What You Need to Know About Slam Latches?

Used to securely close doors and cabinets with ease, slam latches are mechanical devices with spring-activation capabilities which allow them to fasten shut components without the need to secure them by hand. Often used in industries like transportation, construction, and aerospace, these rugged devices are critical to the safety of many systems. As such, they are approved for use in heavy-duty applications that require continued performance, meaning that they can be frequently opened and shut without causing damage to the mechanism.

How Do Slam Latches Work?

Slam latches come in a number of different styles, the majority of which employ a particular type of spring that offers tactile resistance. As such, these spring-loaded latches have a basic design involving an enclosed spring mechanism that pushes a sliding pin and a separate component with a notch or a curve. The component’s notch or pin is curved so that the pin can only slide in one direction to ensure safety. When a panel door is pushed, the pin presses against the curved notch, allowing it to glide over. Next, the spring pushes the pin out so the angle of the pin and notch keeps the pin from retracting to secure the door. Most slam latches have a knob that helps recoil the string so that the pin can be removed to open the door. Non-locking latches are often able to keep an opening shut, but they offer a minimal amount of security as they can be opened by applying a strong enough opposing force.

Slam Latch Types

Though they are available in many different types, most slam latches are built of industrial-grade materials like stainless steel, zinc, and high-strength plastics, as well as are reinforced with a durable coating for additional protection from harsh conditions. In particular, there are six basic types of latches that are used in varying applications based on the stress loads the latches have to withstand.

To start, a single-point slam latch is a non-locking, compact latch simply designed with the pin enclosed inside the latch housing; an actuation knob is built on one side to operate the latch, and this type is easy to assemble. On the other hand, multi-point slam latches work similarly to those with a single point, but the former feature multiple slam bolts. They are slightly more difficult to assemble but offer better protection than their counterparts. In addition, they feature an actuation mechanism in the form of a T-handle or knob.

Another type of slam latch is the push-button latch, which is a single point mechanism actuated by a push button that retracts the safety pin for rapid access. Curved safety pins allow for a door to slam, and this type of latch is quick and simple to install while being suitable for panels of various thicknesses. A further type includes slam bolts, which are also called finger latches. These single-point mechanisms require zero force to secure a door, but they must be manually opened and are typically used to secure non-locking doors.

The fifth type is the rotary slam latch, which is considered diverse because it can be installed on any door thickness that is not longer than the latch itself. The final latch type to explore is the paddle latch, which operates via a paddle that retracts the pin from the locking element. They are composed of two parts that feature integrated stops for a self-closing door.

Benefits of Slam Latches

When compared to traditional latches, slam latches are superior for several reasons, the most significant one being that they are easy to use as they close on their own and generally only require a simple push of the door for operation. Furthermore, they are easy to install and are durable enough to be used in extreme environments without succumbing to rigorous conditions. Another thing to note is their ability to efficiently reduce noise and vibration.

Where to Find Quality Slam Latches and Other Items

When you are in the market for high-quality slam latches and other components, you are encouraged to commence the procurement process with a distributor you can trust. At Integrated Parts Sourcing, we are here to serve as your strategic sourcing partner through every step of the procurement process. Once you have had a chance to explore our expansive inventory of reliable parts, be sure to fill out and submit an RFQ form which can be found throughout our site. Our team will review your form and will work diligently to respond with a customized solution that meets your needs and restrictions within 15 minutes. Call or email us to learn more about our products and services, and a team member will be more than happy to assist you.