NEW MINI COMPRESSION LATCH INSTALLS ‘IN A SNAP’WITHOUT SCREWS OR TOOLS

– DIRAK, a global innovator in latches, locks and hinges, has further expanded its extensive compression latch product offering to include a compact size compression latch with an open and close indicator, and incorporating D-SNAP Technology. Until now, screws were required to secure a compression latch on a sheet metal panel. Now, this mini compression latch, incorporating D-SNAP Technology, marketed under the SNAP-LINE brand, is simply snapped into place in the prepared panel. D-SNAP Technology dramatically speeds up the installation process, because no screws, nuts or tools are needed. This saves up to 90% of hardware installation time. Compression latches provide quick and secure closure in applications where compression is required. The smooth function of the DIRAK compression latch aligns the cam behind the frame. First, the cam is turned 90°. Then, with a continuous turning motion the actuator pulls the cam towards the frame for secure latching and compression. DIRAK compression latches are recommended for use on any sheet metal cabinet. DIRAK’s new mini compression latch offers numerous unique features, differentiating it from other compression latches on the market today. The integral red/green indicator allows a user to quickly identify if the latch is in the closed or open position. When the latch is open the red indicator is visible. By turning the easy-to-grip, serrated knob the cam moves into the latched position and the green indicator appears. Once latched, a further turning of the knob begins compression. This latch provides up to 8mm of compression. Most other compression latches require a significant size or interior space. The small, compact size of this latch makes it ideal for applications where space is limited, but compression is required. What makes the SNAP-LINE mini compression latch so unique is a set of spring-loaded wings that are inserted into a channel in the latch housing. This allows the wings to move freely so they can be inserted into the panel cutout. As the wings retract after passing through the cutout, the SNAP-LINE mini compression latch is held securely in place, even in severe vibration applications. Strength and durability are comparable to those products that are installed via traditional assembly methods. The benefit to customers is ease of installation resulting in a significant reduction in assembly time of up to 90%. These latches can even be used for blind assembly. Since the mini compression latch does not require mounting hardware (nuts, bolts, screws) the risk of hardware loosening over time and damaging sensitive electronic equipment is eliminated. Different sizes of spring-loaded wings make it possible to use the mini compression latch in any sheet metal thickness. The bulge in the cutout guarantees a unique and constant fitting. The mini compression latch is suitable for either RH or LH applications. The primary target market for the mini compression latch is the server cabinets in 19” computer industry. Additionally, they are ideal for single point, small to medium size access doors on cabinets and enclosures and therefore require compression. Applications can be found in a broad range of industries including: industrial equipment, machinery, electronics, telecommunications, computers, medical, etc.