A Guide to Toggle Latches
Introducing the versatile, reliable, and easy-to-use toggle latch - a mechanical hardware that securely fastens two objects together in diverse industrial applications. This article explores the different types and benefits of toggle latches, highlighting how its sleek and well-calibrated lever mechanism allows for quick and effective fastening.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
What is a toggle latch?
A toggle latch is a mechanical piece of hardware that is used to securely fasten two surfaces, panels, or objects together. Toggle latches allows for easy and quick access while also ensuring that the closure is secure when in the locked position.
Toggle latches, also known as draw latches, are commonly used in industrial environments such as for flaps, covers, or machine cladding. They also come in many types such as spring-loaded, adjustable, heavy-duty, and more.
Toggle latches are designed to be able to withstand vibrations and other stresses, ensuring a secure and reliable fastening even in high-vibration environments. Some toggle latches even come with anti-vibration features, such as a sprung-loaded mechanism or locking mechanism, that help to absorb the shock and vibrations.
However, the ability of a particular toggle latch to withstand vibrations will depend on its specific design and intended use, so it's important to consider the specific requirements of your application when deciding which toggle latch is right for your application.
Find out more about anti-vibration support in our Guide to anti-vibration mounts.
Toggle latches are typically made of strong and durable materials, such as stainless steel or metal, which ensures high durability and long usage life.
Learn more in our Guide to stainless steel grades.
How do toggle latches work?
Toggle latches work through a lever mechanism that locks and unlocks the latch. The operation of a toggle latch is a calibrated system of levers and pivots. The toggle action has an over-centre lock point, which ensures sturdy locking when fully closed.
The latch is hooked into a tensioning hook, and a lever is tensioned downwards, creating tension and drawing the toggle towards the hook. Once the toggle reaches a certain point, it clamps down, creating a secure fastening. To release the latch, the lever is lifted, and the tension is released, allowing the toggle to disengage from the hook.
There are three main factors that determine the amount of force needed to operate a toggle latch - the size of the cam's bump, the tension in the spring or clip, and the length of the handle attached to the mechanism.
Toggle latch applications
Toggle latches are suited for use in a wide range of applications and are commonly used for securing and fastening two surfaces, panels, or objects together. They are widely used in these environments:
- Industrial cabinets and machinery covers
- Engine panels and valve boxes
- Exhaust systems and ductwork
- Toolboxes and transport cases
- Flaps and container lids
- HVAC panels and enclosures
- Trade fair and exhibition construction materials
- Marine and transport industry applications
- Industrial doors and gates
What are the benefits of using toggle latches?
Toggle latches have several benefits, including:
- Secure fastening: They offer a secure and reliable method of fastening two surfaces or objects together with ease.
- Easy to use: These latches are easy to operate, making them ideal for industrial and commercial applications. Also, quick access - they allow for quick and easy access to the fastened object or surface, making them ideal for applications where access is required frequently.
- Versatility: Toggle latches come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and styles, making them suitable for a range of applications.
- Safety: Some toggle latches come with a locking mechanism, which provides an additional level of safety and security.
Types of toggle latches
Toggle latches come in a variety of types, each characterised by distinctive appearances and features. You can find out more about the different types below:
- Adjustable toggle latches
- Spring-loaded toggle latches
- Lockable toggle latches
Other types of latches
In addition to adjustable, lockable and spring-loaded toggle latches, Essentra Components offer draw latches such as rotary draw latches and strike plate latches. Also supplied in our range of latches are paddle latches, draw latches and keepers, swell latches and slide latches and many more types of latches and cam locks.
Read more about the types of latches and their purpose in our Guide to 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 ensure the product you’ve chosen is 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.