16 mm pedestal lock

Product Description
The 16 mm Pedestal Lock is a precision-engineered locking solution designed specifically for the unique requirements of compact office furniture, including smaller desk pedestals, lateral file drawers, and cabinet doors where space is at a premium.
This lock derives its name from its defining characteristic: a 16 mm diameter cylinder that fits into narrower mounting holes than standard 19mm or 22mm locks.
Despite its compact size, this pedestal lock delivers robust, reliable security through a durable metal construction and a precision pin-tumbler or disc-tumbler mechanism.

16 mm pedestal lock

It is supplied as a complete unit, typically including the lock cylinder, a rotating cam (the arm that engages the drawer’s locking bar), necessary mounting hardware such as retaining clips or threaded nuts, and two matching keys.
Whether you are replacing a broken or lost-key lock on an existing piece of furniture, refurbishing a vintage desk, or building a custom cabinet, this 16 mm pedestal lock offers a space-efficient, professional-grade security upgrade.

What Does a 16 mm Diameter Mean for My Furniture?
The “16 mm” measurement refers to the diameter of the lock cylinder’s external barrel or “nozzle” that fits into the pre-drilled hole in your drawer front or cabinet door.
This is a critical specification.
Many modern office furniture systems, particularly those imported from Europe or Asia, use this smaller 16mm standard to accommodate thinner drawer fronts and sleeker designs.
Using a lock with the correct 16 mm diameter ensures a flush, professional fit without needing to drill a larger hole.
Always measure your existing lock’s face or the hole in your furniture before purchasing to confirm it requires a 16 mm pedestal lock.

16 mm pedestal lock

How Does a Pedestal Lock Mechanism Work?
The operation of a 16 mm pedestal lock is straightforward and reliable.
It functions as a cam lock.
When you insert the key into the cylinder and turn it, the key’s cuts align internal pins or discs, allowing the cylinder core to rotate.
This rotation turns the cam—a metal arm attached to the back of the lock.
The cam swings in an arc (typically 90 or 180 degrees) behind the drawer frame or engages a metal locking bar within the pedestal, physically preventing the drawer from being pulled open.
The entire mechanism is housed within the compact 16 mm body, engineered to withstand repeated daily use in an office environment.

How Do I Install This Lock Correctly?
Installation of a 16 mm pedestal lock is a simple DIY task requiring only basic tools, usually just a screwdriver.
The general steps are:

1. Remove the Old Lock: Open the drawer and locate the retaining clip or nut on the back of the existing cylinder.
   Remove it to slide the old lock out from the front.

2. Prepare the New Lock: If your lock has a removable cam (common in modular designs), attach it to the back of the new cylinder in the correct orientation for your drawer’s locking mechanism.
   Some cams are fixed.

3. Insert the New Lock: Slide the new 16 mm pedestal lock cylinder into the hole from the front of the drawer.

4. Secure the Lock: From inside the drawer, install the provided retaining clip or nut onto the back of the cylinder.
   Tighten it just enough to hold the lock firmly in place without overtightening and damaging the drawer material.

5. Test the Function: Insert the key, turn to ensure the cam moves freely and engages the lock mechanism, and test that the drawer opens and closes correctly.

What Types of Cams Are Available for This Lock?
The cam is the business end of your 16 mm pedestal lock, and its style must match your furniture.
Cams come in various shapes and sizes, including:

• Straight Cam: A simple, straight arm for basic engagement.

• Offset Cam: An arm with a bend to reach a locking bar set back from the lock body.

• Long/Short Cams: Different lengths to accommodate varying distances between the lock and the locking point.

• Double Wing Cam: A cam with two arms, often used in specific applications for a more secure hold.
  When ordering a replacement, you can often either specify the cam type you need or re-use your existing cam if it fits the new lock’s spindle.

Can I Get Multiple 16 mm Locks Keyed Alike?
Yes, key management is an important consideration.
Many suppliers of 16 mm pedestal locks offer the option to have multiple locks keyed alike.
This means a single key will operate all the locks in a set, such as all the pedestals and filing cabinets in one office.
This is a significant convenience, eliminating the need for a bulky key ring.
Alternatively, locks are commonly supplied keyed to differ, where each unit has its own unique key.
Some systems also offer master keying, where each lock has its own key, but a single master key can open them all.
When ordering, you can specify your keying preference to match your security and convenience needs.

What Materials Are These Locks Made From?
Durability is key for any hardware.
A quality 16 mm pedestal lock is constructed from robust materials to ensure a long service life.
The lock body and cylinder are commonly made from zinc alloy die-casts or solid brass, often finished with a protective nickel-plated or chrome surface to resist corrosion and wear.
The internal pins or discs are typically made of hardened brass or steel to prevent wear and resist picking.
The cam, which bears the locking force, is usually made of hardened steel.
This combination of materials ensures that your 16 mm pedestal lock will provide reliable security for years, even with frequent daily use.

16 mm pedestal lock available in Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Lamu, Mandera, Marsabit, Isiolo, Meru, Embu, Kitui, Machakos, Makueni, Nyandarua,

Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Turkana, Samburu, Trans Nzoia, Uasin, Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Baringo,

Laikipia, Nakuru, Narok, Kajiado, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Busia, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Nairobi.

In Nairobi you can find them at: Westlands, Dagoretti,  Lang’ata, Starehe, Kamukunji, Embakasi, and Kasarani, Kibera, Mathare,

Eastleigh, Karen, Lavington, Westlands, Parklands, Runda, South C, South, Ngong Road

In Mombasa you can find us at : Nyali, Mwembe Tayari, Majengo, Likoni ,Bamburi, Miritini