The complete guide to locks and latches
With so many types of locks and latches, it’s not always easy choosing what you need. From cabinet locks and latches to various types of door latches, you’re spoiled for choice. Here we explore some key areas to consider and help to make your selection process easier. We’ll cover:
Differences between locks and latches
Before you choose your locks and latches
Applications for locks and latches
What are locks and latches?
Both locks and latches are used to secure doors, gates, cabinets, or other enclosures by keeping them closed. Their primary function is to control access, whether it's simply keeping something shut or preventing unauthorized entry.
Locks and latches operate through mechanical means, involving the movement of a bolt, latch, or other components to secure the door or enclosure. They often require physical manipulation, such as turning a key, sliding a bolt, or flipping a lever.
View our range of locks and latches
Differences between locks and latches
Locks and latches are similar in their purpose of securing doors, gates, and enclosures. The difference is in how they operate and their level of security. Locks provide a higher level of security, often requiring a key, combination, or electronic input to operate. This makes locks ideal when preventing unauthorized access is crucial. Locks are generally more complex, involving mechanisms like tumblers, which contributes to their higher cost and enhanced security features.
On the other hand, latches serve a more basic function by simply keeping something closed. They operate through simpler mechanical means, such as sliding a bolt or flipping a lever, and sometimes do not require a key. This makes them more affordable and easier to use but also means they offer less security compared to locks. Latches are commonly used in interior settings, where the primary goal is to secure the closure rather than prevent unauthorized entry. But with so many types of door locks and latches, it’s not always easy to choose.
What’s the difference between cam locks and cam latches?
There are several schools of thought. The two terms are often used interchangeably, so the name you use will depend on regional nomenclature differences. Sometimes it’s even called a cam latch lock.
But there is a difference between latch and lock.
Cam latches are lever-like fasteners. These latches typically consist of two main components: the cam – also called a pawl – and the body. The cam is a cylindrical piece that rotates to engage or disengage the latch, while the body is the part that holds the cam securely in place. Together, these components form a durable and efficient latching mechanism.
Comparing cam locks to quarter-turn latches
Typically, cam locks use a traditional key-turn mechanism for operation. Now let’s look at quarter-turn latches. These are generally activated by hand or with a tool, though there are exceptions for both. A key distinction between the two is in their cut-out shapes: cam locks have a "double D" cut-out, resembling two capital D's placed back to back. Quarter-turn latches, as shown here, have a cut-out shaped like a square with rounded corners. Many quarter-turn latches meet NEMA 12 / IP65 standards or higher for protection against environmental factors. Most cam locks do not include seals to guard against water ingress.
Before you choose your locks and latches
Before we look at the different types of locks and latches available, you should have an idea of what you need to consider.
1) Think about security and cylinder type
The level of security you require for your locks and latches depends on the intended use. An application, such as an outdoor enclosure for electrical equipment, will often require a heavy-duty lock or latch, because anyone can attempt to access it. A more controlled environment, such as in manufacturing, could use industrial cabinet locks. You can also consider the cylinder type, which will impact how the lock is opened.
There are three main systems:
● Keyed alike – all locks opened by the same key
● Keyed different – each lock requires a unique key
● Master system – one master key can open all locks, even if they are keyed different
Understanding your security requirements and who needs to access your locked application is essential.
● Cam locks for cabinets will give you high security. Ones with NEMA/IP ratings will also give you a level of protection against dust and low water-pressure ingress, making these good HVAC locks and latches.
2. Door type
Your lock will be going into an application such as a door or panel that could be made from a number of materials. With each material there are different variables to consider.
Wooden doors
● Consider furniture locks and latches with an anti-drill centre that could offer a higher level of security, which is necessary when bearing in mind that a wooden door is more susceptible to tampering.
● Furniture locks and latches are good choices for drawers and cupboards.
Our experts have together an insightful guide to help you learn more: A Guide to Furniture and Cabinet Locks.
Metal doors
● The depth of the door impacts the lock you choose. Depending on depth, you’ll need to pick an appropriate housing that fits the application and offers the functionality you require.
● Cylinder cam locks offer a number of housing options as well as many style options. If you're looking for an electrical-panel lock, a spring-loaded latch is always good.
Types of locks and latches
Whether you're looking for industrial cabinet locks, furniture locks and latches, or types of door latches, understanding the differences will help you choose the right solution.
Furniture locks – flush cabinet
Our cabinet locks and latches include this lock, featuring a robust steel mechanism housed within a durable plastic body. Ideal for heavy-duty use in steel cabinets, the lock includes a specially designed fastening plate that simplifies rod assembly. The clip-on body ensures easy installation. Available with a stainless steel dust cap for added protection, and in both keyed alike and keyed different options now.
