When Did They Start Using Metal Cabinet Latches Dates

Metal cabinet latches have been in use for over a century, with the earliest patented designs dating back to the late 1800s. The evolution of metal cabinet latches reflects the history of furniture design and manufacturing technology. Understanding when different latch types emerged provides insight into the development of cabinetry and hardware over time.

The Origins of Metal Cabinet Latches

Metal latches for cabinets and doors have their beginnings in the 19th century as furniture makers sought more durable and decorative hardware options.

Early Metal Latch Patents

One of the earliest patents for a metal cabinet latch was granted in 1893 to W.A. Schade of New York City for a “latch for doors of cabinets”. His latch design included a spring-loaded bolt with a curved handle.

In 1884, Isaiah Smead received a patent for a “latch for gates, doors, and similar structures” that featured a flat metal bar fastened with a pivoting bolt. This was one of the first documented pivotal latch designs made specifically for doors and cabinets.

Growth of the Furniture Industry

The use of metal latches expanded along with the furniture industry in America. Through the late 1800s, furniture makers transitioned from small artisan shops to larger factories able to produce more standardized designs.

This shift to factory production increased the use of metals, machine-made parts, and new hardware options including hinges, handles, and latches. Metal latches provided durability and ornamentation compared to older wooden latch designs.

The Rise of Cast Metal in the Early 1900s

The early 20th century saw further expansion of metal latches thanks to advancements in casting technology.

Zamak Alloy Latches Emerge

In the 1920s-1930s, die casting allowed furniture makers to produce more complex latch hardware affordably out of zinc alloys sometimes called Zamak.

This led to Art Deco latches with geometric styling along with stronger pivoting latch mechanisms. Zamak remained a popular latch material through the 1950s-60s before higher-strength alloys became more common.

Growth of Stamped Steel Latches

From the 1930s-1950s, many manufacturers switched to using stamped steel rather than cast zinc for latches. Stamping provided higher strength and allowed for streamlined forms fitting popular Mid-Century Modern styles.

Steel continued growing as a dominant latch material through the 1970s before being partially displaced by stainless steel and other alloys.

Post-War Developments – New Materials & Mechanisms

Major events like WWII and the Space Age fueled Innovation in latches, hinges, and other hardware.

Stainless Steel & Aluminum Latches

From the 1950s onward, stainless steel and aluminum alloys allowed for strong, corrosion-resistant latches. Stainless latches maintain their shiny silver appearance without tarnishing or rust.

Extruding technology enabled complex stainless latch profiles unattainable with casting or stamping. Periods like Mid-Century Modern and Googie/Space Age utilized these materials.

Innovations in Latch Mechanisms

New mechanisms also emerged, like self-closing latches using spring or magnetic systems rather than gravity alone. Push-to-open latches operated by pressing rather than turning a handle appeared in the 1960s-70s.

U-shaped roller catches gained popularity in the 1950s-60s as well. Nylon and plastic components became more common in latch mechanisms starting in the 1970s too.

The Evolution of Modern Cabinet Latches

Today’s latches represent both a return to traditional designs and new innovations still unfolding.

Revival of Brass & Bronze

Brass and bronze have made a major comeback since the 1990s, viewed as warm and antique looking. lost wax casting allows intricate brass latches unachievable by other means. Bronze provides great strength for larger latches.

Hidden and Magnetic Latches

Concealed latches like touch latches give a minimalist look allowing doors to open via magnetic attraction or electronic releases. Automatic self-closing mechanisms have become more sophisticated as well.

Smart Latches & Locks

“Smart” latches and locks now integrate digital features like fingerprint scanning or remote operation via smartphone apps. They represent the continuing desire for improved security, connectivity, and convenience.

This long history reveals how latches evolved across different eras along with manufacturing capabilities, style trends, and changing needs for opening and securing cabinet doors. From early pivoting latches to today’s electronically actuated designs, they remain an essential component improving furniture function and aesthetics. The use of metal ensures latches will endure for generations to come.

