Reese End users often disregard compression latches and other touch-point solutions, but they are an integral part of the entire program. Compression latches can have a significant impact on the performance, security, and ergonomics of an industrial product or application.
There are many choices for compression latching methods. How do you choose the best one? These are five questions you should ask when choosing a compression lock for equipment applications.
1. What Are The Unique Requirements Of This Application?
Compression latchesare a reliable way to keep doors and panels shut while minimizing noise, panel movement, and vibration. To provide environmental sealing against moisture, dust, and electromagnetic interference, they may compress a gasket.
First, determine the amount of compression required to select the right latch for your application. Different applications might require different levels of compression depending on the size of the gasket or vibrations.
Heavy-duty applications might also require latches with levers. These provide a greater mechanical advantage because of stronger latching forces and require less user effort.
2. What Are The Circumstances In Which The Compression Latch Can Be Used?
This is an important consideration when choosing the material, strength, or general structure of a latch. First, determine how the latch will be used. For many years, a latch may have to be used multiple times per day. A provider must confirm that the latch will serve its intended purpose for a long time. You should consider the force that the latch must withstand during normal operation and any unexpected occurrences. This may indicate that the latch should be made of sturdy materials like zinc or stainless.
Due to its physical environment, a latch could face additional challenges. For exterior applications, you may need to be able to withstand sun and wind as well as chemical resistance due to weather conditions or cleaning solutions.
3. How Is The Latch Installed?
When choosing the right compression latch, it is important to consider the installation requirements. For situations where mounting space is limited, a smaller compression latch may be the best choice. It is important to consider the thickness of the panel on which the latch will be mounted when choosing the right compression latch.
When choosing a compression latch, another important consideration is the amount of internal space available for latch placement. A latch that attaches to the outside of your application may be the best choice if you have limited interior space.
4. What Are The Security And Ergonomic Specifications?
How does the latch panel, to which it is attached, open and close? How will the latch work? Does the latch have a handle that can be used to open the enclosure?
These are important questions to ask when choosing a compression lock. You can open compression latches by pressing a button or raising and twisting a handle. For latches that are frequently accessed by hand, a T-handle, knob, or knob may be recommended. These can also be useful for users who have to use the app while wearing gloves.
Access to secure settings might need to be restricted to authorized individuals only. While a simple compression latch might be sufficient for basic security, many other options offer greater security. For example, latches that require special equipment may not be able to be opened.
5. What Other Factors Influence The Selection Of Compression Latches?
While security and environmental concerns are the main considerations in choosing a compression latch solution for a project, aesthetic considerations may also be important.
As customers increasingly value aesthetics, it is important to consider how the final product will look. Can the user see the latch? Is this product in compliance with high aesthetic standards? These questions can help you understand the material and finish for the compression latch. There are many options, from chrome-plated to polish.
For example, chrome-plated and flush-mounted compression latches are a good choice for maritime applications. They have a sleek, polished appearance and provide a lift-and-turn function.
