Magnetic catches offer a convenient fastening mechanism for cabinets, drawers and other lightweight objects that require opening. As their name suggests, they use magnetism to hold objects together. By default, the cabinet or drawer will remain closed. You can pull it open, however, to overcome the magnetic force.
Magnetic catches consist of two parts: a metal plate and a magnet. The metal plate is mounted on the inside of the cabinet door or drawer. The magnet, on the other hand, is mounted on the inside of the furniture piece. When the door or drawer is closed, the magnet attracts the metal plate and holds it in place. While nearly all magnetic catches use this same design, however, you can find them in different materials.
Aluminum
Some aluminum catches are made of aluminum. They typically feature a ceramic magnet that’s housed in an aluminum frame. Both the magnet frame and the metal plate are made of aluminum. Aluminum magnetic catches are lightweight, durable and highly resistant to corrosion. They also offer a sleek chrome finish that’s aesthetically pleasing.
Brass
Brass is commonly used in the construction of magnetic catches. Brass, of course, is an alloy of copper and zinc. Brass magnetic catches feature a distinct brass color that many people prefer. When installing magnetic catches in antique furniture, you may want to go with brass for this reason. At the same time, brass magnetic catches are also durable and long-lasting.
Steel
You can find magnetic catches made of steel. Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon. By itself, iron is somewhat weak, and it’s highly vulnerable to corrosion. Steel is both stronger and better protected from corrosion than pure iron because it contains carbon. Steel magnetic catches retain these same characteristics, making them a popular choice for many latching and fastening applications.
Plastic
There are also plastic magnetic catches available. Like all of the other magnetic catches listed here, they feature a permanent magnet. The permanent magnet typically consists of a ceramic magnet, which is placed inside of a frame. Plastic magnetic catches feature a plastic frame and a plastic-covered metal plate.
In Conclusion
Magnetic catches are available in a variety of materials. Some of the most common materials used in their construction of aluminum, brass, steel and plastic. Whether you’re planning to install them on cabinet doors, drawers or any other objects, you should consider the material. Each material offers its own advantages, thereby affecting the performance of the magnetic catches.