This article contains everything you need to know about latches.
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Latches are mechanical devices crafted to momentarily secure moving components together. By engaging firmly, they maintain the position of elements and can be activated to release and separate these parts. Popularly installed on doors and in enclosures, latches also play a critical role in seat belts, clamps, straps, and retractable systems. A range of designs provides various actuation methods, holding styles, and installation options.
Door latches are a fundamental component of architectural hardware, widely used to keep doors, gates, and entryways securely closed. Serving both residential and commercial applications, modern door latches come in various forms—including sliding bolts, spring-loaded mechanisms, and hook latches—to prevent unauthorized access and maintain privacy and security. Whether for interior or exterior doors, latching devices play a critical role in door safety, convenience, and access control systems.
One of the most familiar examples is the doorknob latch assembly. This architectural hardware solution typically integrates a latching mechanism, a locking mechanism, and dual knobs positioned on the interior and exterior sides of the door. Operation involves a spring and bolt system, activated by turning the knob on either side—a design that delivers both simplicity and functional security. Designed for a quarter-turn motion, the mechanism fully engages with a 90° rotation, creating a consistent, reliable closure.
Beyond traditional doorknobs, modern designs frequently employ door levers in place of knobs. These lever latches are valued for their ergonomic benefits, aesthetics, and ease of use, making them ideal for accessibility in homes and commercial properties as well as for compliance with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards. Levers enhance the visual appeal of doors, suit a wide range of architectural styles, and provide superior grip and mechanical advantage compared to standard knobs.
For high-traffic public areas and emergency exits, exit devices such as panic bars—or panic hardware (also known as crash bars or push bars)—are commonly installed. Panic bars employ a large, horizontal push bar fitted to the door's latch mechanism, allowing for rapid egress in emergency evacuation situations. This user-friendly safety feature ensures that occupants can exit quickly and safely, which is essential for fire doors and emergency exit doors required by building codes. To further increase building safety, some panic exit devices integrate with alarm systems or access control solutions for enhanced security management.
Security is paramount in modern latching solutions. Contemporary doorknobs and lever handles often feature integrated locking mechanisms—ranging from simple privacy locks to advanced electronic locksets. Many digital latches and smart door locks employ electronic components such as keypads, RFID readers, or Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling remotely controlled locking, monitoring, and keyless entry options. Electrified latches can also interface with home automation systems and security cameras for added convenience and oversight.
Door latches can be broadly categorized into deadbolts, deadlatches, deadlocks, and other variations—each offering distinct features for safeguarding property and managing access. Understanding the differences helps users select the optimal solution for their entry door, gate, or access point:
The distinguishing feature in deadlatches is the secondary deadlatch bolt, designed to enhance anti-tamper capabilities. The strike plate is sized to accommodate only the main bolt, ensuring the deadlatch bolt retracts automatically once the door is closed. This action activates an internal mechanism that prevents users from pushing the main latch back with a credit card or similar tool, thereby supporting key elements of security for entry doors and access points.
Other designs, such as simple sliding bolt latches and hook latches, are often found on basement doors, utility rooms, barn doors, and sheds. These options tend to be more rugged, offering increased mechanical strength due to thicker metal bolts and reinforced latching mechanisms. However, sliding bolts and hooks commonly provide single-sided access; therefore, they are best suited for secondary doors with less frequent security needs or where interior privacy is prioritized over high security.
When selecting the best door latch for your specific application, consider critical factors such as door material, installation environment, required security level, fire safety compliance, and compatibility with smart home technology. For industry professionals, facility managers, or homeowners, ensuring proper installation and routine maintenance will maximize the service life and effectiveness of your chosen door hardware. For tailored recommendations and to source quality products, refer to reputable door latch manufacturers and suppliers who offer expert support and a broad selection of locking solutions.
