To reduce risk in the commodities crisis, padlock manufacturers have been looking for an alternative to brass for the bodies of their padlocks. ABUS has introduced a range of padlocks with aluminium bodies, which are tougher and lighter than brass.
The more expensive extruded, cut and drilled aluminium used does not degrade and looks good for life.

To prevent any reaction with steel, the hardened steel shackle is zinc coated and armoured with chrome plating, while the internal brass cylinder is also zinc coated.

The 72 range is designed to give years of trouble-free use and is available in seven different colours with long and short shackle.

Although the padlocks may appeal to design-conscious consumers, ABUS says that they will be of more interest to commercial customers, particularly for safety applications.

Being re-keyable with keyed alike and grand master suite options, the different colours will be of use to different sectors of the same business, the company says.

Retailing at £12.26, the standard 40mm padlock comes in at the medium/premium end of padlock prices.