A guide to latches
Which latches and locks are the best for my applications?
All latches keep doors, panels, and other surfaces closed. Where they differ is in their actuation – the mechanism by which the latch closes – and holding type. You can even get a door lock latch, meaning your latch can lock for added security. The locking mechanism in these latches provides an extra layer of protection. Depending on the application, the locking mechanism can vary, offering different levels of security and ease of use. When choosing a latch, it's important to consider the type of locking mechanism that best suits your needs. A reliable locking mechanism ensures that the door or panel remains securely closed, preventing unauthorized access. At Essentra, we have a range of latches and locks available.
With so many different door latch types available, and confusion over what a panel latch is, we've put together this guide to help you understand the different types of latches and which best suits your application. First, let's look at the different categories of latches before we show you the best solution for your application. We'll cover:
Latch types explained
How latches can protect applications against ingress
How latches can minimize vibration and noise
Latches by industry
What are the different latch types?
Cam latches
These are simple mechanical devices that lock, consisting of both a base and a cam lever. Sometimes referred to as a cam lock latch, it's actuated by turning the base with a key or other tool, which presses the doors or surfaces shut. Mountings vary, from concealed to wings and knobs. You can even get them with T-Handles with a stainless steel cam lock.
Cam latches are the most popular cabinet latch hardware. They provide a secure and efficient way to ensure cabinets and enclosures remain closed, making them an essential component in many applications. Cam latches are commonly used in furniture, lockers, and various industrial equipment due to their reliability and ease of use. The versatility of a cam latch allows it to be customized with different mounting options, enhancing their adaptability to various design requirements. Moreover, cam latches are available in various materials and finishes, ensuring they meet both functional and aesthetic needs.
The simplicity and effectiveness of cam latches make them a preferred choice for securing cabinets and other enclosures in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The ease of installation and operation of cam latches contributes to their widespread use and popularity. With advancements in design, cam latches now offer enhanced security features, providing peace of mind in protecting valuable contents. Cam latches remain a vital component in ensuring the safety and security of various types of storage solutions. They are not only practical but also provide a sleek and unobtrusive appearance, making them ideal for modern cabinetry and enclosures.
Compression latch
Compression latches are a type of cam latch but deserve a spotlight of their own. When these latches close, they compress gaskets against door and panel openings, providing a tight seal. They open via a trigger release mechanism. You either press a button or turn the key, which releases the locking arm. Similar to cam latches are swell latches, which compress a type of vibration isolator called a rubber bushing. Compression latches are particularly valuable in applications where maintaining a secure and sealed environment is critical. Compression latches are often used in industries such as automotive, marine, and aerospace, where the integrity of the seal is paramount. The design of a compression latch ensures that once closed, it minimizes the ingress of dust, water, and other contaminants, thereby protecting the contents of the enclosure.
The effectiveness of a compression latch lies in its ability to apply consistent pressure, ensuring the gasket is tightly compressed each time the latch is engaged. This makes compression latches ideal for use in outdoor and harsh environments where equipment and enclosures are exposed to elements. Additionally, compression latches are available in various styles and materials, allowing them to meet specific industry standards and aesthetic requirements. Compression latches are often made from robust materials such as stainless steel and zinc alloy, ensuring longevity and resistance to corrosion.
The versatility of a compression latch extends to its ease of use; it can be quickly and easily operated, making it a convenient choice for both manufacturers and end-users. The reliability of compression latches in maintaining a secure seal is unmatched, making them an essential component in ensuring the safety and functionality of various equipment. Compression latches also play a crucial role in reducing noise and vibration, thanks to their ability to compress gaskets effectively. This feature of compression latches is particularly beneficial in automotive and industrial applications where noise reduction is important.
Furthermore, the advanced design of a compression latch allows for customization, enabling it to be tailored to specific application needs. A compression latch provides not only functional benefits but also contributes to the overall aesthetic of the equipment by offering a clean and sleek locking mechanism. With their superior sealing capabilities, compression latches are indispensable in environments where maintaining the integrity of the seal is critical. Compression latches continue to be a preferred choice for many industries due to their durability, effectiveness, and versatility.
You can get fixed-compression latches where the cams are fixed to provide consistent compression and decompression to your specified depth. Or, you can go with adjustable compression latches, which lets you change the locking cam’s position. This enables you to adjust compression over a period of time.
