Introduction
Door latch is an integral part of door hardware. Typically, door
latches do not lock; however, some latches are available with a
key-locking mechanism or can be secured with a padlock. Latches with a
locking option can only be opened from the outside with a key. In order
to complete the door ensemble, door latch consist of strike plates, tube
latches and rim lock plates. However, there are latches that can also be
opened without a key.
Materials
Used
Mostly metals are used for making door latches. Some of the common
materials used in the process include:
Door Latch Mechanism
The working principle of a door latch is relatively simple, compact and
easy to install.
- A typical door latch mechanism has a pivoted latch, which is
disposed between a retaining solenoid and a four-bar toggle linkage.
- The toggle linkage is meant for connecting the operating system
of the solenoid to the latch.
- The toggle linkage is also provided with an under-the-center
arrangement in a direction opposite to the solenoid in the latched
position.
- This offers considerable mechanical advantage to strengthen the
holding force of the solenoid.
- When the solenoid is de-energized and pressure is applied to open
the door, the latch pivots and the toggle linkage collapses to
release the keeper bar.
Door Latch Buying Tips
- Door latches should be chosen in such a way that they fit
exactly with the strike plates.
- The quality of the metal chosen for making latches is also
important as the security of the house depends on latches.
- The finish of the door latch should go with the overall
impression of the door and the house.
- The overall finishing of the door latches hardware should be
very smooth so that it does not hurt any individual while
operating it.
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Important Features
- Some door latches have an inside release that is a component on
the inner side of the latch that allows it to be actuated. Again
door latches have mounting holes or slots for securing them to
doors, drawers, or cabinets.
- There are recessed latches that are designed to be mounted in an
indentation in the housing.
- Latches that contain gaskets prevent the entry of environmental
contaminants when used under pressure.
- Weather resistant door latches are also available.
Types of Door Latch
Depending on the door on which they are used door latches can be of the
following types:
Related Resources
Introduction