A simple latch consists of a base, a bolt, and a box or hole. The base, which holds the bolt, is usually installed on the door, while the box is installed on the door frame. When the bolt is slid or moved into the box, it activates the latch, securing one end of the bolt to the door and the other end to the frame. This fundamental latch design forms the basic principle for most door locking mechanisms and ensures reliable security by physically connecting two surfaces.
Over the years, this fundamental design has been modified and enhanced to create various types of latches suited for an array of industry applications, security levels, and user preferences. Some of the most distinct latch types are discussed below, offering functionality for applications ranging from home door locking to industrial equipment access control.
Bolt latches, also known as latch bolts, are straightforward latching mechanisms that include a bolt, a handle, a backplate, a set of barrels, and a box called a striker. The barrels hold the bolt in place and secure the latch. They form a non-continuous loop that allows the handle to pass through. A bolt latch can be locked or unlocked by sliding the bolt into the socket, making them ideal as a dependable mechanical lock on gates, cabinets, sheds, and a variety of enclosures.
The most common type of latch bolt is the barrel bolt, which is widely used for closing gates, doors, and windows. Barrel bolts are easy to install and provide a simple but effective security measure for both residential and commercial properties. Additionally, specialty bolt latches such as tower bolts, surface bolts, and flush bolts address particular security and privacy applications.
A spring latch is similar to a bolt latch but is equipped with a spring for automatic bolt extension or retraction, delivering a self-latching action favored for convenience and security. Spring latches—sometimes called spring-loaded latches or push latches—activate instantly when the door is closed, thanks to the internal force of the spring mechanism. Some designs use the spring to keep the bolt retracted, providing a mechanical advantage for easy release.
Spring latches can be constructed in various ways. A typical spring latch consists of an L-shaped bolt, known as a plunger, which features a small hole for inserting a clip or pin. The backplate is designed with two lips, each with a hole, to secure the plunger. A spring is positioned between the lip and pin to maintain the plunger in its extended position, ensuring a reliable closure.
The design of a spring latch is also utilized in many locksets, including deadlatches and slam latches used on entry doors, vehicle compartments, fencing, and toolboxes. Deadlatches and slam latches feature distinct characteristics that set them apart from standard spring latches, offering enhanced security, tamper resistance, or ease of operation.
Slam latches, also known as push-to-close latches or slam locks, are designed for doors and panels that need to latch automatically when closed—without manual intervention. Instead of using bolts, slam latches employ cams to engage with the striker or door frame. They typically have a rounded or chamfered edge to facilitate retraction upon impact with the striker. A spring-loaded mechanism ensures that the cam remains in the raised or ready position, and when the door is pushed shut, the cam either turns or slides into place. This rapid and secure type of automatic latching is popular for industrial cabinets, vehicle compartments, tool chests, and safety gates.
Slam latches are constructed to be more durable than standard spring latches, enabling them to endure numerous opening and closing cycles without significant wear or mechanical fatigue. They are commonly used in high-traffic commercial doors, industrial equipment enclosures, and transportation vehicles because of their rugged design. Additionally, emergency exits often incorporate slam latches for quick and easy release by simply pushing the handle, meeting requirements for safety, fast egress, and ADA accessibility.
Additional types of push-to-close or slam latches include:
Swinging latches, also known as swinging door latches or swing bar latches, operate similarly to slam latches. These push-to-close latches automatically engage when the door is closed. They feature a spring-loaded mechanism that keeps the bolt extended, with a rounded edge on the bolt to facilitate smooth retraction upon impact with the striker. Swing bar latches are commonly found in hospitality and hotel applications, apartment complexes, and certain industrial doors where added security and quick access are required.
Cam latches are frequently used in furniture such as drawers and cabinets, and are vital components for securing electrical panels and industrial enclosures. A cam latch operates by turning a knob or key, which rotates a cam-arm on the opposite side of the door or panel. Like other quarter-turn devices, cam latches rely on a straightforward mechanism and typically do not require a dedicated strike plate, box, or hole on the frame. Instead, the cam locks the door or enclosure by blocking only one side, making them best suited for access doors that are flush with the frame, rather than those that swing or protrude.
