Structural latch assemblies

Structural latch assemblies

Structural latch assemblies are used in applications requiring elevated static and dynamic load-carrying capability for larger structures, where ease of access for passenger entry, cargo loading or maintenance is required.

Hook latches and keeper assemblies offer high reliability and quick access when mounted onto engine fan cowls, fairings or thrust reverser structures. Low-profile latches provide ease of closure and can be used in limited access areas. Adjustable hook latches are used in restricted envelopes where an adjustable keeper cannot be installed. The adjustment property offers quick rigging of the latch.

Rotary latches, which are available in rotary cam or hook-actuated versions, are used where high strength is required in limited space. They can be operated using standard hex or square-drive tools.

Access door mechanisms

Access door mechanisms

Access door mechanisms provide ease of entry into frequently accessed panels, doors and hatches.

Pressure relief door latches provide controlled, pressurization-sensitive release loads for engine cowls, fairings and thrust reverser doors. We also offer variations, including thick door, high temperature, flush button, adjustable bolt push button, and heavy- or light-duty latches.

Push-button latches are available in both one- and two-push button designs. The simplified “button” release offers ease of manual operation, facilitating activation if maintenance is performed while wearing heavy gloves.

Hinges are used on a variety of door and panel applications. Gooseneck hinges are used for pressure relief doors and for smaller applications such as fuel access doors. Double-acting hinges provide additional clearance for restricted areas, where full exposure of the door cavity is required. Hinges are available in both aluminum for light-duty applications and corrosion resistant steel for heavy-duty or high-temperature applications.

Latch handle systems

Latch handle systems

Latch handle systems comprise various types of mechanisms and provide a means of activating latch systems where access to, or visual contact of, the latch mechanism is limited. Flush handle assemblies are used for cargo, APU or emergency door access.

Remotely operated latching systems are designed for fan cowl, engine fairing and thrust reverser systems.

Multiple-pin latch assemblies are used to stow removable or hinged door panels in interior or exterior applications.

Non-structural latches

Non-structural latches

Pawl latches are designed to secure hinged panels and small doors. To secure the panel or small door, the pawl engages the frame structure through the axial rotation of an actuator. The actuator turns a wire-form or solid arm pawl to engage or disengage the latch to allow for the opening or closing of the small door or panel.

Camloc® tension latches are used to install light- to heavy-duty hinged doors, panels and structures. These latches provide an adjustable, high-performance method that is ideal for securing machine and equipment parts that must be opened or removed frequently.

Benefits:

  • Locking and unlocking the fastener is simple – simply clip/unclip the handle.
  • Excellent tensile load-carrying capacity reduces the number of fasteners required.
  • Tolerance adjustments through draw-hook mechanism allow for variations in latch and strike proximity.
  • The latches are also available with a secondary locking mechanism, increasing vibration resistance.

 

Clamps are used for the installation and maintenance of wire bundles, hoses, tubing, cable and conduits. They provide split-second access to clamped material with vibration-resistant Camloc® 1/4-turns. They are available in hand- or tool-operated head-styles. Some styles have liners that allow positive clamping of material without damage.

Hold-Down Mechanisms for Avionics

Chassis latches are offered in a wide variety of styles and strengths. Many are used for removable electronic drawers and can seat multiple-pin connectors or RFI gaskets.
 
Hold-down devices are designed to secure avionics boxes and modules in a variety of aerospace applications.

Self-compensating injector/ejector levers provide consistent self-compensation for circuit board installation tolerances. With minimal finger pressure, multiple-pin or fiberoptic connections can be seated with controlled forces ranging from 20 to 80 pounds.

Wedg-Tite® retainers securely fasten printed circuit boards while providing heat transfer paths. Constructed for reliability, the Wedg-Tite® retainer has a stop nut to prevent accidental disassembly and a spring element that prevents wedge segments from rotating in the unlocked position. A unique built-in torque limiter is available for accurate, controlled force installation without the use of a torque wrench and is ideal for use in high-vibration environments.

Hydraulic snubbers

Hydraulic snubbers

Hydraulic snubber assemblies are used as dampening devices for radome and tail cone applications. The hydraulic fluid-filled cylinder provides for dual-speed operation in the opening and closing directions. The tail cone snubbers are equipped with a remote lock-release mechanism to facilitate closure.  Reference s20311t603

Assembly integration capability

Assembly integration capability

We can integrate our latches, hinges and other fasteners for customers requiring complete fabrication of their assemblies or sub-assemblies, such as pressure relief doors or other applications.

Specialty latches

Howmet Fastening Systems’ custom designs are uniquely suited for reliable performance in punishing environments. With design and manufacturing in Torrance, California, and Kelkheim, Germany, we are exceptionally positioned to support the global need for innovative, engineered latching mechanisms as well as avionics hardware product solutions.