Common Types of Metal Cabinet Latches

There are numerous types of latches used on cabinets, each with advantages for different situations. Here are some of the most popular designs that have emerged over the decades:

Roller Catches

• Roller catches consist of a spring-loaded ball bearing that rolls into a strike plate when closed.
• They easily self-align and make minimal noise when operated. Good for alignment issues.
• Popular on boats, RVs, and furniture subject to shifting or vibration.
• Provide a firm closure but easier to open than magnetic catches.
• First patented in 1921 by Jay Burns of the Burns Utensil Company.

Bullet Catches

• Bullet catches function via a rounded spring-loaded bullet that engages into a hollow strike plate.
• Allow flush mounting on cabinet faces. No protruding parts when closed.
• Make a distinct clicking noise when closing to indicate full engagement.
• Require careful alignment between bullet and strike plate.
• Have been used since the late 1800s on jewelry boxes, chests, and fine cabinets.

Magnetic Catches

• Use embedded magnets to securely pull doors or panels closed without manual latching.
• Allow for hidden/concealed latches with automatic alignment and closing.
• Require minimal physical effort to disengage and open.
• Provide a tight closure and resistance to vibration.
• Modern rare earth magnets give enhanced strength over early magnetic latches.

Swing Bar & Hasp Latches

• Swing bar latches pivot at one end and hook over a hasp or staple.
• Offer a traditional latch appearance on cabinets, jewelry boxes, and window shutters.
• Often made as cast brass or bronze hardware.
• Lift-to-open design does not allow slamming closed like some latches.
• Historical swing bar latches date to medieval chests and doors.

Spring Loaded Latches

• Feature internal springs to provide automatic closing and retention of doors.
• Reduce the need for manually pushing or slamming doors to engage.
• Self-closing types help ensure doors are properly latched when closed.
• Can be used on cabinets lacking self-closing hinges.
• Come in a wide range of shapes and materials like steel, brass, or plastic.

Draw Latches & Pulls

• Have a handle that draws in a spring-loaded bolt when rotated open.
• Used on gates, cabinets, campers, machinery guards, and commercial doors.
• Enable quick one-handed opening just by pulling the handle.
• Often feature safety mechanisms like catches to prevent accidental opening.
• Based on 19th century tool box and chest latches.

Twist Latches

• Utilize a rotating handle to engage and disengage a bolt from a strike plate.
• Quickly lock doors with just a twist of the handle in either direction.
• Come in T-handle, paddle, and loop styles to suit different aesthetics.
• Suitable for interior cabinets, furniture, RV doors, toolboxes, and more.
• Developed from early barrel bolts and rotating latch designs.

This overview shows the diversity of metal latches invented over the years. Each provides unique benefits while sharing attributes like strength, corrosion resistance, and longevity compared to non-metal designs. With an understanding of the range of options, the ideal latch type can be selected for any cabinetry application.

Notable Manufacturers of Metal Cabinet Latches

A few companies have specialized in metal latches for over 50+ years, supplying latches to furniture makers and selling retail to consumers for DIY projects. These knowledgeable manufacturers provide access to time-tested latch designs.

Sugatsune America, Inc

• Founded originally in 1925 in Osaka, Japan. Their American division was established in California in 1984.
• Offer an extensive catalog of cabinet latches including pocket door locks, self-closing latches, drop-bolts, and more.
• Many designs made in stainless steel or extruded aluminum for strength.
• Noted for concealed and magnetic latches along with innovative new products each year.

Southco, Inc

• Southco has over 70 years of expertise in latches, hinges, and hardware solutions.
• Manufacture a wide range of latches including paddle latches, draw latches, swing handles, compressive latches, and cam latches.
• Many aerospace-grade and ruggedized military latch options.
• Custom latch modification and design services available.

Eberhard Manufacturing Co.