Other variations of cam latches are:
Aside from hinges, handles, and guide rails, furniture such as cabinets and drawers always has a latch installed to ensure doors and panels stay firmly closed. Cabinet latches can be of various forms, with the most popular types being bolt, spring, cam, and slam latches. These latching devices are essential not only for security, but also for childproofing, easy access, and organization in residential, office, and industrial furniture.
Cabinet latches are typically crafted from materials such as stainless steel, brass, copper, and anodized aluminum. These materials enhance both the aesthetic appeal and long-term durability of the latches, ensuring they are resistant to corrosion, moisture, and repeated use. For specialized environments, such as cleanrooms or food service areas, cabinet latches may be made from plastic or coated with antimicrobial finishes.
Cabinet latches are produced through various precision metalworking processes, including casting, cutting, forging, and stamping. As decorative hardware, their dies and molds can be designed with intricate patterns, shapes, and surface finishes that go beyond the visual complexity of standard latches. This allows interior designers and manufacturers to meet both functional and stylistic requirements.
As the name suggests, gate latches are engineered for securing gates and large doors in outdoor and heavy-duty environments. They are made much stronger and thicker than cabinet latches to withstand impact, weather exposure, and frequent use. Many gate latches also feature architectural design elements to blend with fencing and add curb appeal.
Common types of gate latches include barrel bolts, drop bars, and heavy-duty industrial latches. In some cases, slam and spring latches are also utilized for ease of use or automatic closing. These heavy-duty latches are constructed from thicker gauge sheets or plate metal and are shaped using larger compression forces during manufacturing.
Gate latches are typically made from galvanized steel or stainless steel, especially grade 304 for optimum performance in harsh conditions. Materials are chosen to ensure high strength, security, and corrosion resistance, which meets the demands of industrial, agricultural, commercial, and residential applications where reliability is critical.
This latch type resembles a cam latch in its simplicity. It operates by turning the knob 90°, which activates the latch. The mechanism involves an arm or cam that rotates when the knob is turned, creating a secure engagement commonly used in utility cabinets, toolboxes, and certain access panels.
Some turn latches come with a keyed knob for enhanced security. Additionally, certain models require additional actions, like pushing or pulling, before turning the knob to release the latch. These double-action features provide an extra layer of safety to prevent accidental or unauthorized release of the latch, making them valuable in safety-critical environments or where compliance with security standards is necessary.
A compression latch is an enhanced version of a cam latch, designed to create a compression force between the door and the frame when closed. This compression is achieved by either pushing the door and engaging the latch or by turning the latch using a screw action. Unlike standard cam latches, compression latches feature arms that can flex slightly when pressing against the enclosure frame. These robust arms are thicker and enable the latch to draw the door tightly against sealing gaskets.
Compression latches are commonly used in electrical enclosures, control cabinets, HVAC equipment, and outdoor kiosks. They are ideal for applications where dust-proof, watertight, and vibration-resistant seals are vital for equipment function. Compression latches often include integrated gaskets or EPDM rubber trim along the door or frame, which are compressed by the latch to prevent dust, moisture ingress (IP-rated sealing), and vibration noise. The tight compressed seal also helps deter forced entry and enhances overall enclosure security.
Other types of compression latches include:
A magnetic door catch consists of a catch body fitted with a permanent magnet and a ferromagnetic strike plate. They are used to provide automatic and convenient latching of furniture doors. Other designs employ two magnets, each fitted on the door and frame. These types are used for light-duty and low-traffic doors such as cupboards, utility closets, and wardrobe doors.
The magnetic catch consists of a hollow body, typically made from non-ferromagnetic metal or plastic. Inside this body is a bar magnet, flanked by steel plates on the top and bottom sides. These steel plates help concentrate the magnetic flux and provide solid contact with the striker plate, enhancing the grip and reliability of the magnetic latch.
