Locks and latches are fastening and opening devices which are used to provide safety, privacy and security to interiors of buildings, access portals such as doors and windows, and also to free-standing items like shelves, cabinets and chests. They can also be used to fasten trap-doors, cellar-doors and animal-egress portals.

Usually, latches are simple fastening devices that bring two surfaces together with or without locking facilities. They may be hooked or bolted to ensure closure. However locks ensure that the two surfaces remain shut and can be opened only by intention. Locks may be key or bolt operated and nowadays they are operated by computerized facilities like key-less lock-pads etc.

In high-security areas, very sophisticated latching and locking systems may be used, with access under very strict control and supervision. In homes, locks and latches will additionally have to be child-proof or designed for the convenience of senior citizens, people with disabilities and with ease of operation. The complexity of lock and latch design depends on the applications and functional aspects.

Types of locks:

Commercial locks are cylindrical, mortise or rim types. The mortise locks are the most heavy-duty type of locks and they're used in areas where there is a lot of people movement and where security is important as in factories, commercial buildings etc. The mortise design may be fitted into the door and may have additional cylinders for safety. Cylindrical locks are simpler in design and the outer part is fitted with a knob or lever for operation. Rim locks consist of two components which fit to the edge of the door and the door-frame. All these are designed for different types of keys, both high and low security. Electrically operated or electro-magnetic alarm locks provide high security. Other types like push-button, trigger and privacy locks like those used in public rest-rooms are specially designed for the purpose.

Types of latches:

Latches also range from simple to complex. They may or may not be fitted with locks. The common types of latches are bolt latches which are the basic types used in hotel and hostel room doors with a cross-bar design. They can also be decorative accessories to doors in restaurants, homes and other buildings, where heavy brass latches can become a design statement. Draw latches help to keep the two surfaces fastened and also allow opening when required. These may be pull-draw, rotary design or concealed depending on the requirement.

Based on your specific needs, you can choose the most appropriate locking and latching solutions to provide the optimum safety and security to your buildings, cabinets and private spaces.

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