Latches & Keeper Assemblies - Latches
Hook Latches
A wide variety of configurations ranging from flat to contoured, to protruding to low profile with variable load requirement, are available. Adjustable hooks or keepers compensate for wear and adjust latch preload. Standard designs able to withstand up to 15,000 lbs. ultimate tension load. Latches have a trigger as a secondary locking feature in addition to the primary over-the-center hook mechanism. Some latches have secondary safety features that allow the handle to be closed only when the latch is engaged with mating keeper.
Flush & Push Button Latches
These latches are available in many styles, which operate with a push, pull or slide trigger release. Flushness with the parent material prevents snagging or drag. Bolt offset can be adjusted for different panel thickness.
Shear Pin & Slide Bolt Latches
These latches are designed to carry shear type loads. They can be operated by sliding the pin or bolt in or out of the load-carrying area or receptacle. The pin angle can be adjusted to align with mating hole in the structure. Micro switches can be added as a visual indicator that the latch is locked or unlocked. On large panels, shear pin latches are usually used in conjunction with hook latches.
Pawl Latches
These latches use a cam action to not only lock a door but also to take-up and compress the door gasket preventing electromagnetic interference.
Over-the-Center & V-Band Latches
These latches are available in various styles for cases, boxes and crates. The V-band latches incorporate folding handles that allow for a mechanical advantage during closing. They produce high preload with long handle leverage. The T-bolt is adjustable for proper preload or engagement. A secondary safety feature allows the handle to close only when the latch is engaged with mating keeper.
Pressure Relief Latches
These latches are normally used on engine cowls. They automatically release under a pre-determined load to release pressure on the cowling. Actuate with a standard screw driver. Pre-set loads at the factory to handle precise loads within +/- 10% of load tolerance. Latches allow bleed-off of excessive pressures to prevent damage to vital internal hardware.
Folding Handles
These handles are for electronic boxes and drawers. They fold out of the way after installation. They are also used as a carrying handle when the box or drawer is removed. Up to 3 positive handle locking positions if required. Handle is able to withstand high side load in case of mishandling or accident.
Chassis Latches & Keepers
These latches are used on electronic doors, drawers and black boxes. They combine the hold-down feature with the need to have a carrying handle. Some can be removed during flight. Keepers are also available. Keepers with different combination of load and compensating travel are available.
Hinges & Inspection Plates
Gooseneck hinges open the randome or door out of the way. Various style spring-loaded plates are available to allow access to areas that require inspection.
Rotary Latches
Flush mounted rotary latches are usually actuated with a tool. The internal eccentric cam design allows tension take-up. A warning flag indicates whether the latch is locked or unlocked.
Keepers & Eyebolts
Adjustable or non-adjustable keepers or eyebolts are mated with a hook or a rotary latch. These keepers are adjusted to apply the correct preload. Adjustable keepers can be adjusted to provide tension load to the latch while it is still engaged. Slotted holes in the mounting plate allow for adjustment. Special keeper housings are available for mounting.
Overhead Baggage Rack Latches
These latches are used on commercial planes to open and close baggage compartments. Various materials, including plastic, are available. Some latches have interlock system with hook design to withstand high loads and vibration. These latches provide passengers a storage compartment that is easy to open and secures tightly to prevent opening during flights.