Quarter-Turn Latches & Cams
Quarter-turn latches, also known as compression latches, are a locking system that uses a 90-degree, or quarter-turn, design to secure and release components. They are appreciated for their simplicity, reliability, convenience, and quick-access functionalities. Quarter-turn latches are used for various industrial, commercial, and domestic applications.
As the name suggests, the locking system works by a simple quarter-turn mechanism. Quarter-turn latches typically consist of a key or a tool-operated locking cylinder and a cam that serves as the locking element. When the operator inserts the key and turns it, the cam rotates to either its locked or unlocked position.
Despite their simplistic design, quarter-turn latches offer enhanced accessibility and protection when users need entry to an area quickly without compromising security. A quarter-turn cam latch is used to fasten electrical cabinets, access panels, industrial machinery, HVAC systems, computer server racks, and other enclosures. Discover more about quarter-turn cam latches and our selection.
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Types of Quarter Turn Latches
Quarter-turn latches can be key-locking or non-locking depending on the application. They are constructed with a variety of materials, such as stainless steel, chrome plated, black powder coated, zinc plated, polyamide, zinc alloy, and more.
There are two main types of quarter-turn latches:
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Single-Point Quarter Turn Latch
A single-point quarter-turn latch is a locking mechanism that uses a quarter-turn to engage and disengage a keeper at a specific point, usually halfway up an enclosure. The latch is made up of a cam, housing, nut, insert, washer, and screw. It can be operated with a key, handle, or knob to turn the locking mechanism.
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Multi-Point Quarter Turn Latch
A multi-point quarter-turn fastening system features multiple latching points that are controlled by a single actuating point.The type of latch system can be integrated with various handle latches, including swing handles, T-handles, L-handles, and paddle handles. Multi-point lockable latches provide enhanced security and clamping force. These make them ideal for applications that require high vibration and shock resistance or a tight seal across the gasket.
Some of the many quarter-turn latch designs available from Sierra Pacific Engineering and Products (SPEP) include:
- Slotted arrow
- Hex
- Recessed hex
- Thumb turn
- 7 mm square
- 8 mm square
- Key lockable
- Padlockable
- L-handle
- Double bit
- Triangular