In April 1998, we launched our newest product line–safety latches for self-cleaning ovens. Because self-cleaning oven cycles can reach temperatures in excess of 800°, appliance manufacturers needed a very consistent, durable, and reliable oven latch. We use Nitinal Shape Memory Alloy in an innovative approach to creating “safe” oven latches.

Also known as “Memory Metal” and “Muscle Wire,” this combination of nickel and titanium actually learns and remembers a shape. Once the metal has been annealed (a process of shaping the metal and subjecting it to high heat), the metal can be stretched and deformed but will always return to it’s annealed shape when heated.

When heated, our oven latches remember their locked position, thus preventing an oven door from being opened during a self-cleaning cycle.