Plastic Access Hardware

We offer various types of swing handles such as:

• Key locking swing handles
• Electric locking
• 2-point locking
• Keyed to differ

Whether it’s a non-locking/locking slam latch, a non-locking/locking snap-in slide latch, a push to close latch, a t handle compression latch, or a paddle handle latch, we’ve got you covered and provide all of these in our best-selling plastic. Not to mention, wing knob quarter turn locks and pull handles are also popular plastic access hardware sellers. Lastly, our variety of plastic hinges include detent, friction, screw-on, and concealed pin hinges.

Corrosion & Chemical Resistance:

Certain grades of plastic components are ideal for environments where moisture or chemical exposure is a concern, due to the fact that they can be resistant to chemicals, water or UV.  
This makes them a great alternative to metal (steel or zinc for example)  for applications where you still require high strength and resistance, but at a lower cost and product weight.

IP Ratings:

Our plastic access hardware has IP ratings ranging from IP40 to IP66.

IP40 protects against solid objects over 1mm. This makes plastic hardware, such as locks and latches, with this rating suitable for mainly indoor use. 

IP54 partially protects against dust and protects against splashes of water, making it a good option for handles and latches in enclosures that will not be subjected to harsh weather conditions. 

IP65 fully protects against dust and low-pressure water jets, it is often used for handles, locks, and latches that are indoors and outdoors.

IP66 fully protects against dust and high-pressure water jets, making the hardware an ideal choice for almost any environment.

Customisation & Finishes:

Some of our plastic hardware is also available in the following finishes: black  or bright chrome.

FAQs:

What are the benefits of using plastic access hardware?

The main advantages of using plastic access hardware include:

• Lightweight
• Non-conductive (safe for electrical applications)
• Long lifespan with minimal maintenance
• Certain grades are corrosion resistant

Is plastic access hardware weather-resistant?

Our different grades of plastic access hardware have various levels of weather resistance. All of our plastic hardware is tested to be UV resistant of up to 1000 hours. 

Acetal plastic is great for use in both indoor and outdoor applications and it performs excellently in wet environments. This makes it a suitable option for weather-resistant hardware. 

Polycarbonate can be treated to withstand UV rays, and it is resistant to dilute acids and alcohols  – however, it is not resistant to other chemicals including alkalis and certain hydrocarbons (a chemical compound). 

Nylon is resistant to a lot of chemicals including solvents and oils, and it is water resistant however it is not waterproof. 

Our hardware made of ABS plastic can resist many chemicals; however, it may be affected by sunlight and UV overtime, meaning acetal plastic would be the best material when choosing your weather-resistant hardware.  

Are plastic components as strong as metal ones?

Metal has higher UV resistance and is less likely to scratch or crack due to stress, and generally speaking, it is stronger than plastic. Although, modern plastic can be made to be just as strong as metal, and it is much lighter. To break it down, ABS plastic, Acetal plastic, and Nylon are strong and stiff, meaning they can withstand stress and heavy loads and are extremely durable. Polycarbonate has excellent strength properties, and it is also shatter-resistant.  

Can I use plastic locks and latches on outdoor environments?

Depending on how harsh the environment is, you may need a higher level of weather resistance. Therefore, if your application was in an extremely wet environment, a lock or latch made from acetal plastic would be suitable. However, if the application only gets a little bit wet, nylon hardware would be sufficient.

What is the difference between using stainless steel or plastic hardware?

Stainless steel hardware will offer a higher level of protection against, weather, chemicals, and corrosion than plastic would. However, some plastics will offer enough protection for your specific environment and therefore can be a more cost-effective option.

We offer a wide range of access hardware in plastic, including locks, latches, hinges, and handles. 

Benefits of choosing plastic access hardware include its non-conductive properties, lightweight, resistant against corrosion (depending on the grade), cost-effective, and low maintenance. Plastic is commonly used as an alternative to metal hardware when extreme resistance is not required, and a cost-effective but reliable product is necessary. 

At Metrol, we pride ourselves on delivering only the best quality of plastic access hardware that is not only durable but also an aesthetically pleasing product. Our customer service team would be more than happy to assist you with any queries you may have regarding plastic access hardware.

Benefits of Plastic Hardware:

Plastic hardware is an affordable option that requires little to no upkeep with all the benefits of it being easy to install and unable to conduct electricity. It is commonly used in enclosures and cabinets to secure the space with locks/latches and aid movement with hinges. Plastic hardware is a great option for the electromechanical industry due to grease and oil not affecting the material.

Industry Applications:

Plastic access hardware can be used in a range of industries such as food and drink, pharmaceuticals, marine, transport, agriculture, electromechanical, and automotive. 

Acetal plastic, nylon and abs plastic are all considered to be food safe plastics, and they are also BPA free  (Bisphenol A – which has hormone-like properties that can negatively affect the body).

Polycarbonate isn’t usually BPA  free; however, it can be specifically made to be. This means ABS and acetal plastic would be the most suitable plastics for the food and pharmaceutical industries due to them being able to withstand regular clean downs to prevent contamination of the product. 

ABS plastic, acetal plastic, polycarbonate, and nylon are all suitable for the marine industry due to their ability to withstand the impacts of saltwater.

Nylon, acetal plastic, and polycarbonate can all work in high temperature ranges. Acetal plastic is ideal for the transport industry where it will be exposed to harsh weather elements, various temperatures, and debris.

Plastic vs Metal Comparison:

Plastic, whilst durable, can be affected by high temperatures or heavy loads, whereas stainless steel can perform in higher temperatures and under a lot of stress. 

Plastic hardware is a more cost-effective option than stainless steel and it requires little to no upkeep. Plastic is classed as an insulator and therefore does not conduct heat – making it a great option for applications such as handles and locks. Metal does conduct heat and could start to feel very hot to the touch in certain circumstances – therefore to ensure your application is ergonomically friendly, you may consider opting away from metal handles and locks. 

Another example would be choosing a plastic latch over a metal one – this is especially ideal for boats or applications that are often in the sun. Aesthetics wise, plastic and stainless steel both have clean finishes and overall, it could come down to personal preference.  

Speak to us today:

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