Compression latches – adjustable
Designed with a wide grip range and an adjustable screw, offering effective compression. They come in various pre-set compression options to enhance noise isolation. Also offers noise-dampening properties and superior sealing under vibration and shock conditions. The range includes latches with a quarter-turn cam operation, available in both locking and non-locking configurations. Cams and driver keys for our compression latches and locks are sold separately. Materials include die-cast zinc alloy and stainless steel, with different finish options.
Locking paddle latch
A recessed release handle typically used on enclosure doors and access panels. It operates by simply pulling the release mechanism, which retracts the latch bar, allowing the door to open. Simply push to close.
Comes with a locking mechanism and can be unlocked from the inside by moving the cam. Available in various body and handle materials, including steel and nylon, and with either a 'long cam' or 'slam shut' operation.
Snap-in magnetic catches
Our catches and locks include this latching device for metal cabinet doors and access panels. Designed for quick and easy installation and secured firmly in place with a simple snap. For an even stronger hold, choose to screw these catches into position. Fits into a recess cut in the frame, creating a flush appearance. Case materials include polyoxymethylene (POM), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and polypropylene (PP).
Cylinder-locking cam latches
Designed to lock and secure access to your panels and doors with a rotating cam secured by engaging the frame or keeper on the rear side. Tool-free assembly for quick and easy mounting onto doors with common thickness. Ideal for lightweight access applications. Stainless steel and die cast zinc alloy. Available with a choice of lock types and includes:
● Master key
● Keyed alike
● Keyed to differ
Quarter-turn spring latches
Also known as latch springs. Perfect for securing electrical cabinets and enclosures. The internal spring provides tactile resistance, and a stop lip prevents the cam from rotating beyond a quarter turn.
This range includes various driver types. Available in various materials and finishes. Steel or nylon cam, with a rubber gasket. Cams and driver keys sold separately. IP65 rated.
HVAC locks and latches
Specifically designed for use in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Ideal for enclosures that experience pressure differentials, helping to prevent unauthorised tampering and ensuring the safety and performance of the system. By securing access panels and doors, these locks help maintain system integrity and protect against potential damage or misuse. Surface-mounted design eliminates the thermal bridge between the inside and outside of the enclosure.
Built to withstand the harsh conditions typical of HVAC systems, these locks are resistant to extreme temperatures, moisture, and vibrations. The stepped cam enhances compression, ensuring a tighter seal when closing the enclosure. Both locking and non-locking versions, with L-handle and T-handle options. Surface mounting enhances application and locking integrity, with no need to drill through the door. Various handle and locking options available.
Accessories for latches and locks <H3> <UK only>
Our range of accessories are designed to enhance and support the functionality and durability of your locks and latches. Includes lock handles, keys, replacement cams, fixing rings, dust caps, locknuts for cam locks, and key tags.
Applications for locks and latches
As important as your direct application, the external environment that your locks and latches are functioning in plays a pivotal role in the selection of the right solution. The key factor affected by the environment is the material you should choose for your lock.
● Outdoor or harsh environments: These applications require added resistance to the elements. Opt for external locks such as stainless steel cam locks, which not only gives you security but resistance to corrosion. Just one example includes the quarter-turn handle, as shown here.
Outdoor industrial cam locks and industrial cabinet latches work best when they meet NEMA/IP ratings. A housing for an electrical cabinet, for example, has to stand up to the elements to protect its components. For your outdoor enclosure, you might consider thick-door quarter-turn locks, highlighted here, which seals to IP65 standards.
Automotive: If your application involves opening exterior and interior doors, the bonnet, or compartments, rotary latches – seen here – give you maximum security and convenience in push-to-close engineering.
Learn more in the guide our experts have written to give you a deeper understanding:
A guide to rotary latches.
● Indoor or stable environments: More standard and protected applications require less specific material features. Cam lock installation is easy, so think about a lock manufactured in a die-cast zinc alloy or plastic. Plastic is also helpful if you need a lightweight solution.
For example, this quarter-turn latch with wing knob is designed to secure doors, cabinets, enclosures, and other access points. The knob design makes it ideal for applications that require frequent opening and closing. Made of nylon and die-cast zinc alloy, so that it gives you the durability you’ll need.
Tip: If space is limited, go with mini adjustable compression latches, shown here.
You’ll find more help in our guide, How to choose and size cam locks and latches.
Download free CADs and try before you buy
Free CADs are available for most solutions, which you can download. You can also request free samples to make sure you’ve chosen exactly what you need. If you’re not quite sure which solution will work best for your application, our experts are always happy to advise you.
Whatever your requirements, you can depend on fast despatch. Request your free samples or download free CADs now.
Questions?
Email us at sales@essentracomponents.co.uk or speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application 0345 528 0474.