Magnetic Door Catch
Door catches are a common mechanical device that is found in every building or home. It is the type of highly dependable and reliable mechanism that goes unnoticed but continuously performs perfectly There are several versions of door catches, most of which are made of metal and involve some form of moving component.
Though metal mechanical door catches are seen the most, another form of door catch, that is designed for unique situations, is the magnetic door catch that consists of a striking pad and a magnet. These types of door catches are normally used on cabinets and lightweight doors.
Quick links to Magnetic Door Catch Information
Advantages of Magnetic Door Catches
The important advantages of using magnets and catch plates are their ease of installation and reliability. Unlike mechanical door catches, these uniquely engineered door latching devices are long lasting and will never need replacement. Once they are properly positioned, they hold any lightweight door permanently in position without the need for a locking mechanism or moving parts.
The unique nature of magnetic door catches makes them the perfect solution to keeping doors closed in a kitchen, laboratory, workshop, or storage room. They open with a simple pull and close by swinging the magnetic toward the catch plate.
Design of Magnetic Door Catches
The design of a magnetic door catch involves the use of a metal plate, which is usually steel, and a mounted magnet. Though it is not necessary, most magnetics for this type of door are encased in plastic with flanges for holes on three sides to attach the magnetic to either the door or the door frame.
The magnets have enough magnetic force to keep the door shut but can be easily disengaged when external force is applied. After the contents of the cupboard or cabinet are removed, the door can be swung shut and the magnet resumes its previous position. The mechanism is easy to operate and remains securely in place.
Magnetic Door Catch Applications
Magnetic door catches are an excellent way of ensuring that doors are securely shut and safe. The special feature of this type of latch is that it has only two pieces with one part attached to the door while the other is attached to the frame of the cabinet, closet, or other types of enclosure.
How the two parts are attached depends on the design of the latch. In some cases, the magnet is on the frame and the catch plate is on the door. In this configuration, the door is lightweight and may not be thick enough to have the magnet attached. The catch plate can be connected using screws or glue to not damage the appearance of the door.
The main use of magnetic door catches is for lightweight doors that are made from materials such as plywood, plastic, or certain metals, which do not require or are unable to support a larger latching mechanism.