Latches are essential whenever you need to apply force between two separate objects. Most of all our everyday objects are functional because of latches.
People won’t have functional lids, toolboxes, cabinets, chests, HVAC enclosures, drawers, and doors without latches. Latches can always provide effective aid for people that need additional structural security. Some latches can even be perfect locking devices.
Features
Available latches in the market have the following features:
- Numerous wire bail options for flexibility and numerous functionality
- Maximum strength straight bails
- Curved bails for mounting
- Curved bails for gasket sets
Benefits
Excellent latches provide the following benefits:
- Solid security – latches with an over-center mechanism provide robust steady security for objects that need co-planar latching. A Snap-Flat over centre latch will be perfect for you if you want to fully secure co-planar objects.
- Shock resistance – latches provide reliable shock resistance. Because of its smart mechanism, it can easily lock and separate two objects without much effort and strain.
- Strength – latches can boost the structure of objects by providing solid lock and unlock functions.
- Aesthetically pleasing – latches now come in concealed mountain styles that look clean and unnoticeable. They have sleek designs that don’t hurt the eye of individuals with particular aesthetic preferences.
Purpose
Toggle latches are referred to as mechanical fasteners. They mainly connect two or more objects that need to be separated and reconnected for full functional use. It is used to effectively engage an object on a mounted surface. Such mounted surface can be a catch type or strike type, depending on its design.
Toggle latches are popular mechanical objects because of the secure locked-in mechanism that it offers. With it, two separate surfaces can be easily locked and unlocked at any given time. It provides superb convenience as instant separation and connection can be had through it in a secured and stable manner.
It has two main parts: a base plate and a catch plate. The base plate comes with an attached loop and lever. A secure connection is made possible through its attached loop that can easily hook onto the catch plate. Once hooked, the lever can then be clamped down. Vertically pulling the handle allows for easy release and separation.
Mechanism
Toggle latches smoothly work because their mechanism is rooted in a carefully calibrated system of pivots and levers. It has an over-center lock spot that securely locks whenever it is reached. It is so secure because it cannot be easily unlocked. Intentional force is needed to release its tight lock.
The secured and simplified unlocking process is possible through the handle that provides leverage. Its screw loop length allows users to freely adjust the amount of force needed for unlocking.
Load Values
Not all latches are made equally. When choosing latches, you need to consider their maximum load values. Choosing one with a maximum load value that is not compatible with your need will be problematic and unsafe.
All latches have specified maximum load so always double-check their product description. You should carefully observe its strength value because you wouldn’t want one that gets easily strained. Toggle latches will get strained and dysfunctional if it fastens objects that are beyond their maximum load value.
Finish and Composition
You should also carefully consider the material, finish, and composition of your preferred latches. Its material is even more important than its design. Your choice should vary depending on its usage. When it comes to durability and strength, the following kinds of steel are best:
- Steel Zinc Plated
- T316 Stainless Steel
- T304 Stainless Steel
Uses of Latches In Different Industries
Latches may be small in size but they play a big role in ensuring the safe and secured daily operation of businesses in the following industry:
- Oil Industry
- Power Generation Industry
- Gas Industry
- Electric Industry
- Nuclear Industry
Latches are used to fully secure industrial lids, covers, and valve boxes.
Top Expert Tips When Looking for Latches
Tip no. 1: Know the kind of material that you need. If you’re in the nuclear industry, you should opt for 316 / 1.4404 stainless steel.
Tip no. 2: Know the right maximum load value of the latches that you need. Ensure that you choose one that can handle the weight and structure of the objects that you will need to connect. Choosing wrongly will be unsafe and problematic. Take time to study the weight and composition of the objects that you’re going to fasten together.
Tip no. 3: Know your particular needs. Knowing your needs will allow you to choose toggle latches that match your daily activities. Know if you need toggle latches that can be quickly released or ones with springs and adjustable locks.
Tip no. 4: Prioritize high-quality standards. Research for companies like Snap-Flat that employ international safety standards and protocols in producing latches. To be sure that your latches are of world-class quality, they should meet the standards of NORSOK, CINI, SHELL, and CE. It should also have ASTM certification.
Tip no. 5: Study top industry players in your field. Research the toggle latches that they use and the companies that they trust. If you can connect with them, do so. It’s best to use latches that have been tested and are highly recommended by players in your industry. You should choose a supplier that deploys integrity and 100% transparency in all transactions.