Installed on the door jamb or frame, the magnetic catch works in conjunction with a strike plate mounted on the door edge. The catch can be either surface-mounted or concealed (hidden magnetic latch). For proper operation, the magnet and metal strike plate must make physical contact when the door is closed, ensuring a strong magnetic attraction is maintained. Magnetic door catches are valued for their noiseless operation, easy installation, and maintenance-free durability.
A draw latch, also known as a toggle latch or catch, features a component that remains under constant tension. This design is ideal for applications that require a strong closing force and a secure mechanical seal to prevent leaks, dust, and water ingress (as in NEMA enclosures and outdoor access panels). Draw latches are engineered with anti-vibration features to prevent accidental release or loosening from repeated equipment use and vibrations. Common applications include electronic enclosures, HVAC panels, and equipment control cabinets where maintaining a tight seal is essential.
A typical draw latch design includes two hooks: one referred to as the receiver, striker, or catch, usually made from a formed metal plate or sheet metal; and the other as the blade or claw, also made from sheet metal shaped into a hook. Some designs feature a wire or rod bent into a loop for lighter-duty or adjustable latch configurations.
Latching occurs when the hooks (or the hook and loop) engage each other under tension. One hook is connected to a lever via a pin, and tension is adjusted by pushing or pulling the lever to tighten the seal, making this latch type popular for toolboxes, cases, flight cases, and machinery covers.
Subtypes of draw latches are:
Over center latches are a type of draw latch known for their minimal actuation force while delivering strong closing forces. The lever is engineered to create a mechanical advantage, allowing for significant tension with minimal manual effort to release or secure the latch. Common in shipping containers, road cases, and rugged storage enclosures, these latching mechanisms provide reliable closure and easy access when needed.
The term "over center latch" comes from its distinctive over center lock point. Once the lever is pushed beyond this point, the latch engages, maintaining a secure closing force via constant tension. These latches are favored in vibration-prone environments.
Cane bolt latches feature a straightforward design with an L-shaped spring-loaded bolt connected to a bracket by two knuckles. To engage the latch, the bolt is turned and pushed forward into the keeper; reversing this action disengages the latch. Constructed from steel, often galvanized or powder-coated to resist corrosion, cane bolt latches are available in both left and right orientations. They come with pre-drilled holes for attachment to wood, metal, or masonry surfaces, and some versions are designed without holes for welding directly to a door or gate frame. Cane bolts are commonly employed as drop bolts for garden gates, barn doors, and double-door security.
A pawl latch features a rotating cam (the pawl) that can be turned to engage or disengage the latch. A quarter-turn of the pawl locks the latch with a keeper or door frame, while a reverse quarter-turn releases it. The pawl maintains the latch in either the latched or unlatched position with positive retention.
Pawl latches are commonly found on metal surfaces and in a variety of applications, including electronic enclosures, HVAC systems, buses, trailers, RVs, and boats. Their compact, rugged design and quick-action release make them popular for vehicle access doors, panels, and hatches.
Multi-point latches feature a handle connected to two or more long bars (rods) that extend when the handle is turned. This action engages the bars with the keepers at multiple locations along the door or panel, ensuring a secure and even seal. Also known as three-point latches, they are commonly used in doors and metal cabinets, especially for securing tall cabinets, electrical enclosures, and data center racks with long doors that require distributed locking points for added security and improved structural integrity.
The handle of multi-point latches incorporates a rotating mechanism that turns to position the tips of the bars into the upper and lower keepers. This action extends the bars sufficiently to securely engage with the frame or edge of a cabinet, enhancing resistance to forced entry and warping.
The movement of the handle locks all points of the door in a single smooth motion, providing efficiency and reliability. Optional upgrades to multi-point latches include integrated electronic locking, key access, and compatibility with access control systems.