• 110+ years of US manufacturing history based in Ohio.
• Offer the patented Select-A-Catch line with interchangeable catches of different types that fit a common backplate.
• Latch designs include bullet catches, touch latches, refrigerator latches, flush bolts, and access panel latches.
• Known for Champion Slant Back catches on furniture and cabinets.

Epco Hardware

• Three generations of family ownership dating back to 1929.
• Specialized in bullet catches for cabinets and furniture. Many antique reproductions.
• Also supply pulls/handles, casement hardware, leg tips, shelf supports, and decorative casters.
• Provide assistance choosing optimal latches and hardware for each project.

Reid Tool Supply Co.

• Manufacturing latches and hardware since 1944 in Muskegon, Michigan.
• Offer one of the largest selections of draw latches suitable for cabinets, machinery, vehicles, and enclosures.
• Many steel and stainless steel latches with options for custom engraving.
• Additional US-made tools, fasteners, and industrial supplies.

This list provides just a sample of long-standing brands supplying quality latches made in the USA. Their focus enables them to engineer superior latches while keeping classic designs available too.

Materials Commonly Used in Metal Latches

Numerous metals bring specific benefits to latches, allowing designers to select materials optimal for each application.

Steel

• Most affordable metal latch option. Carbon steel and stainless steel choices.
• Provides durability and strength. Stainless offers corrosion resistance.
• Can be stamped, cast, or extruded into a wide range of latch forms.
• Finishes like chrome plating add beauty and protection from wear.
• Some downsides are potential visible rusting on carbon steel latches along with sharp edges.

Brass

• Prized for beauty and sophistication. Warm gold tones.
• Resists corrosion through a natural patina forming on the surface.
• Stronger than original zinc alloys but less so than steel.
• Can be cast into highly decorative designs not possible with other metals.
• Expensive compared to steel but affordable versus bronze or precious metals.

Bronze

• Provides exceptional strength plus attractive appearance.
• Naturally resists corrosion through surface patina like brass.
• Contains copper along with tin and sometimes other metals.
• Can be cast into complex shapes or extruded for strength.
• Costs more than brass or steel but offers greatest durability.

Aluminum

• Very lightweight yet strong if properly alloyed and thicknessed.
• Resists rusting though prone to surface oxidation.
• Easily worked for extruding or machining elaborate latch forms.
• Affordable and widely available.
• Not as strong or wear-resistant as steel for high-use situations.

Zinc Alloys

• Originally used for die cast latches and hardware. Also called pot metal or Zamak.
• Affordable with good machinability and molding characteristics.
• Appearance and strengths improved over early zinc alloys.
• Prone to breakage if thin or brittle from impurities.
• Finishes help reduce corrosion and oxidization issues over time.

This overview shows how certain metals have proven most suitable for latches based on qualities like strength, longevity, cost, and aesthetics. Stainless steel, brass, and bronze remain the top choices for critical applications.

Evolution of Styles Alongside Significant Design Movements

The aesthetics of latches evolved across different artistic and manufacturing eras. Each period offered unique styling:

Late Victorian Era

• Dark toned metals like oxidized brass and bronze.
• Organic shapes with leaf and vine motifs. Intricately cast.
• Orientation toward craftsman-built furniture in the Arts & Crafts style.

Art Nouveau Period

• Flowing asymmetrical lines and forms.
• Highly stylized animal and plant designs popular.
• Emphasis on custom metalwork in furniture and decorative arts.

Art Deco Age

• Geometric designs based on lines and circles.
• Stylized interpretations of plants and animals.
• Stained or enameled finishes over cast brass and zinc.
• Emergence of die cast latch production methods.

Mid-Century Modern

• Clean, unadorned latch forms made from flat stock metal.
• Emphasis on functionality and minimalism over ornamentation.
• Expanded use of aluminum and stainless steel.
• Precision machine styling. Mass production.

