Draw Latches

Draw Latches

Draw latches, also known as tension or toggle latches, are made to forcibly pull surfaces together and secure them. Consisting of two plates and a strap, this type of latch is very versatile and can be used in a variety of household and office products such as suitcases and briefcases, trunks, tool and jewelry boxes. Larger scale draw latches are found in more industrial settings such as enclosures or fastening trailer panels and windows. Their many uses necessitate a variety of materials. Draw latches can be made of stainless steel, plastic, or rubber. While stainless steel latches provide extra security, plastic and rubber latches are best used when some flexibility is useful in fastening the two surfaces. This flexibility also allows for draw latches to be fit to corners and on hinges.

Each draw latch, regardless of materials used, has two plates and one strap. Each panel to be fastened has one plate attached to it. The strap is attached to one of these plates. The strap is the interconnecting element and fits securely into the adjacent panel, most often inserting into a clip or groove. If the strap is made of steel it flips into place while a plastic or rubber strap is simply stretched. The tension in either type of strap holds the two panels together. The draw latch is disengaged by unhooking the strap. The manufacturing process varies depending on the materials used, but often involves stamping, molding, or both. The components are later assembled.