The term "quarter-turn latch" broadly refers to various latches that operate by a quarter-turn of a cam. Due to their diverse designs, these latches use a range of tools, keys, and methods for closing or opening them, such as driver slots, triangular keys, square keys, or customized keys for tamper resistance.
Quarter-turn latches deliver high security and convenience, often designed to resist tampering and unauthorized access to electrical enclosures, machine guards, and control panels. They are manufactured from durable materials such as zinc, steel, stainless steel, and engineered plastics, and are often coated for corrosion resistance, including chrome plating and industrial-grade powder coats. Available in various sizes and cam profiles, quarter-turn latches also offer accessories like key blanks, padlock cups, ergonomic finger pulls, and protective dust covers.
A trigger latch is a distinctive type of latch that mounts flush to a door or enclosure and provides quick, secure access. These compression-type latches feature a locking mechanism located below the trigger lever. When unlocked, the trigger is pushed, causing the pawl to drop and release the door for access.
Once pushed, the lever of the trigger moves upward, serving as a handle to open the door. Trigger latches can be made with or without locks and may feature raised trigger buttons for easier and ADA-compliant operation. They are widely used in applications requiring flush mounting, low profile hardware, and enhanced tamper resistance, such as kiosks, displays, and control cabinets.
Twist latches, also known as butterfly latches, consist of a rotating cam attached to a straight piece called a slide, which has a curved end rotated by the cam. The latch's keeper is a flat metal piece similar to the slide, with a curved side that facilitates the secure connection between the slide and bracket upon closing. When engaged, the slide moves over the bracket on the cabinet, cupboard, case, or door and is secured tightly by the cam's rotation.
Twist latches come in various styles and mounting methods, meeting the specific requirements of closures, cases, equipment containers, shipping containers, and instrument or electronics cases. They are available with optional spring assists, locking versions, and custom finishes for both function and appearance.
A rotary latch consists of a latching mechanism, an actuator, and typically a cable linkage. Usually, a bolt or striker on the opposite part engages with the latching mechanism. When activated, cams or rotors of the rotary latch turn or rotate, releasing the engagement. Rotary latches feature a robust spring-loaded mechanism that provides a reliable push-to-close function, mirroring the convenience of a slam latch but with improved retention and vibration resistance.
A distinctive aspect of the rotary latch is its remote actuation capability. The actuator can be connected to the latching mechanism via a flexible cable, allowing the handle or trigger to be positioned away from the latch itself. Pulling the actuator causes the rotors to rotate and release the latch. Since the actuator pulls in only one direction, a spring-loaded mechanism is necessary to reset the rotor to its original position. Rotary latches are widely used in transportation (vehicles, buses, trains, RVs), heavy equipment, and enclosures where panel alignment and rugged reliability are crucial.
Rotary latches can feature either single or double rotors. A single rotor rotary latch performs the fundamental function of keeping a door or panel securely closed. In contrast, double rotor rotary latches incorporate two mirrored single rotors placed adjacent to each other. The primary advantages of a double rotor latch include increased rigidity, due to the two rotors holding the bolt, and improved tolerance to misalignment. Additionally, double rotor latches offer wider catch openings compared to single rotor models, making them suitable for heavy doors and misaligned panels.
Another classification of rotary latches is based on the number of latching stages. They can be either single-stage or two-stage. A single-stage rotary latch offers only the basic latching function. In contrast, a two-stage rotary latch provides two latching positions: a secondary, partially closed (false close) position, and a primary, fully closed latch. A two-stage latch must always be fully closed, but if the primary stage fails, the secondary stage helps prevent the door from suddenly opening. This type of rotary latch is commonly used in automotive applications, vehicle compartments, and other demanding environments.
A hasp is a simple latch consisting of a strap and staple and is among the most widely recognized traditional latching solutions. The strap is a metal plate with a slot punched on one end that fits over the staple. The other end of the strap has a hinge that attaches it to the door or door frame, allowing it to swing into position. The staple—the keeper of the lock—is a loop made from a bent metal rod or formed plate, designed to accommodate a locking pin or padlock.
