Toggle latch key to materials handling equipment

Dean Palmer reports on a toggle latch that is playing a vital role in the design of revolutionary equipment for the materials handling market Toggle latch fasteners are playing a critical role in the design of an award-winning returnable transit packaging (RTP) device that is taking the materials handling market by storm. Constructed from rotationally moulded thermoplastic, the 'rollet' (www.rollet.co.uk) is a revolutionary materials handling device that is safer, lighter and more versatile than metal roll cage alternatives currently on the market. Essential to the rigidity and adaptability of the RTP is the first tier of sides, which are held firmly in position by TL600A toggle latch fasteners, supplied by Farnham-based company Dzus Fasteners. These latches also permit fast disassembly of the units to optimise transport. Haywood Rotomoulding developed the moulded components working with the rollet company and the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology. Peter Canham, technical manager at Haywood Rotomoulding commented: "The fasteners have to provide a secure fixing as once everything is assembled, the toggle latches hold it all together. The sides hook into the base unit and the back and front link into the sides. "Once the units are pushed down, they hold together and the latches keep the units secure and prevent them from bouncing upwards when they are used over rough terrain. There is also a hole in each toggle that can be used for adding a security tag or padlock if required." The toggle latches are riveted to the base units and must exert and maintain sufficient pressure to hold the RTP together under arduous service conditions. Added Canham: "We built a rolling road rig that simulated different terrain conditions and we ran it for 24-hour cycles to equate to approximately 10 years of product life. The toggle latch stood up to the tests and did not stretch."