Hook-and-latch toggle clamps, also known as a pull-action latch or toggle latch clamps, are most often used to pull and hold two components together. They work the opposite of typical double-ended clamps and are designed for applications where a straight-line pulling action is needed to pull two pieces together.

Our goal in this article is to give you an overview of pull-action latch clamps. We’ll discuss clamping mechanism details, clamp types, available material types, things to consider when selecting a pull-action clamp and applications.

Industrial pull-action latch clamps feature a handle that can be moved to place the clamping pull bar or hook around the opposing latch and then pressed down to the locked position.

These clamps are available with fixed length or threaded U-bar or J-hooks for easy adjustment. Threaded U-bar and J-hook assemblies are supplied with jam nuts.

Pull-action latch clamps are also available with and without a locking mechanism which prevents inadvertent or vibration-induced opening of the clamp. A separate thumb-operated mechanism is sometimes provided to raise the hook or bar allowing one-hand operation. Latch plates may need to be purchased separately depending upon the supplier and model.

An additional feature is available on some pull-action latch clamps to allow separate safety-lock insertion to prevent the clamp from opening inadvertently or for safety lock-out purposes.

Pull-action latch clamps deliver a powerful closing force, positive holding and convenient operation. Industrial pull-action latch clamps are available with holding capacities as high as 7,500lbf [33,4kN].

Regardless of how they operate, the primary features of pull-action clamps are that they lock securely in the closed position, are fast-acting and allow for quick opening or closing by an operator.

U-bar and hook pull-action latch clamps are ideal for securing cabinet doors, access covers, drum lids and other container lids. They are also an excellent choice for latching applications on molds. In one notable application example, pull-action clamps pull together the two halves of an injection mold.

There are three basic types of pull-action latch clamps including:

> Fixed latch toggle latch clamps
> Horizontal and vertical U-bar type toggle latch clamps (adjustable length U-bar)
> J-hook toggle latch clamps. (Adjustable length U-bar)

Pull-action latch clamps have many uses in the aerospace, automotive, injection molding, medical, food and packaging and consumer goods industries along with other industrial applications.

Pull-action latch clamps are also used in assembly and clamping fixtures.

Low-profile versions are used in many tools and fixture construction applications to allow easy access for workpiece replacement and to prevent interference with parts and other tools. They are also available with an adjustable draw arm to allow changing the length of the arm.

You should consider several things when selecting pull-action latch clamps for your application to ensure their effectiveness. Among those things are:

> Do you need a vertical or horizontal clamp?
> Do you need a U-bar or hook-type clamp?
> Do you need a fixed or variable length arm?
> What is the desired holding force capacity?
> Do you need a thumb control to raise or lower the U-bar or hook?
> Do you need a safety-lock insertion capability?

Hook-and-latch or pull-action latch clamps deliver a powerful closing force, positive holding and convenient operation.

Pull-action latch clamps are designed for applications where a straight-line pulling action is needed to pull two pieces together.

Regardless of how they operate, pull-action clamps lock securely in the closed position, are fast-acting and allow for quick opening or closing by an operator.

U-bar and hook pull-action latch clamps are ideal for securing cabinet doors, access covers, drum lids and other container lids. They are also an excellent choice for latching applications on molds.