The Ultimate Key to Process Safety
Kirk, the essential partner for process safety
In the pharmaceutical industry, batch losses, production stops, and safety hazards can be costly. Kirk Key Interlocks prevent human error, enforce critical sequences and meet strict hygiene requirements. Our solutions ensure the safe maintenance and operation of mixers, control access to confined spaces, shield rotating equipment and avoid unintentional process deviations.
What is interlocking?
Interlocking is an essential safety solution for hazardous and sensitive industrial environments. Interlocking works by requiring a coded key to be transferred in a defined sequence between components of a locking system. The key remains locked until the conditions for the next step in the sequence are met, preventing the inadvertent manipulation of critical production equipment. The mechanism ensures that only safe, procedure-compliant actions can be performed. Kirk Key Interlocking systems are easy to integrate and efficiently protect your operators, processes, and equipment.
Our Products
Kirk Type F Interlock (HD Series)
The KIRK® Type F is a key-operated mechanical interlock designed for use with electrical switchgear. It uses a stainless steel locking bolt (5/8″ diameter) with 3/4″ travel to restrict or allow the movement of switchgear handles or toggles. Many switchgear manufacturers include mounting points specifically for Kirk interlocks. Pharmaceutical facilities across the US use the Type F interlock for applications such as controlling access to pressurized mixers.
Kirk Type B Interlock (HD Series)
The KIRK® Type B is a key-operated mechanical interlock designed for use with electrical switchgear. It incorporates a 5/8″ diameter stainless steel locking bolt with 3/4″ travel, which restricts or permits the movement of switchgear handles or toggle mechanisms. Many switchgear manufacturers design their equipment with mounting provisions for Kirk interlocks. The Type B interlock is commonly used on pressurized mixer systems to help control equipment operation.
Castell KSS20 Solenoid Controlled Switch
The KSS is a heavy-duty, solenoid-controlled key-operated electrical switch interlock for low-current isolation or switching. It releases a key only when a process sequence is complete, for example after a robotic cycle. Removing the key changes the contacts to isolate the process. Designed for short-term, off-load isolation, it can be panel-mounted or supplied in an IP65-rated enclosure. Available in brass or stainless steel, it is commonly used in pharmaceutical mixer systems for safe isolation.
The right partner for your pharmaceutical process
Kirk is the trusted industry partner for companies looking to protect their teams and secure their operations. With over 90 years of experience in the United States, we design and produce interlocking systems that are renowned for their reliability and durability in the most demanding environments. Thanks to their exceptional modularity, our solutions can be fitted to your specific processes and guarantee compliance with the strictest safety and hygiene standards. Our products are manufactured in our Ohio facility. We provide personalized support for your projects, from initial analysis to installation. Many of the main pharmaceutical companies in the US rely on Kirk Key Interlocking to protect people, assets, and process integrity.
