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, including pharmaceutical facilities.
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.
Kirk Type T Interlock (HD Series)
The KIRK® Type T transfer interlock combines two or more lock cylinders in a single housing. It retains one or more keys while others are released, enabling key exchange within an interlock sequence.
Kirk Type DC Interlock (HD Series)
KIRK® Type DC access interlocks provide a physical barrier to access points until hazardous energy or movement is mitigated. They consist of a main body with a lock cylinder and a catch.
Kirk Type KC40 Interlock (SD Series)
The Type KC40 is a threaded cylinder interlock that engages directly with equipment linkage to isolate power. The key is trapped or released based on cam position. It has no housing and is installed using OEM-provided mounting, with two lock nuts supplied.
KS – Power Electrical Switch
The KS is a key-operated electrical switch for machine control circuits, with the KS20 as the most common option. Designed for short-term, off-load isolation, it is available in brass or stainless steel and can be panel-mounted or housed in an IP65-rated enclosure.
AI-HD – Single Key Access Interlock
The AI-HD is a Heavy Duty (HD) robust single key access interlock ideal for use on hinged doors. The interlock has an open cavity design manufactured in stainless steel, making it ideal for use in harsh or corrosive environments and heavy use.
AIE – Dual Key Access Interlock
The AIE dual key access interlock is suitable for use on hinged and sliding doors. The interlock has an open cavity design and is manufactured in an aluminum alloy or durable stainless steel. The AIE is available in two options: exchange key and double key.
KF – Bolt Interlock with Flange
The KF Lock is a key-operated mechanical bolt interlock for electrical switchgear. It uses a 16 mm diameter bolt to control the movement of handles or toggles and is manufactured in brass or stainless steel.
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.
