Regardless of the lock you are using, cylindrical, mortise or panic device, the cylinder comes in two types: removable and standard core cylinders.
Standard core: These are cores which remain in the housing and cannot be changed without removing the entire lock-set or cylinder and are commonly referred to as key-in-lever or key-in-knob.
♦ Most common type of cylinder
♦ Typically found in light commercial applications with a low number of users
♦ Manufacturer-specific to the lock and cannot be interchanged with other manufacturers
Interchangeable core: These cores provide maximum flexibility for the end user while maintaining a high level of security and functionality. These cylinders provide the ability for a lock to be re-keyed or with out the need of a locksmith and without the hassle of removing the entire lockset.
♦ Typically found in large commercial applications where large turnover or high security is required
♦ Not manufacturer-specific to lock type
♦ Very convenient for use in exit devices given the ease of re-keying
