Durable Latch Tongues for Industrial Locks
Ovesco’s latch tongues provide reliable lock engagement for cam systems, door hardware, and industrial enclosures. Designed for smooth operation and long service life, each latch tongue delivers positive locking using 8mm square drive or rod-operated mechanisms.
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Zinc-plated latch tongues for secure lock engagement
Ovesco’s latch tongues are built for dependable performance in cam locks, door hardware, and light industrial applications. Made from zinc-plated steel for strong corrosion resistance, they provide positive lock engagement through 8mm square drive, rod-operated, or lever-style mechanisms.
With options suited to single-point or three-point systems, each latch tongue offers smooth rotation, secure hold, and long-lasting reliability across a wide range of enclosure and cabinet uses.
Need help choosing?
Talk to our team of hardware specialists
Our team can help you choose the right latch tongue for your cam lock, rod system, or handle. With decades of experience in locking hardware, we can recommend the most suitable style, size, and component to ensure reliable performance in your application.
Designed for performance and security
Key features of latch tongue hardware
These latch tongues are manufactured for consistent, long-term performance in cam locks, doors, and industrial enclosures. Each product is engineered for smooth operation, positive locking, and dependable durability in demanding environments.
- Fits standard 8mm square drive systems
- Supported by grub screw retention for secure fixing
- Suitable for single-point and three-point lock arrangements
- Available in zinc-plated steel for strong corrosion resistance
- Compatible with rod systems, lever handles, and cam-style hardware
- Smooth rotational action for reliable locking and unlocking
- Ideal for industrial cabinets, access points, and controlled-entry enclosures
Secure, reliable, and built to last
Common uses for latch tongues and cam hardware
Latch tongues are commonly used in industrial cabinets, electrical enclosures, and access panels where dependable lock engagement is essential. Their 8mm square drive compatibility makes them suitable for cam locks, rod-operated systems, and controlled-entry doors.
They’re also widely used by vehicle body builders, fabricators, and equipment manufacturers who need a compact, durable locking component for light industrial doors and panels. With zinc-plated options for enhanced corrosion resistance, latch tongues provide long-lasting performance in a range of industrial settings.
Install with confidence
How to install a latch tongue
Installing a latch tongue is a precise but straightforward task when you follow the correct steps. Ensure your door or panel is prepared and suited to a handle that takes an 8mm square drive, allowing the spindle to rotate the latch tongue smoothly.
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Step 1 – Prepare the mounting hole and spindle
Mark the door or panel cut-out for the latch tongue’s spindle and secure the location for the mounting screws. Confirm your drive size (typically 8mm square) and that the spindle spins freely without binding in the panel thickness.
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Step 2 – Insert the latch tongue unit
Place the latch tongue into the cut-out and engage the square drive. Secure the unit with the mounting screws or bolts, ensuring the tongue plate aligns with the catch location. Use zinc-plated fasteners if the latch tongue is zinc-plated for corrosion compatibility.
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Step 3 – Connect cam or rod linkage
Attach the cam arm, rod mechanism, cables, or lever handle to the spindle of the latch tongue if using a three-point. Ensure the linkage is correctly adjusted so that when the door closes, the tongue engages fully in the strike or keeper, providing a snug and secure closure.
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Step 4 – Test functionality and alignment
Close the panel and rotate the handle or drive spindle to check that the latch tongue engages reliably. Open it, check release smoothness, and verify the closure is secure. If the door doesn’t lock fully or binds, adjust the alignment or spindle depth until the lock operates fault-free.
Why choose us?
Australia’s leading supplier of hardware
Ovesco supplies high-quality latch tongues and cam-lock components trusted across Australia’s industrial, electrical, and vehicle-body manufacturing sectors. Our hardware is selected for long service life, consistent lock engagement, and dependable performance in demanding environments.
Hardware expertise that saves you time
Our team can help you select the ideal latch tongue, cam, or rod system for your door or enclosure, ensuring the component is compatible with your drive size, clearance, and the required locking action.
Stock you can count on
We maintain a wide range of latch tongues and complementary hardware, including zinc-plated and corrosion-resistant options, ready for fast delivery across Australia. Whether you’re replacing a small component or fitting out new cabinets, Ovesco has the parts to keep you moving.
What our customers say
From independent tradies to national transport companies, we’re proud to supply locking hardware that gets the job done. Here’s what our customers have to say about our service and stock.
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Meredith Sabo
I have just received the best customer service from Ovesco. Immediately served me pleasantly. Helped with struts opened the door and I felt really appreciated as a customer. I almost want to go back and buy more gas struts even though I don't need them
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Kip Killaghan
Gate hinges, latches, fittings, gas struts. These guys know their stuff. Always happy to help. Super polite and friendly. There is always someone there who knows exactly what you need and maybe able to point you in a better direction if you have any doubts for the project you are embarking on.
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Bill W
Needed some struts for my wagon, not only were they extremely helpful, but ended up removing my old ones and fitting the new ones at no extra cost. Price was good as well. Many thanks guys
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Anthony Wakeling
only used Ovesco twice but on each occassion the service has been excellent. right product , well packaged and fast delivery. Great business to deal with!
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FAQs about latch tongues
What is a latch tongue?
A latch tongue is a small locking component used in cam locks, industrial cabinets, and access panels. It rotates with an 8mm square drive, handle, or cam to secure the door in place. Latch tongues offer a simple and durable locking action for light- and medium-duty enclosures.
How do latch tongues work?
How do latch tongues work?
What is the difference between a single-point tongue and a three-point tongue?
What drive size do latch tongues use?
Are latch tongues available in corrosion-resistant finishes?
Can latch tongues be used with rod or cam systems?
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Have a question?
Talk to us about latch tongues and cams
Need the right latch tongue for your cam lock, rod system, or industrial enclosure? Ovesco supplies a wide range of zinc-plated and corrosion-resistant hardware, available Australia-wide. Talk to our team today for expert advice and help selecting the best component for your application.
