Mettalic Ball catch

Product Description

A metallic ball catch is a spring-loaded latching device. It is designed to hold lightweight interior doors, cabinet doors, and access panels securely closed without the need for a standard door knob or latch bolt.

Unlike traditional latch mechanisms that require a handle or knob to operate, the ball catch engages automatically when the door closes. It uses spring tension to press one or more steel balls into a strike plate recess.

Mettalic Ball catch

These metallic ball catches are commonly used on closet doors, double doors with dummy hardware, folding doors, and cabinet hatches. They provide a simple, concealed latching solution.

When the door is pushed shut, the spring-loaded balls snap into the strike plate, holding the door firmly in place. A gentle pull overcomes the spring tension, releasing the door.

What Types of Metallic Ball Catches Are Available?

A common question concerns the different configurations available for various applications.

Drive-In Ball Catch:
This style features a cylindrical barrel that is inserted into a pre-drilled hole in the door edge. It has no face plate, making it the easiest to install as it requires no chiselling or mortising. The barrel contains a steel ball and spring, and the strike plate mounts on the door frame. It is ideal for basic closet doors and lightweight applications.

Surface Mount Ball Catch:
This style has a face plate with screw holes for mounting directly onto the door or frame surface. It is available with square or rounded corner face plates. The ball protrudes from the body and engages with a separate strike plate.

Dual Ball Catch (Double Ball):
This features two spring-loaded balls for enhanced holding force. These are often used on larger doors, hatches, and compartments where greater resistance is needed to keep the door closed. Some dual ball catches allow the strike to engage from multiple directions.

Heavy-Duty Ball Catch:

Mettalic Ball catch

This is constructed from thicker materials with stronger springs. It is designed for frequent use or heavier doors. These often feature adjustable spring tension and meet industry standards.

What Materials and Finishes Are Available?

The body or housing can be made of brass, zinc die-cast, stainless steel, steel, or polymer. Corrosion resistance varies by material, with brass offering a classic appearance.

The ball or balls can be made of steel, stainless steel, or ceramic. Steel provides durability, while ceramic is wear-resistant.

Finish or plating options include satin nickel, polished brass, antique brass, chrome, nickel-plated, and powder-coated in black or silver. Choose a finish to match existing door hardware.

What Are the Key Dimensions and Specifications?

The barrel diameter is typically 3/4 inch. Barrel or body length ranges from 1-3/16 inches to 70mm. Overall length for surface mount styles ranges from 43mm to 60mm.

Body width is typically 12mm. Strike fixing hole distance is typically 27mm. Spring tension is adjustable on many models. Holding force is lighter for single-ball catches and heavier for dual-ball catches.

How Do You Install a Metallic Ball Catch?

Installation method varies by catch type.

For Drive-In Ball Catches:
First, drill a hole of the appropriate diameter and depth in the edge of the door. Second, insert the ball catch barrel into the hole. Some models may include a faceplate or retaining screw to hold it in place.

Third, position the strike plate on the door frame directly opposite the ball, ensuring alignment when the door is closed. Finally, attach the strike plate using the provided screws.

For Surface Mount Catches:
First, position the ball catch body on the door or frame and mark screw hole locations. Second, pre-drill pilot holes.

Third, secure the catch with screws. Finally, mount the strike plate on the opposing surface, aligning it with the ball or balls.

Where Should You Use a Metallic Ball Catch?

For closet doors, it holds single or double swinging closet doors closed without a knob. For French and bypass doors, it is used on inactive door leaves with dummy hardware.

For cabinet and access doors, it secures hinged panels, hatches, and access points. For office partitions and folding doors, it provides lightweight latching for movable walls.

Why Choose a Metallic Ball Catch Over Other Catches?

The metallic ball catch offers several advantages for lightweight applications.

It provides concealed, automatic latching that requires no user action to engage. The compact design requires minimal door preparation compared to mortise locks, making it ideal for retrofitting.

The metallic construction offers durability and a corrosion-resistant finish suitable for interior use.

Mettalic Ball catch available in Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Lamu, Mandera, Marsabit, Isiolo, Meru, Embu, Kitui, Machakos, Makueni, Nyandarua,

Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Turkana, Samburu, Trans Nzoia, Uasin, Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Baringo,

Laikipia, Nakuru, Narok, Kajiado, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Busia, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Nairobi.

In Nairobi you can find them at: Westlands, Dagoretti,  Lang’ata, Starehe, Kamukunji, Embakasi, and Kasarani, Kibera, Mathare,

Eastleigh, Karen, Lavington, Westlands, Parklands, Runda, South C, South, Ngong Road

In Mombasa you can find us at : Nyali, Mwembe Tayari, Majengo, Likoni ,Bamburi, Miritini