Compression locking has become much more popular in recent years by virtue of its two main benefits, i.e. anti-vibration performance and superior gasket sealing. The ability to pull down on the gasket and then lock in place is ever more important for specialist enclosures throughout industry and on specialist vehicles.
This especially applies to EMKA’s two latest contributions to the field – their IP65 wing knob compression latch and their innovative compression latch lock with decompression for HVAC applications.
The new wing knob design makes it suitable for a welter of low access security, high sealing protection roles where ingress of dust and water is a problem, but where ready access is required for personnel, for example in high security areas.
The EMKA 1000 wing knob compression latch with IP65 rating comes in 2 types, each with a full 6mm pull-down. The basic form is adjustable only by use of different cams – its’ companion however provides extra depth adjustment with a threaded rod which considerably extends the reach to match extra deep doors or frames.
The new concept locking hinge from EMKA provides HVAC manufacturers with a full multi-function hinge/latch/lock for securing of big air conditioning units and similar. It provides door adjustment for correct sealing, 5mm gasket pull down with pressure relief and the ability to be used as both door lock and hinge.
This remarkable new locking hinge provides an independent 3D adjustable hinge facility integrated into a compression latch/lock with decompression function. Users can thereby adjust door alignment and open the door, either right hand or left hand hinged – or remove completely. The decompression feature is important for HVAC allowing any over/under-pressure to be vented safely before opening. Locking options include standard round cylinder options.
Other compression locks in the EMKA range include the Program 1000-U852 compact compression latch which is a great idea for specialist enclosure manufacturers looking for a vibration-resistant locking solution to suit small enclosures with restricted available internal depth as often used on commercial vehicles.
The 1000-U852 features a very short body – just 18mm deep – and yet manages to provide a full 4.5mm of compression for gasket pull down on the second 90° of rotation, with a distinct over-centre action. Use of industry standard 20mm “rounded square” hole mounting ensures interchangeability with standard quarter-turn latches, plus the benefits of a compression facility.
The EMKA Program 1000-U846 compression latch benefits from work in the railway industry where visual indication of open/closed status is a major requirement. It also means that users elsewhere, e.g. in road transport or multi-suite cabinet installations, can make use of this high performance compression latch with clear visual status indicator. This is achieved by simply revealing a high visibility red band when the insert extends from the housing as it is opened. Compression of 6mm not only enhances gasket sealing but also adds vibration proofing. Its railway heritage also includes a “high speed” dust cap which maintains IP65 sealing and remains in place even at 450km/h – cleverly and importantly the cap will not close if the latch is open – so maintaining visual safety indication.
Similarly the ability to provide “soft” gasket compression is valuable on cabinets with compression locks and especially those requiring EMC gasket, to ensure a firm contact. Otherwise generally on large door panels where the closure force needs to be distributed over substantial distances or adjusted to allow for manufacturing tolerances.
Consequently the increasing popularity of compression latches and locking mechanisms opens up wider possibilities for gasketing of cabinets and enclosures with many different types of sealing profile – perhaps softer or simply of larger dimensions or with different design of section.
Further information on EMKA products can be found on the EMKA website – www.emka.com/uk_en/company/. Readers can find the latest information and news on the EMKA blog – www.emkablog.co.uk or follow them on twitter – http://twitter.com/emkauk.
