Types of Door Latches
Latches are available in a variety of materials in various thicknesses, finishes, and finishes depending on the engineering requirements. For instance, engineers may select a galvanized latch to prevent corrosion and preserve durability in harsh environments.
Other specifications include the level of security required for the application. A hook lock latch, for example, is more secure than hasps and may require padlocks.
Hook and Eye Latch
The hook and eye latch is a simple method of locking gates doors, windows, cabinets and sheds. It is also perfect for securing screens, porches and storm panels. No fancy tools are required and the hook can be screwed in manually in minutes. The screw points are sharp and can be sunk into wood quickly and easily, providing stability and security.
To determine the right hook size, you must first identify the type of hook. Crosby Group(c) Find the type of hook and size embossed near the eye or the clevis on the hook. The size is displayed on both sides. The clevis grab hook comes with an clevis that can be used for direct attachment to chains, whereas the eye rigging hook features an eye large enough to use with synthetics or wire rope. Pewag(c) hook type, size (in millimeters) and grade of alloy are engraved on the lower part of the hook bowl. CMCO Columbus McKinnon (c) Take a look at the "HA 800" or "HA 800-1000" and the size of the hook on lower portion of the bowl, close to the clevis.
Laclede(c) sells the Cartec chain hook. It is easy to identify as it has "Cartec" embossed on the bottom of the bowl and safety red or orange. Gunnebo(c) and CMCO Columbus McKinnon both have their names embossed on the lower portion of the hook bowl. Additionally, Gunnebo has a swivel hook that is identified by an "ELD" mark mid-way across the bowl. This hook has a wide eye that can distribute webs and round slings.
Clevis Latch
A clevis lock allows users to secure the clevis to an anchor, and it prevents the hook from slipping off during a transfer of the load. Clevis latches come in many different designs, such as those with spring-loaded handles or ones equipped with safety locks. This is ideal for slip hooks, as they guarantee that the load won't come off the hook unless an upward force is applied. This feature makes clevis-slip hooks compatible with ASME B30.9 Slings Standards and OSHA Regulations.
A typical clevis latch has the clevis pin as well as tang at one end, and a shaped head on the other. The clevises are usually constructed of steel, which gives strength to the latch. To resist corrosion, they're typically coated with chrome, zinc, or silver. They can also be made harder.
These types of latches can be used for different purposes such as connecting chains, rigging equipment to secure loads in trailers and pickup trucks. They're also employed for heavy-duty applications, such as the securement of cranes and machinery.
Some clevises are made from pieces that have been machined or folded pieces that have been molded into them. They have a base with a hole, whether threaded or not. They can be connected to other components using a bolt for clevis.
The clevis pin is usually threaded, and it can be inserted into a hole that's smooth or slotted. The pin has a greater diameter than a bolt, and is designed to handle massive shearing stresses and take on an axial load.
Many clevis latches are hardened to withstand the strain and vibration of use in harsh environments. Some are certified for overhead lifting. This means that they can support more weight than models that are not hardened. Additionally, a latch that is hardened can be coated with a variety of different metals including silver, nickel and chromium, to increase its resistance to corrosion. They can be painted or powder coated to add color and enhance their appearance.
Self-closing Lock
The latch's locking mechanisms can be as simple or complex as the overall design. Most often, these devices are made of metals for strength and durability. They may also be powder coated or painted to enhance the latch's appearance. Latches, regardless of the materials they are made from, must be able resist being able to withstand shearing, bending, and other impact forces. The thickness of the latch's backing plates, barrels, and cams is an important element when determining whether they are medium, light or heavy-duty.
The kind of latch you choose should be based on your security needs and the kind of door or enclosure that it will be connected to. For example, a lightweight garden gate can be secured using hook latches, whereas a sturdy shed door requires a hasp and padlock combination.
It doesn't matter if use an automatic latch or not. The most important thing is to ensure that it is shut properly. The Key Lab will reduce the chance of accidental disengagement that could lead work-site injuries. If you're not sure what to look for to determine if a self-locking hook is ready to load Look for locks with an internal stop or trigger mechanism that stops it from opening.
Another crucial aspect to consider is the hand. Certain bolt, rotary, and slam designs are made specifically to be right-handed or left-handed. Left-handed latches are typically placed in the middle of the latch on doors that are facing towards the interior. The right-handed models are placed on the outside of doors and are designed for doors that are facing away from the interior.
There are also specialized tools that work around the Adams Rite style commercial door locking latches found on many trucks and buses. These devices enter through a cutout on the side of the commercial door adjacent to the latch. They extend their reach into the latch to pull an adjustable bar that retracts the latch into the open position. These tools are available on the internet or in most hardware stores that stock Adams Rite latch products.
Keyed Latch
Latches are used to close gates and doors. There are numerous kinds of latches, and each type serves a specific purpose. Some common door latches include hook, clevis, cam, compression and Rotary latches. Some latches include locking mechanisms, for example keys for locks or a panic bar. Metals are the most commonly used material used for latches, however other materials may also be employed. They may also be subjected to additional processes to improve their quality of surface. Common finishes for latches include polishing, plating, painting, and coating with powder.
Keyed latches are made of a cylinder and requires the use of a key to unlock. The pins and tumblers of the cylinders are aligned with the key's cut to unlock the latch. Some locks include extra features such as antipick or antidrill security.
Another kind of latch is the hasp, made up of a metal strap and a staple. The staple is attached with hinges to the other end of the strap that has an opening in it. Latches can be made from other materials, such as plastics and rubbers, but metals are more frequently used due to their shapeability, machinability, and strength.

Door latches are generally made from metals, however there are some exceptions. For instance, some latches are crafted from plastics to reduce the weight of a door or to meet other requirements for design. Other types of latches are designed for specific purposes such as latches that are designed to be activated by pushing a lever or handle, which allows emergency exits in buildings and other environments.
There are two types of door latches: knobs and levers. Levers are more popular on newer designs, while knobs are typically found on older models. Some latches can be opened on both sides. This is ideal for doors that are that do not have windows. A Pawl lock is a basic version of a cam lock that can be unlocked by reverse a quarter-turn. It is often employed on electronic enclosures as well as in trailers, RVs, buses and trucks.