fire-rated magnetic locks are widely used with access control systems, door entry systems, keypads, proximity readers, exit buttons, emergency door release units, power supplies, and fire alarm interfaces. When correctly specified and installed, they provide secure day-to-day access control while supporting safe emergency egress.
Browse our range of fire-rated magnetic locks, emergency door release units, and access control power supplies to find suitable products for your installation.