Slam latches
This is essentially a spring-loaded latch, though sometimes they're called a push-to-close latch or referred to as having push lock fittings. A specially designed spring provides tactile resistance. As the panel door is pushed, the cam rises and then springs down behind the panel wall, automatically locking doors or panels when closed. A good example of this is a quarter turn slam latch. Quarter turn means that the latch can be opened and closed with 90˚ of rotation.
Slam latches are widely used in various applications due to their convenience and reliability. Slam latches are particularly popular in environments where quick and frequent access is required. For instance, they are commonly used in cabinets, lockers, and toolboxes, where the ability to quickly secure and open doors is essential. The design of slam latches allows for easy installation and operation, making them a preferred choice for both manufacturers and end-users.
Slam latches offer a robust solution for securing panels and doors without the need for additional locking mechanisms. This simplicity makes slam latches ideal for use in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Additionally, slam latches are available in various materials, including stainless steel and plastic, ensuring they meet specific durability and aesthetic requirements. The spring mechanism in slam latches provides a smooth and reliable closing action, enhancing user experience and ensuring the contents remain secure.
The versatility of slam latches extends to their use in automotive and marine applications, where they provide secure closures in challenging environments. Slam latches are designed to withstand vibrations and impacts, making them suitable for vehicles and equipment exposed to rough conditions. Furthermore, the ease of use of slam latches makes them an excellent choice for applications where quick access is essential, such as emergency vehicles and equipment cases.
Slam latches continue to evolve, with modern designs offering improved functionality and enhanced security features. Some slam latches now include additional locking mechanisms for added security, providing peace of mind in protecting valuable contents. The sleek design of slam latches also contributes to the overall aesthetic of the equipment, offering a clean and unobtrusive appearance.
In summary, a slam latch provides a practical and efficient solution for securing doors and panels across a wide range of applications. The ease of use of a slam latch durability, and versatility make slam latches an indispensable component in many industries.
A magnetic cabinet latch, or catch, is another type of push-to-close mechanism. Magnetic forces keep surfaces closed while providing an aesthetic appearance. Simply push to open the surfaces.
Draw latches
Also called pull-down latches and toggle latches, draw latches have two parts to them. On one side is an arm, which clasps the other side. As the latch closes, the clasp merges the two parts together. What's going on is simple. Pivoting levers and drawbars reach onto catches to shut the surfaces. This creates a tight seal, especially if you're using a gasket between the surface and the frame. Draw latches are commonly used in applications where a secure closure is necessary, such as in toolboxes and industrial containers. The reliable mechanism of draw latches ensures that the connected parts remain firmly in place.
This type of latch varies. You can get a heavy duty draw latch, a slide spring draw latch, and a premium draw latch, which provides a high-strength body.
Sliding latches
Components overlap with sliding latches. Again, it’s simple. Actuation is manual. For instance, sliding snap latches require a quick slide movement to the catch, which keeps the surfaces closed, resisting shock and vibration.
Getting the right latch is important, get more expert guidance in our guide, How to choose and size cam locks and latches.
How latches can protect applications against ingress
Latches can provide the solution for common problems with applications. Consider an outdoor electrical enclosure, outdoor utility cabinet or an outdoor telecom equipment cabinet. These applications must be protected from dust, debris and moisture ingress. Otherwise, performance will suffer. And it’s not just the elements you have to think about, but security as well. This is where a latch can help.
First, if your cabinet or enclosure will be outside, the components you use should be either NEMA or IP rated. That goes for your latches. NEMA electrical enclosures aren’t really different from IP enclosures. Both define degrees of protection against substances, such as water and dust. NEMA, the National Electrical Manufacturer’s Association sets standards used in the U.S., while IP ratings are used in Europe. However, the two are appearing in products in both regions, so it’s a good idea to become familiar with both. You can see how ratings compare here.
