Swell and Toggle latches

Materials & Finishes

Die cast zinc alloy, stainless steel 304, and steel toggle latches are available. Metrol offer die cast zinc alloy swell latches that have a black textured powder coated finish, and are salt spray tested to over 300 hours. 

Our toggle latches come in a range of finishes-

• Black powder coated: salt spray tested to over 300 hours
• Satin chrome: salt spray tested to over 72 hours
• Polished
• Zinc plated

Swell and Toggle Latch materials:

• Die cast zinc alloy
• Stainless steel 304
• Steel 

Swell and Toggle Latch finishes:

• Black powder coated
• Black textured powder coated
• Polished 
• Satin chrome
• Zinc plated

Both non locking and key locking latch types are available. 

Small and large toggle latches are available with universal panel cutouts . This makes them compatible with industry standard cutouts and other branded lock products that are on the market.

Swell and toggle latches must be installed in their closed position in order for the secure seal and lock functions to work. 

Compatible products:

Swell and toggle latches are compatible with a range of different products such as doors, panels, cabinets, toolboxes, access hatches, and enclosures. 

Our non-locking swell and toggle latches can be used alongside our locks in matching materials and finishes to enhance the aesthetic of your application. The same goes for using Metrol hinges alongside your latch – all our hardware is designed to work seamlessly together. 

Latch mechanisms and locking variations:

The main difference is a toggle latch doesn't provide anti vibration and as strong of a seal than a swell latch; however, a swell latch requires a larger panel cutout for installation. The swell latch works with applications where the two surfaces are in-line (one behind the other) whereas a toggle latch will pull two surfaces closer together laterally.

While swell latches are better suited to applications where an ingress of contaminants needs to be prevented, toggle latches still provide a level of protection against bigger particles from entering the object. 

Benefits of a swell latch include no water, dust, or unwanted particles entering the secured space. A toggle latch can be installed quickly  and easily and is useful in rapid opening and access of a space, whilst keeping it firmly secure.  

Benefits of Using Toggle & Swell Latches:

A swell latch provides quick access to a space whilst offering protection against contaminants by its strong protective grip. This secure seal will come into place when the handle is triggered, no extra tools are necessary. 
Toggle latches are a reliable and strong way of securing the application, they also come with a quick release operation. 

Industry & Uses Cases:

Swell and toggle latches are commonly used in original equipment manufacturer enclosures and transport containers because of their secure fastening and quick access properties. They are also widely used in the marine industry for this same reason, however; a swell latch may be more beneficial for added protection against water intrusion. 

Need help finding the right latch? Contact our team today to get started and continue chatting with us via WhatsApp or email.

FAQs:

What is the difference between a toggle latch and a latch?

A toggle latch operates by pulling two surfaces towards each other in a lateral direction, whereas a swell latch will clamp two surfaces that are in front/behind each other.  A swell latch has properties that minimise vibrations and create a very strong compression, while a toggle latch does not provide these. 
T he main difference is a toggle latch doesn't provide anti vibration and as stronger a seal than a swell latch; however, a swell latch requires a larger panel cutout for installation. The swell latch works with applications where the 2 surface are in-line (one behind the other) whereas a toggle latch will pull to surfaces closer together laterally.

What are toggle latches used for?

Toggle latches are used for applications that regularly require being fastened and undone, whilst being secure and strong. An example of this is storage boxes on a boat. 

How do swell latches work?

Swell latches function by expanding  when the lever mechanism is triggered. This expansion creates a seal which prevents any unwanted contaminants from entering the secured object. 

Are these latches suitable for outdoor use?

Our stainless steel 304  toggle latch is suitable for use in outdoor environments. When in contact with large amounts of chloride and high temperatures simultaneously, the material may begin to corrode.

Our die cast zinc alloy swell and toggle latches can be used in outside environments that do not have highly acidic or alkaline waters. 

Steel toggle latches have an oxide layer which prevents corrosion resistance against most natural waters and environments – therefore making them suitable for outdoor use too.