More options for compression latches

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Dec 8, 2004

Southco has added several new options to its innovative "Vise Action" compression latch series - an expanded range of stainless-steel offerings and a new chrome finish option over die-cast zinc.

Southco has unveiled several new offerings to its innovative "Vise Action" compression latch series - an expanded range of stainless steel offerings and a new chrome finish option over die-cast zinc.

These new additions provide design engineers with even more compression latch options to address the environments in which their components will perform - especially in situations where vibration, noise or environmental and EMI/RFI sealing are a concern.

The expanded range of stainless steel vice-action latches now includes the popular, manually operated knob series in both large and small sizes, and multiple key- and tool-operated versions that provide increased safety and security.

These latches combine the nonscrape compression benefits of the Vise Action series with the superior strength, corrosion resistance and heavy-duty durability of stainless steel.

The latches are sealed internally and externally, and designed to withstand both indoor and outdoor environments-meeting the demanding corrosion-resistance and sealing requirements specified in the IP65 and NEMA 4 standards used in numerous industries.

In testing, these latches successfully passed 500 hours of salt spray testing.

For customers looking for the aesthetic appearance of stainless steel without the corrosion-resistance features of stainless, the new Vise Action chrome finish option over die-cast zinc material is an attractive option.

The new finish option offers design engineers the ability to offer their components with a latch featuring a bright, aesthetic appearance.

All new latch offerings provide the proven performance that the Vise Action series of compression latches have provided for more than 20 years.

As with all Southco Vise Action series latches, these new offerings undergo extensive computer-aided design and analysis to ensure that they satisfy performance requirements.

The products are then fully tested to demanding specifications before manufacture in Southco's world-class facilities that are operated according to procedures set forth under Southco's ISO9001 and ISO/TS16949 registration.

Both the new stainless offerings and chrome finish option join a line of Vise Action series solutions that have a reputation for offering the highest compression and ergonomic superiority to any latch in its class.

With their one-handed actuation - through manual, tool or key-operated user input, Southco's Vise Action latch series provides the ideal combination of aesthetics, simplicity of operation and versatility at important user touch points.

The versatility of the line, encompassing more than 40 access styles, multiple finishes and materials, and a range of sizes and grips provides design engineers with an array of compression latch options that is unmatched in the industry today.

These latches have been proven in network, telecommunications and computer enclosures; on rail coaches, transit buses and recreational vehicles; on off-highway, agricultural and construction equipment; and in lighting, HVAC and industrial machinery applications.