Understanding Camlock Fittings

Camlock fittings are used in a variety of industries to connect two hoses or pipes together quickly and easily. Also known as a cam and groove coupling, the camlock fitting does not require any tools to connect or disconnect the two halves. The ease with which this type of fitting works, and its affordability, make the camlock one of the most popular types of couplings worldwide.

Benefits of Camlock Fittings

There are numerous benefits you will find when using camlock fittings aside from their cost-effectiveness. Here are just some of the benefits you will experience:

Durability:

Camlock fittings come in a variety of different materials which means that it is easy to select the material that will provide the most durability for each specific project or use.

Quick to use:

Camlock fittings are designed to be used quickly to connect or disconnect hoses or pipes from each other.

Ease of use:

You will not need any tools to attach a camlock to a hose or pipe, you simply close the arms on the fitting and the camlock is in place ready to use.

Versatile application:

Camlock fittings are versatile in that they are applicable to almost any industry that uses liquids, powders or gases.

Reliable:

Because you can select the material, size, and pressure rating, you can rest assured that camlock fittings will provide the reliability you need for your project or operation.

Types of Camlock Fittings

Camlock couplings are made out of various materials including stainless steel, polypropylene, nylon, brass, and aluminum alloy. Each material has distinct characteristics and advantages.

Stainless Steel:

Camlocks made of stainless steel are known for strength and durability. They are able to withstand high temperatures and are highly resistant to corrosion from chemicals or liquids. While stainless steel camlock fittings are a bit more expensive than those made of other materials, they are very durable, often being used in food and sanitary industries.

Polypropylene:

Polypropylene camlock fittings provide a cost-effective alternative to metal fittings. They are durable and able to handle harsh chemicals however they are not as strong as metal fittings. Camlock fittings made from polypropylene are most commonly used in agricultural and industrial settings.

Nylon:

Nylon camlock fittings are used in much the same conditions as those made of polypropylene, but they are able to withstand higher temperatures as well as being resistant to changing humidity levels.

Brass:

This type of fitting has a high resistance to damage and corrosion over time – like stainless steel couplings. Brass fittings are commonly used in marine industries because they work well with water, coolants, gasolines, hydraulic oils, and petroleum products.

Aluminum Alloy:

These camlock fittings are a lightweight, economical alternative to some of the more expensive fittings. They are commonly used for water, hydraulic oil, and petroleum products.

In addition to the type of material, you will need to know which style of camlock you need. The style will depend on the specific type of connection you need to make. Here are the different styles you can choose from:

A: male adapter with a female thread

B: female coupler with a male thread

C: coupler with a hose tail

D: coupler with a female thread

E: adapter with a hose tail

F: adapter with a male thread

DC: dust cap for adapters

DP: dust plug for couplers

Where Camlock Fittings are Used

Camlock fittings are used in many industries because of their effectiveness and versatility. The following are a handful of the most common places in which you will find camlock fittings being used:

Agriculture:

Camlock fittings are ideal couplers for the agricultural industry because they are resistant to acids and work well as hose connectors for irrigation and spraying needs.

Cleaning:

Camlock fittings make industrial cleaning quicker and more effective when it comes to storage and transporting hoses used.

Military:

Aluminum, anodized fittings are approved for use by NATO forces all over the world for rapid tactical deployment.

Oil distribution:

In many locations worldwide, camlock fittings are considered standard connectors for hoses that deliver petroleum to service stations and homes.

Paints, inks, and dyes:

Manufacturing of paints, inks, and dyes involve the frequent changing of hoses and pipes to mix specific color formulas. Camlock fittings are ideal for this as they are able to tolerate the collection of coatings without any damage to seals.

Pump connections:

Camlock hose fittings are often used at the inlet and outlet connections of pumps.

Choosing the Right Camlock Fitting for Specific Needs

Now that you better understand the benefits, types, styles, and uses of camlock fittings, you will be able to select the right fittings for your particular needs. The wide variety of types, sizes, and styles of these couplers ensures that you will find the ideal choice whether it is to be used for smaller, every day projects or larger, full-scale operations in specialized industries.
If you have any questions or need help deciding which fittings will work best for you, don’t hesitate to contact us for help.