Today’s Eclectic Styles

• Rebirth of highly decorated Victorian and Art Deco latch aesthetics.
• Artistic custom latches in bronze, iron, and hand-forged metals.
• Continued demand for clean contemporary forms.
• Novelty and artistic latches.
• Emphasis on unique finishing like patinas.

This abbreviated history displays how latches reflected the design priorities of different eras ranging from handcrafted to mass-produced. Collectors today often desire latches matching a specific period.

Evolution of Manufacturing Processes

Latch production shifted from manual fabrication to mechanized processes enabling mass production.

Early Handcrafted Production

• Individual latches hammered into shape by blacksmiths and artisans.
• Cast in simple molds from brass, iron, or bronze.
• Each latch unique with hand-filing and finishing.
• Very slow, costly production.

Introduction of Stamping

• Enabled higher volumes using dies to stamp metal sheets into shapes.
• Steel the most common early stamping material.
• Allowed more standardized latch forms.

Die Casting

• Opens latch production to more complex designs.
• Molten metal forced into steel molds under high pressure.
• Automated production of interchangeable cast parts.
• Zinc, aluminum, and brass alloys commonly used.

CNC Machining

• Computer numeric control (CNC) machines cut and shape parts.
• Allows customized one-off designs affordably.
• Ideal for rapid prototyping and market testing.
• Reduces secondary hand-finishing.

Metal 3D Printing

• Adds fused metal deposition modeling techniques.
• Direct production of end-use latches and hardware with intricate shapes.
• Customization and fast prototype development.
• Limited use currently based on production speed and costs.

This progression shows how technology transformed latch manufacturing. Yet even the latest methods build upon earlier ironwork and metalforming traditions refined over generations by skilled artisans.

Evolution of Installation Methods

Latch use proliferated thanks in part to easier installation compared to older woodworking joints like dovetails.

Mortise and Tenon Joints

• Traditional fitted joints cut into furniture frames.
• Required expert woodworking skills and many hours to construct.
• Unable to allow for wood movement and seasonal expansion/contraction.

Separate Latches Added

• Enabled easier production and assembly of furniture.
• Offered flexibility if components expanded or contracted.
• Allowed latches to be changed or upgraded later on.

Self-Contained Catches

• Furniture builders began shifting to integrated cabinet latches.
• Catches designed for installing directly into the cabinet without a metal strike plate on the door.
• Further simplified latch incorporation into manufactured furniture.

Concealed Latches

• Provide hidden latches with electronic or magnetic opening.
• Allow minimalist styles not achievable with exposed latches.
• Enable factories to quickly install latches during production.

This evolution permitted easier latch use on more furniture styles with expanding varieties of built-in catches needing no expert fitting.

Development of Specialized Latch Categories

Beyond basic cabinet latches, many specialty designs were created over time:

Suitcase and Trunk Locks

• Early portable case latches focused on security while traveling.
• Innovations like combination and key locks improved protection of contents.

Boat and Yacht Hardware

• Marine latches withstand corrosion from saltwater along with wind and water forces.
• Support specialized needs like watertight sealing and safety.

RV and Trailer Hardware

• Designed for road vibration resistance and reliable operation over years of use.
• Offers features like dual lockable handles and interior/exterior operation.

Ammunition Case Latches

• Rugged designs able to contain explosive hazards if accidentally dropped.
• Often include brass or non-sparking components along with strong locking.

Toolbox and Chest Latches

• Withstand rough use while keeping contents secure inside.
• Emphasis on simple but sturdy latch operation and reliable locking.

This shows how latches progressed far beyond basic furniture applications to include unique designs for travel, marine use, transportation equipment, hazardous cargo, and heavy-duty cases subject to intense stresses.

Notable Latch Inventions That Advanced Functionality

Individual latch inventions also served to push capabilities ahead:

• Spring Loaded Latches – Allow doors to self-close or retract flush without manual assistance. Patented in 1924 by George Pfeiffer for automobiles.
• **Roller Catches