Camlock

Camlock, short for cam and groove coupling, is a type of quick-connect fitting used to join hoses or pipelines. A camlock set typically comprises a male adapter with a groove and a female coupling with two cam arms that lock onto the groove when closed, creating a sealed connection.

To connect, the male adapter is inserted into the female receptacle and the cam arms are rotated to lock the connection. A gasket or elastomeric seal is compressed to prevent leaks. Some variants include a built-in valve to prevent spills when disconnecting, known as a dry-break version.

Materials and sizes vary. Camlock fittings are commonly made from aluminum, stainless steel, brass, or high-strength plastics. Seals use elastomeric compounds such as Buna-N, EPDM, or Viton to suit different fluids. They are available in a range of nominal sizes, from small fractions of an inch to several inches, and in imperial or metric sizing.

Applications are broad and include agriculture, chemical handling, petroleum transfer, food and beverage processing, and water systems. The quick, tool-free connection and disconnection makes camlocks popular where frequent hose changes or rapid transfer is required. Availability of food-grade, corrosion-resistant, or high-pressure variants supports various industries.

Advantages and limitations: Camlocks provide rapid, reusable connections with reliable seals when properly mated. They are not ideal for extremely high pressures or temperatures, and chemical compatibility depends on gasket material and fluid type. Correct size, material, and gasket selection are essential to prevent leaks or corrosion.

Maintenance and safety: Inspect for wear, inspect seals and cam arms, clean grooves to remove debris, and replace worn gaskets. Do not disconnect under pressure and ensure connections are fully secured before use.