ASEC Electric Releases Explained: Choosing the Right Electric Strike for Your Access Control System

Electric releases are a key component of modern access control systems. Whether you're securing an office, apartment block, school, healthcare facility or commercial premises, choosing the correct electric release helps ensure reliable access while maintaining security.

At Garrison Locks, we stock a comprehensive range of ASEC Electric Releases, including mortice releases, rim releases, surface-mounted electric releases, monitored electric releases, ANSI electric strikes and a wide selection of accessories. Designed for professional installers, locksmiths and facilities managers, the ASEC range offers dependable performance across a wide variety of door applications.

What Is an Electric Release?

An electric release, often called an electric strike, replaces or works alongside a traditional strike plate in a door frame. Instead of manually releasing the latch, the strike is activated electrically by an access control system.

Electric releases are commonly connected to:

• Keypads

• Proximity card readers

• Fob readers

• Intercom systems

• Video entry systems

• Smart access control

• Push-to-exit buttons

• Fire alarm systems

When activated, the strike releases the latch, allowing authorised access without using a mechanical key.

Why Choose ASEC Electric Releases?

ASEC has built a reputation for supplying quality door hardware and security products that combine reliability with value for money.

The ASEC electric release range includes products suitable for:

• Timber doors

• Metal doors

• Aluminium doors

• Commercial entrances

• Apartment buildings

• Office doors

• Internal secure areas

• Access-controlled buildings

Whether you're installing a new system or replacing an existing electric strike, there's an ASEC model designed for the application.

Types of ASEC Electric Releases

Mortice Electric Releases

Mortice electric releases are recessed into the door frame, creating a clean, professional installation.

The ASEC range includes:

• Standard mortice releases

• Deep jaw mortice releases

• Hold-open electric releases

• Delayed action electric releases

• ANSI mortice releases

• Monitored mortice releases

These are commonly specified for commercial buildings where appearance and reliability are important.

Rim Electric Releases

Rim releases are designed for use with rim locks and rim exit devices.

ASEC offers several rim release options, including:

• Standard rim releases

• R12 rim releases

• A8 rim releases

• Compatible faceplates

• Open inwards faceplates

These are ideal for upgrading existing doors with electronic access control.

Surface Mounted Electric Releases

Surface-mounted models provide a practical solution where morticing the frame isn't possible.

Products such as the ASEC A1C Surface Release and ASEC A95C Surface Release are suitable for retrofit installations and can simplify installation while maintaining reliable performance.

Understanding Fail Locked and Fail Unlocked

One of the most important decisions when selecting an electric release is choosing the operating mode.

Fail Locked (Fail Secure)

A fail locked electric release remains locked if power is lost.

This option is commonly used on:

• External entrance doors

• Secure offices

• Server rooms

• Storage areas

• Restricted access locations

Security is maintained during power failure.

Fail Unlocked (Fail Safe)

A fail unlocked electric release automatically unlocks if power is interrupted.

This is commonly specified for:

• Emergency exits

• Escape routes

• Fire doors where appropriate

• Buildings requiring safe evacuation

Always ensure the selected operating mode complies with local fire regulations and building requirements.

Monitored Electric Releases

Monitored electric releases provide additional feedback to an access control system.

They can confirm whether:

• The door has been released

• The strike has operated correctly

• The locking mechanism has changed status

This makes them suitable for larger commercial installations where system monitoring is essential.

Electric Release Accessories

Correct accessories help ensure a professional installation.

The ASEC range also includes:

• Mortice release faceplates

• Sash faceplates

• Rim release faceplates

• Release extension lips

• Replacement components

Using the correct faceplate improves alignment and ensures reliable operation over the life of the installation.

Typical Applications

ASEC electric releases are widely used across many sectors, including:

• Office buildings

• Apartment blocks

• Schools

• Universities

• Healthcare facilities

• Warehouses

• Industrial units

• Retail premises

• Hotels

• Public buildings

Their versatility makes them suitable for both new installations and replacement projects.

Why Buy ASEC Electric Releases from Garrison Locks?

At Garrison Locks, we supply professional-grade locking hardware trusted by locksmiths, installers and facilities managers throughout the UK.

When you buy from us, you'll benefit from:

• Large stock availability

• Competitive pricing

• Fast UK dispatch

• Expert technical advice

• Genuine ASEC products

• Complete access control hardware from one supplier

Whether you need a single electric release or multiple products for a commercial installation, our experienced team can help you choose the correct solution.

Browse the Complete ASEC Electric Release Range

Finding the correct electric release doesn't need to be complicated.

Our ASEC range includes mortice releases, rim releases, monitored strikes, surface-mounted models, extension lips, faceplates and accessories suitable for a wide variety of locking applications.

Browse the complete range at Garrison Locks and find the right electric release for your access control project.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an electric release?

An electric release is an electrically operated strike that allows a locked door to be opened remotely using an access control system, keypad, intercom or push button.

What is the difference between fail locked and fail unlocked?

Fail locked remains secure during a power failure, while fail unlocked releases automatically when power is removed.

Can electric releases be fitted to timber doors?

Yes. Many ASEC mortice electric releases are suitable for timber door frames, depending on the lock and installation requirements.

Are ASEC electric releases suitable for access control systems?

Yes. They are designed to integrate with most access control systems, including keypads, card readers, intercoms and building management systems.