What Is a Slide Latch?
A slide latch is a type of lock. A latch is a structural component of a lock that is used to keep a door closed or to assist in unlocking a door. There are many configurations and types of slide latches, and one should select the most appropriate slide latch for the door, or doors, in which it is installed.
Uses of Slide Latches
Slide latches are generally used for locking doors from the interior and are often used on sliding doors in Japanese-style rooms. A wide range of slide latches are available from multiple manufacturers. Slide latches are manufactured from materials, including iron, stainless steel, aluminum, resin, and even wood, depending on the environment in which they are used.
Principle of Slide Latches
The basic structure of a slide latch lock is a clasp that slides a movable part and inserts it into a receiving fitting to close and secure the door. There are a variety of derived types with different handle parts and bolt shapes, allowing you to choose the best one for your needs. The most common type is the slide latch, which can be inserted or pulled out without the bolt shifting. The material is stainless steel for increased strength. Other types, such as P-shaped, or ring-shaped latches with distinctive handles that can be operated with a bolt, as typified by the P latch. Other types have a U-shaped handle on which a padlock can be attached. This type is mainly useful for adding a padlock later when reinforcing security measures are required. There are slide latches that can be locked by pushing in the bolt or easily operated with just a push button.