Solutions for outdoor applications
Understanding which latch is best suited to your applications is highlighted in the table below:
| Solutions for outdoor applications | Why |
| Cylinder locking quarter turn latches | Rated IP 65 Cylinder lock resists tampering Good compression for better seal and noise isolation |
| Adjustable compression latches | Rated IP 65 Offers security by locking NEMA rated, non-locking option Good compression to seal against ingress and isolate noise Can change cam lock’s position to adjust for compression over time |
| Fixed compression latches | Rated IP 65 Offers security by locking Good compression to seal against ingress and isolate noise Key turns 180˚ |
| Mini adjustable compression latches | Rated IP 65 Ideal for limited space Offers security by locking Supplied with sealing gasket for good compression and noise isolation |
| Thick door quarter turn latches | Rated IP 65 Ideal for limited space Offers security by locking Supplied with sealing gasket for good compression and noise isolation |
Why compression is important
Compression latches prolong the life of the equipment you’re housing. By compressing the gasket that surrounds the enclosure opening with consistent force, you’re closing the gaps that otherwise would allow insects, dirt or water inside.
How latches can minimize vibration and noise
Industrial generator parts, HVAC system components – industrial machinery is rarely quiet. For example, HVAC components, namely the rotating equipment and air and fluid that moves through ducts and pipes, create vibration and noise. Vibration can loosen mounting hardware over time so that it falls off, which can cause damage and leave the application exposed.
It’s not just industrial machinery that has to stand up to the rigors of vibration, but also appliances, electronic enclosures – even a data cabinet has to handle the jarring impact of vibration.
| Solutions for vibration and noise | Why |
| Latches from Table 1 | Compression latches withstand vibration |
| Adjustable T Handle with compression | Compression sealing T Handle style provides sure grip |
| Swell latches | Compresses a rubber bushing upon closing to resist vibration |
| Sliding snap latches | Sliding snap latches Spring action resists opening under vibration and shock load |
Latches by industry
Which latches are popular with your industry?
Automotive
Safety and better tactile feel for opening and closing doors and panels.
| Solution | Why |
| Swell latches | Vibration resistant |
| Sliding snap latches | Does not open under vibration |
| Compression latches | Vibration resistant |
HGVs, Construction vehicles and other commercial vehicles
| Solution | Why |
| Flush cup recessed T handle latch | Heavy duty door latch Also ideal for railway Rugged design and construction For flush mounting Ample grip for actuation |
| Locking paddle latch | Also ideal as a trailer door locking latch Secure closure with quick opening |
| Sliding snap latches | Remains closed during vibration |
HVACs
Enhance industry functionality.
| Solution | Why |
| Draw latch, over center compression | Latch arm extends over pin where lever rotates, preventing accidental opening |
| Compression latches | Withstands vibration |
| Flush cup recessed T handle latch | Industrial door latch Rugged design and construction For flush mounting Ample grip for actuation |
| Mini adjustable compression latches | Perfect when space is limited |
Indoor cabinets
| Solution | Why |
| Lift and turn cam latches, also known as swing handles | Handle stows away when not in use, avoiding catching clothes or skin |
| Adjustable T handle with compression | Withstands vibration Ergonomic grip |
| Sliding snap latches | Remains closing during vibration |
| Quarter turn latches | Rubber gasket provides good seal Economical Available with wing knobs with extra long housing for sound-proof or isolated doors |
| Draw latches, also called toggle latches | Quick action closure |
| Swell latches | Vibration resistant |
| L Handle turn cam latches | Ample grip for easy actuation Ergonomic |
| T Handle turn cam latches | Ample grip for easy actuation Ergonomic |
Machinery covers
Isolate noise and vibration to minimize malfunctions.
| Solution | Why |
| Lift and turn cam latches | Handle stows away when not in use, avoiding catching clothes or skin |
| L Handle turn cam latches | Ample grip for easy actuation Ergonomic |
| T Handle turn cam latches | Ample grip for easy actuation Ergonomic |
| Swell latches | Vibration resistant |
| Draw latches, also called toggle latches | Quick-action closure |
| Compression latches | Withstands vibration |
| Sliding snap latches – ideal for small machinery covers | Remains closed during vibration |
Outdoor enclosures
Control access and minimize repair costs.
| Solution | Why |
| IP65 rated compression latches | Prevents dust and water ingress |
| Premium draw latch and keeper | Robust performance and durability |
| Cylinder locking quarter turn latches | Rated IP 65 Cylinder lock resists tampering Good compression for better seal and noise isolation |
Boxes and containers
For quick, easy access.
| Solution | Why |
| Draw latches, also called toggle latches | Quick action closure |
| Wire loop latches | Quick and easy to use |
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.com or speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application 800-847-0486.