Beer brewers know that the equipment you use when making beer is just as important as the ingredients you use. That’s why it’s important that you have a good understanding of the equipment and parts that are used in the beer-making process – even down to the fittings that are used. In this post, we’ll look at camlock and quick disconnect fittings, the materials they are made of, and how they work in a brewery setting.
What Are Camlocks and Quick Disconnect Fittings?
Camlock fittings are a type of coupling that is used to connect two hoses together quickly and easily. They are used in many different industries, including beer-making. With a camlock, you are able to connect and disconnect hoses or pipes without needing tools or other equipment to do so. Using a camlock ensures that you will have a secure and tight connection due to the way the cams lock in place.
A quick disconnect fitting is also a watertight connection made between hoses or other equipment. They can be taken apart and put together quickly and easily, like a camlock. They are designed to be operated with only one hand if needed, and for applications that require a repeated break in the line of tubing as part of the operation.
Both camlock and the quick disconnect fittings are used in breweries and homebrew settings. Camlocks are preferred by some beer makers, while others like the quick disconnect fittings. Let’s take a look at the advantages of both and the materials they are made of.
Advantages of Quick Disconnect Fittings
There are advantages for quick disconnect fittings in the beer making industry. This type of fitting was the go-to connector before the camlock became so popular. They are still a solid choice for use in beer-making systems and some brewers prefer them over other options. Here are the reasons to use quick disconnect fittings:
- Ease of use – Quick disconnect fittings can be disconnected quickly (hence the name), even with just one hand.
- Versatility – You can find quick disconnect fittings in various sizes and configurations, which makes it easy to find the best fitting for your system.
- Stay cool – Quick disconnect fittings don’t become hot to the touch when in use like some of the other options.
Materials Used for Quick Disconnect Fittings
You can find quick disconnect fittings made from various types of materials. The type of material for these fittings is typically chosen based on the application that it will be used for.
Quick disconnect fittings are available in the following materials:
- ABS – Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) is a high-impact thermoplastic material that is typically used in commercial and residential sanitary systems.
- Acetal – Acetal plastic is difficult to break and is resistant to heat, chemicals and everyday wear. Strong, lightweight and economical material used for a wide variety of chemical and mechanical applications.
- Brass – Brass is strong, durable, and corrosion resistant, with high temperature ductility and good conductivity. Brass fittings are used for many different applications.
- Chrome Plated Brass – Fittings made with chrome plated brass are strong and durable and because they are attractive, they are excellent for settings where they can be seen.
- PVDF – Polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) is a resilient, durable, and strong material. It is resistant to harsh chemicals, strong solvents, and acidic media, which qualifies it for high performance in a wide range of applications.
- Polypropylene – Polypropylene is a commonly used type of plastic that is known for its use in food storage containers. It is chemical-resistant, work well in hot and cold temperatures, absorbs very little moisture, and is more cost-effective compared to other options.
- Stainless Steel – Offers excellent rust resistance and is often used for connector components. It is known for its durability and strength and it often used in food and sanitary industries.
Advantages of Camlock Fittings
There are multiple advantages to using camlock fittings in industrial brewery settings including the following:
- Cost effective – Camlock fittings are typically less expensive than other fittings options.
- Easy to use – The design of camlock fittings allows users to connect and disconnect hoses without needing any tools.
- Durability – Camlocks are available in various types of materials, making it simple to find the type that will work best for the application.
- Versatile – Camlocks come in different sizes and pressure ratings, ensuring that you can select the fittings that provide the best performance for your system.
- Better flow – You’ll have a better flow rate with camlock fittings as they typically have a larger inside-pipe diameter in comparison to other options.
Materials Used for Camlock Fittings
Camlock couplings are made out of various materials that each have distinct attributes and benefits.
Camlock fittings are available in the following materials:
- Stainless Steel – Stainless steel is known for being strong and durable. It’s able to withstand high temperatures, is resistant to rust and corrosion and is frequently used in the food and sanitary industries.
- Polypropylene – Polypropylene fittings are more cost-efficient than metal fittings. They are commonly used in industrial and agricultural settings.
- Nylon – Nylon fittings are often interchangeable with polypropylene fittings, but they are able to withstand higher temperatures and are more resistant to changing humidity levels.
- Brass – These fittings are resistant to corrosion and wear and tear. They are less expensive than stainless steel fittings and are frequently used in marine industries.
- Aluminum Alloy – These fittings are a lightweight, economical alternative to some of the more expensive fittings. They are commonly used for water, hydraulic oil, and petroleum products.
Key Differences
While camlocks and quick disconnects were made for the same purpose, there are quite a few differences between the two. The main difference is in operation, quick disconnects are twisted once with one hand for removal while camlocks have two levers that need to be opened/closed. While these two levers are easy to use they don't look great for showrooms. Another difference the camlock has is fewer internal components. Due to this camlocks have a large inside-pipe diameter so they have a really good flow rate. If you are working with hot liquids at any point, quick disconnects are unique in that they stay cool no matter the temperature of the product they are carrying.
What's the Most Popular?
If you are putting together a showroom in your brewery, chrome plated brass quick disconnects are your best bet. However, in all other industrial brewing settings, stainless steel camlock fittings are currently the most popular. Due to their resistance to rust and corrosion, and high flow rate, these are the most functional option. For more information on camlock fitting sizing and options, check out their product page.