Latches are fantastic mechanical devices used to keep doors or other similar surfaces closed. However when your enclosure needs to be sealed tightly against dust and moisture, be it an electrical enclosure, a telecom locker, or a cooling chamber, you need a compression latch.

There are several types of different latches, and in this guide, we'll discuss compression latches, what they are, and how they work in greater detail. We'll also discuss different types of compression latches, their applications, installation procedures, and where you can get compression latches if you ever need them.

A compression latch is essentially a cam latch, in any of its various forms, consisting of both the base and the cam lever.  However, unlike traditional cam latches, compression latches compress gaskets against doors and panel openings when they close, thus providing a tight seal. As such, they're fantastic for applications in specific environmental requirements, like protection against moisture, rain, water, dust, or even vibration and electrical interference.

Similar to regular cam latches, compression lathes can also feature a T-handle or even a locking mechanism to prevent unauthorized use. There are two types of compression latches: fixed compression latches with fixed cams that provide consistent compression and adjustable compression latches that work similarly to typically adjustable cam latches. The latter, however, allows you to adjust the compression and decompression over time.

Compression latches work on the same principle as typical quarter-turn cam latches. As such, they're a reliable solution to hold the doors and panels shut while simultaneously offering protection from water, dust, vibration, and even electromagnetic interference, in enclosures that require such measures.

We can actuate the compression latch by tuning its base with a key, a cam lever, a T-handle, or any other type of quick-action fastening device. By compressing the gasket surrounding the enclosure opening with consistent force, we're closing all the gaps that would otherwise allow dirt, water, or even insects inside.

Here's a quick video explaining how quarter-turn compression latches work:

As seen in the video, there are two types of compression latches suitable for different applications. Heavy-duty applications might require a compression toggle latch, which provides higher latching forces and lower operating effort. On the other hand, moderate and lighter applications don't require large amounts of compression, so a regular actuation by a handle, button, or key locking should do the trick.

We suggest compression latches with a fixed cam for precise and quick installations, which is often the ideal solution. They require no adjustments and provide minimal intrusion into the space that is being sealed.

In contrast, applications with greater variances require the use of compression latches with adjustable grip range. These are adjusted according to the application and the required compression while offering compensation for various tolerances, reducing long-term management and maintenance costs.

One last factor you should consider is accessibility. Enclosures that are accessed frequently and by hand usually require non-locking latches that feature T-handles, knobs, or levers such as flush triggers as operating mechanisms.

However, secure environments may require limited access to authorized personnel only. For example, a simple compression latch equipped with a locking mechanism that requires a key or a special kind of tool to operate might be necessary.

Using compression latches over typical ones has several benefits, especially in specific applications that demand protection against water, for example. Electrical enclosures, telecom equipment lockers, industrial generators, and HVAC system components have two things in common: they're sensitive to elements and can cause vibrations and noise.

Industrial machines are rarely quiet and often produce vibrations, which easily transfer to the machine's enclosure. If, by any chance, there's no protection gasket in between the enclosure's door and the opening panel, things are going to vibrate and make noise. Compression latches are optimal for effectively reducing both vibration and noise, since the gasket absorbs and neutralizes some of the vibrations.

Additionally, compression latches seal out dust, water, and even moisture from the environment by compressing the gasket between the door and panel opening. This is great, especially when it comes to electrical machines and telecom equipment, which is usually sensitive to water and dust.

Most industrial latches are made of stainless steel or black powder-coated zinc alloy, which gives them an IP65 rating, making them "dust tight" and waterproof against rain.

The aforementioned equipment you might be trying to protect is usually operated by authorized personnel. If that's the case, we suggest opting for a latch that can be secured with a padlock or a compression cam lock. Compression locks use keys or specialized tools to operate, making them great for keeping unauthorized people out.

The last major benefit we want to mention is that compression latches are just as easy to install as regular cam latches. You'll probably need some tools, like a drill, a screwdriver, perhaps some washers and screws, or some rivets, and no more than 15 minutes if you're good with your hands. If not, you might want to ask someone to show you how it's done.

We should point out that adjustable compression latches require some minor adjustments after mounting to determine the correct compression. However, gaskets, though easy to install and replace, lose their shape and elasticity with time, and adjustable cam locks allow users to adjust the compression over time.

Purchasing a compression latch for whatever application you need is as easy as going out to a brick-and-mortar store or visiting an online shop and buying one. However, things aren't always as simple as they may seem, and there are several details you'll need to account for other than just the type of latch you want. 

To choose the ideal latch for your application, you must consider how much compression is needed in the first place. This usually depends on the amount of vibration both the enclosure and the latch have to withstand and the size of the gasket that's being compressed. All compression latches withstand vibrations, though adjustable latches have a clear advantage since you can adjust them to compensate for the gasket tolerances.

The physical environment may also pose a challenge for the latch, so besides choosing your latch according to the application requirement, you must also consider the environment. For example, exterior applications must withstand the elements and perhaps even chemical exposure like solvents or rain.

For example, latches made of die-cast zinc are exceptionally sturdy, so they can withstand a few blows, and they won't rust. The same can be said for plated latches. As a result, zinc-plated and chrome-plated latches not only look good, but they're also stain-resistant.

To ensure the complete efficiency of your compression latch, you must follow several important steps:

• Select the installation cutout — It's important that the dimensions of the lock match the cutout in the door or the panel. If it's too big, the latch won't be effective, and if it's too small, you won't be able to mount the latch. It also helps to know the door thickness or the panel thickness before purchasing a fixed compression latch. Then, adjustable latches can compensate for the thickness of the panel.
• Choose the right materials — After selecting the installation cutout, the next step is to pick the latch material and the handle. There's plenty of materials to choose from, like zinc alloys, stainless steel, chrome- and zinc-plated metals, etc. This also includes selecting the right body type of your latch. Apart from the aforementioned handle and lever latches, there are also low-profile options, like trigger latches, raised triggers, and push latches.
• Key selection — Opting for a compression latch lock also means you get to choose what type of key you want to use. Rounded, tubular, and flat keys are the most frequently used, though some users opt for cylinder or hex keys.
• Accessories — Depending on the type of the locking mechanism or the handle, there are several accessories you can choose from. These include various dust caps, finger pulls, fasteners, inserts, spacers, and adapters.

Compression latches are a fantastic way to ensure that your enclosures stay sealed against dust and water. It's important to consider the right product made of high-quality material for your application, so it's imperative to find a reliable and trusted supplier.

Compression cam latches offered by Reid Supply are made of exceptionally durable and reliable high-quality materials. These come in a variety of brands, types, colors, and finishes, featuring different locking and operating mechanisms and handle shapes. If you're interested in purchasing compression latches, or have any additional questions regarding the products we offer, visit us at our website.