Magnetic Latches (Magnetic Door Catches)
Magnetic latches, also known as magnetic door catches, are a critical type of access hardware. They offer simplicity, convenience, and a low-maintenance design.
As such, magnetic door latches are extremely common in the industrial sector. A high-quality magnetic latch, such as those manufactured by Sierra Pacific Engineering and Products (SPEP), can withstand rigorous daily use and exposure to harsh environmental conditions.
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SPEP Magnetic Door Catch Finishes and Materials
Magnetic door latches come in several varieties and have a range of applications. Here’s everything you need to know about the incredible and versatile magnetic door latch:
Types of Magnetic Latches
SPEP offers a wide range of magnetic catches. Our most popular design is the surface magnetic latch. We also have a recessed magnetic latch. It has a better aesthetic and is popular in consumer-facing applications.
As the name suggests, a surface latch is affixed to the exterior of a door and an adjacent wall or surface. The recessed variant is laid into the door, which helps prevent snags in high-traffic areas. Many clients find the recessed version more appealing for uses like recreational vehicles (RVs), glove boxes, and enclosures.
Thanks to our extensive digital catalog, you can freely explore both types of magnetic latches. In doing so, you will be able to determine which component is the better fit for your project.
As the name suggests, a surface latch is affixed to the exterior of a door and an adjacent wall or surface. The recessed variant is laid into the door, which helps prevent snags in high-traffic areas. Many clients find the recessed version more appealing for uses like recreational vehicles (RVs), glove boxes, and enclosures.
Thanks to our extensive digital catalog, you can freely explore both types of magnetic latches. In doing so, you will be able to determine which component is the better fit for your project.
Magnetic Latch Materials and Finishes
SPEP offers access hardware in a wide range of materials and finishes. Our most robust latches consist of nickel-plated die-cast zinc, and our more durable strike plates are made from zinc-plated steel. These components are durable and corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for rigorous or harsh conditions.
However, we also have more cost-effective plastic latches, which can be a great option for applications that are mildly to moderately demanding. These components come in multiple colors, including black and white.
Our metal components are available in nickel-plated, zinc-plated, and milled finishes. The specific finish and material options available will vary depending on the latch’s model and style.
However, we also have more cost-effective plastic latches, which can be a great option for applications that are mildly to moderately demanding. These components come in multiple colors, including black and white.
Our metal components are available in nickel-plated, zinc-plated, and milled finishes. The specific finish and material options available will vary depending on the latch’s model and style.
Custom Magnetic Door Catches
SPEP has an expert team of in-house engineers who will assist with all of your custom design needs. We can modify the dimensions of existing components, customizing the material, finish, and locking mechanism adaptations based on your unique project specifications.
If you would like to place a special order, connect with SPEP and speak with our engineering team. During our consultative process, we will gather key details about your project and make recommendations to maximize hardware performance and reliability.
If you would like to place a special order, connect with SPEP and speak with our engineering team. During our consultative process, we will gather key details about your project and make recommendations to maximize hardware performance and reliability.
Magnetic Door Latch Strength and Durability
Typically, our magnetic hardware offers closure strength ranging from 5 to 15 lbs. All our components are designed with durability, longevity, and resilience in mind.
These low-maintenance parts can offer years of reliable service, even in the harshest environments. Additionally, our parts are incredibly versatile, allowing you to mount the catch with or without the ferrous striker plate.
These low-maintenance parts can offer years of reliable service, even in the harshest environments. Additionally, our parts are incredibly versatile, allowing you to mount the catch with or without the ferrous striker plate.
Magnetic Latch Applications and Use Cases
As one of the most versatile pieces of access hardware, magnetic latches can be incorporated into a wide range of projects and designs. As you get to work on your next project, make sure to consider magnetic latches as a potential solution for securing doors, hatches, access points, and lids.
What Are Magnetic Latches Used For?
A magnetic latch or catch allows you to secure an enclosure, lid, or door without manually manipulating a locking mechanism. You can operate the access point with just one hand, which provides convenience and ease of access and ensures that the door is secure when not in use.
What’s a Magnetic Latch vs. a Magnetic Door Catch?
A magnetic latch typically refers to the complete piece of hardware, which includes two parts: a magnetized latch and a ferrous metal plate (strike plate). A magnetic door catch may only refer to the magnetized component, which you would affix to a door or enclosure lid. The catch is attracted to an adjacent metal surface.
How Does a Magnetic Door Latch Work?
A magnetic door latch has two core components: a magnetic latch and a ferrous strike plate. The latch attracts to the plate, creating a secure enclosure. By pushing or pulling on the door, you break the magnetic forces between the two parts. As you close the door, the parts reconnect.
What Are the Main Applications of a Magnetic Latch (Magnetic Door Catch)?
A magnetic latch has applications in a broad range of industries, including the aerospace, automotive, and commonly in industrial sectors. For example, you can attach a magnetic door catch to an enclosure to offer a secure fit and promote convenience. This hardware is used in glove boxes, compartments, and other small enclosures.
How Do I Install a Magnetic Door Catch?
Installing a magnetic latch is quite straightforward. You simply:
- Choose your location
- Mark drill holes on the door and wall or adjacent surface
- Affix the strike plate and magnetic part
- Ensure proper alignment