To extract a broken key, various methods can be applied, grouped as follows:
Preserving the Lock
You can attempt to remove the broken piece without damaging the lock. It is recommended to first lubricate the lock with oil or grease. Then, the fragment can be extracted using tweezers or pliers.
With Extraction/Damage to the Lock
If gentle methods prove insufficient, the lock needs to be dismantled. Sometimes it can be repaired, but usually, a complete replacement is necessary.
Rough Methods
Sometimes traditional methods of removing the fragment are ineffective, requiring forceful breaking of the door. Instead of attempting to break the door yourself, it is better to consult professionals.
What Not to Do
In some situations, people attempt to glue the broken key pieces together. However, this method is ineffective as it risks jamming the fragment further, making the situation worse. Additionally, chemical elements may enter the lock, necessitating a replacement of the cylinder.
Preserving the Lock
How to Remove a Broken Key from a Cylinder? This can be done using the following methods:
- Screw Method: Suitable only for thick keys. Drill a hole at the break point and screw a screw into the lock. Then, use pliers to pull out the screw along with the fragment.
- Jigsaw Blade: This is one of the most effective methods. Insert the jigsaw blade under the key and turn it so that the teeth face upwards. The fragment is then caught and extracted.
- Fishing Hook: This method is quite complex but effective. Straighten the hook, insert the serrated end into the keyhole, and carefully pull it out if it catches the key.
- Pliers: Pliers are useful if there is a large fragment protruding from the lock slot. Lubricate the lock first, then carefully pull out the key without using excessive force.
- Vibration: Recommended when the key breaks inside a disc lock. First, lubricate the pins. Then, use a small screwdriver to set the code elements back to their initial position. Tap the lock with a hammer. The vibration will push the fragment out, which can then be removed with pliers.
- Metal Tube Method: Recommended for lever locks. Take a copper or brass tube, slide it over the pin, and then melt its end with a soldering iron to attach it to the fragment. Once it solidifies, pull out the tube with the broken key.
Methods with Lock Extraction/Damage
If extracting the fragment is impossible, the following methods can be used:
- Extracting the Cylinder: Clamp the end of the cylinder with a gas wrench and twist it, then open the lock mechanism with a screwdriver. If the cylinder does not turn, remove the decorative covers first and replace them after changing the cylinder.
- Prying the Core: Use an awl or pin to pry the lock cylinder. Insert the tool into the lock slot and lift the locking bolts. This needs to be done carefully to avoid damaging the lock.
- Drilling the Cylinder: The cylinder can be drilled out with a drill. Once drilled, it can be turned slightly and removed from the door.
- Hammering the Lock: The cylinder can be hammered out after removing the protective cover. However, in this case, the lock will need to be replaced.
- Dismantling the Lock: The lock can be disassembled after being removed from the door. This method is highly reliable but can only be done if the door is open.
Rough Methods
Door breaking should only be done if other methods fail, there are children locked inside, or there is significant smoke in the room. It is highly advisable to avoid this and hire highly qualified professionals with specialized tools.
Basic Door Breaking Methods Include:
- Cutting the lock bolts with a grinder.
- Cutting out the lock, though this can damage the door.
- Cutting the hinges, though this may not always be possible due to special protection on many doors.