A pin is inserted through the staple's loop to secure the strap, although padlocks are commonly used instead of pins for enhanced security. Many modern hasps, known as hasp locks, incorporate built-in locks in place of the staple, delivering additional protection in storage buildings, sheds, lockers, and outbuildings. Latching is achieved by rotating the lock, which secures the strap in place. Hasps are economical, easy to install, and offer a visual deterrent to intrusion.
One of the earliest and simplest types of latches, the hook and eye latch, features an uncomplicated mechanism—typically made from bent wires and rods, but also available in cast metal for decorative styles. Casting allows them to be shaped into intricate designs, often serving both utilitarian and decorative purposes on gates, shutters, and interior doors. The hook functions as the arm of the latch, which is attached to the door, while the eye acts as the catch that receives the hook when the latch is closed.
A bar latch is another primitive but effective form of latch, typically made from wooden or metal beams that are larger and sturdier than bolts. Due to their robustness, bar latches are used to secure gates, barn doors, and large entryways, designed to withstand significant bending forces and prevent the door from being forced open. The bar is held in place by strong cleats or hooks. To secure the door, the bar is either slid into a hole or lifted and manually positioned onto the cleats.
Bar latches remain popular for both historical restoration and security-focused projects due to their simplicity, durability, and ability to provide a visual deterrent against forced entry. They can be combined with modern padlocks or electronic access devices for added functionality.
With so many latch types available, selecting the ideal latch involves considering important factors such as security level, frequency of use, environmental durability, required holding force, material compatibility, and aesthetics. For instance, users evaluating options for commercial building entry doors should look for heavy-duty mechanical latches or electronic door latches that provide high-security locking and comply with fire and ADA regulations. Homeowners seeking child safety latches for cabinets should prioritize easy operation, reliable closure, and tamper resistance.
Frequently, user intent varies when searching for latching solutions—ranging from basic home hardware to specialized industrial access panels. Common search queries include "best door latch for heavy doors," "weatherproof latch for outdoor gates," or "child-proof cabinet latch options." To meet these needs, manufacturers, suppliers, and installers recommend reviewing technical specifications like load capacity, corrosion resistance, locking mechanism, and ease of installation before selecting a latch. Consulting with a hardware expert or reviewing manufacturer datasheets ensures your chosen latch meets both functional and compliance requirements for your specific use case.
For those upgrading, repairing, or retrofitting access panels, it is helpful to know if replacement parts or accessories (such as keys, handles, mounting brackets, or gasket seals) are available and compatible with your environment—even whether color and finish options are offered to match existing hardware.
Choosing the right latch not only impacts security but also determines the ease of access, the lifespan of doors or enclosures, and conformance with safety and insurance standards. Always compare your application’s unique requirements against available latch solutions to optimize safety, convenience, and long-term reliability.
Cam locks are a type of cam latch that incorporates a key mechanism instead of a standard knob. Their primary advantage is the enhanced security provided by the lock. The base of a cam lock consists of a cylinder that fits into a hole in the door or cabinet. External threads are cut into the lateral side of the base, allowing a nut to be threaded onto these threads to securely hold the cam lock in place.
A cam lock can only be operated with the correct key, which turns the cam. Cam locks come in various forms, including different types of locks and keys. The lock assemblies are generally classified into two categories: mechanical and electronic.
Another type of lock used in cam locks is a tubular lock. Instead of being positioned radially towards the plug's axis, the tubular lock's pins are arranged circularly. These pins also have varying lengths that match the profile of the key. A tubular lock key is cylindrical and has half-cylinder notches to align the pins.
Other cam locks feature a lock that a common or universal key can release. These types of cam locks are usually seen in utility cabinets and control boxes in which more than one person is permitted to access. Also, using these types allows multiple cabinets to be accessed with just one key. These keys have standard shapes and profiles. Examples of key profiles are square, triangle, and double-bit keys.
