keying-systems

Multiplex Keyway Families: Expanding Multi-Level Master Key Capacity

Engineering Overview: Engineering guide for multiplex keyway systems, explaining physical section profiles, master key pass-through geometry, and sub-master keyway segregation.

Technical & Engineering Specifications

Capacity Scales up to 50,000+ unique doors
Key Alloy Hardened Nickel-Silver (CuNi12Zn24)
System Concept Multiplex Geometric Keyway Broaching
Security Rating EN 1303:2015 Key Related Security Grade 6

Overcoming Master Key Pin Limits

In large facilities exceeding 5,000 doors, stacking excessive master split wafers in a single keyway degrades pick resistance and causes accidental key interchange. Multiplex Keyway Families solve this via geometric key blade cross-sections.

Hierarchical Geometric Pass-Through

  1. Grand Master Key (Profile A): Milled with a thin, multi-fluted section that passes freely through all broached cylinder plug keyways across the entire campus.
  2. Departmental Master Keys (Profiles B, C, D): Incorporate specific side-rib profiles that enter only designated departmental cylinders while being physically blocked from sibling departments.
  3. Individual Change Keys: Thick, restricted profile ribs that enter only their specific lock.

Security Benefit

Multiplex systems expand master key capacity up to 50,000+ certified unique doors while preserving strict physical pick resistance and anti-duplication security.

Frequently Asked Engineering & Selection Questions

Q1: How do multiplex keyways enhance master key security?

By using geometrically distinct key blade sections to physically block unauthorized keys, reducing the need for excessive master split wafers in pin chambers.