Electronic cam locks provide several advantages over mechanical types. They offer greater convenience, as entering a code or using a fingerprint scan is often easier than handling a physical key. Additionally, electronic cam locks are programmable, allowing for key changes without replacing the entire lock. Other features of electronic cam locks may include remote control capabilities, event history tracking, and blacklist functions.
Latches come with various design features that make them suitable for specific applications. They can be crafted from different materials, finishes, and thicknesses, and may include additional features tailored to their use. Below is a summary of some general features and specifications of latches.
A door latch is a mechanical fastener that connects two surfaces or objects and provides a secure, safe, and strong connection. The latch portion of the mechanism is mounted on a flat surface such that when it meets a...
A gate latch is a locking mechanism that is used to secure gates on fences or stakes on truck beds using a metal bar and lever that is raised to open the latch and lowered to close it. Although they do not have...
A magnetic door latch is a type of latch that consists of a striking pad and a magnet and is used to keep doors and gates closed. Magnetic door latches are also known as magnetic door stops, magnetic door catches, and door magnets...
A rotary latch is a locking mechanism that secures openings such as doors, enclosures, cabinets, and panels so that they are locked and unable to accidentally open. They are referred to as slam latches since...
Rubber latches are latches made of rubber or are composed of rubber components. They are used in the automotive, aerospace, and medical equipment industries due to their flexibility, durability, and non-abrasive properties...
A spring latch is a mechanical device that is utilized in the joining of two separate components in order to prevent movement or opening. A spring latch is locked with a spring compression so that it will not be released...
A hinge is a movable joint or mechanism that joins two items together. The hinge is one of the most popular categories of mechanical bearings. Butt hinges are a particular kind of hinge that have rectangular pieces that...
A concealed hinge, also known as a hidden or European hinge, is a type of hinge that has parts invisible to the onlooker when the door is closed. They are commonly used in cabinet doors to add an aesthetically pleasing and...
A continuous hinge is an extended single unit hinge that spans the full length of a door, cabinet, lid, or enclosure entrance. They are made of lightweight metals and can be cut to fit the size of any opening...
An eyelet is a metal, rubber, or plastic ring with flanges are used to strengthen or reinforce holes punched in thin fabrics. It is a smaller counterpart of a grommet that is bigger in size and used for more heavy duty materials...
A hinge is a machine element that connects two bodies allowing angular movement about a fixed axis of rotation, all the while preventing translations and rotations on the remaining two axes. A hinge can be...
A fastener is a non-permanent or permanent mechanical tool that rigidly connects or affixes two surfaces or objects together. Non-permanent fasteners can easily be removed without damaging the joined materials...
A friction hinge works by creating a specific tolerance in between the mechanical components. It works based on the principle of torque that can be achieved by applying a desired amount of force. Some other additions to these hinges such as...
A lock is a mechanism designed to connect an opening to its frame using a latch, solid cylinder, bolt, or some other form of a solid metal plunger that extends into the strike. They are metal devices that prevent entry or access for privacy, security, or...
A metal washer is a small flat piece of metal that has a hole in the center and is used as a spacer, a method for absorbing shock, or distributing the load of a fastener. The hole in the middle of a metal washer allows for a bolt or screw to pass through...
A self-drilling screw is a type of tool that has the same design features as a drill bit or cutting tool. As the name implies, self-drilling screws do not require a pilot hole in order to perform as a fastener...
A spring hinge is a self-closing hinge that automatically closes two connected workpieces using the action of a spring that is loaded into the hinge's barrel. They can be found in a wide variety of products such as...
Stainless steel hinges connect two components while allowing them to move in relation to one another. They can have various leafs shaped like rectangles and other forms depending on the type of stainless steel hinge. Stainless steel hinge leafs are...