Types, materials and sizes of Camlock couplings

If the world of Camlock couplings is new to you, the vast range of manufacturers will probably overwhelm you. You can choose not only from a variety of coupling construction types, but also from a range of sizes and materials.

How do you choose the right ones? You'll find out in the article.

We review all types of Camlock couplings - both basic and special types - in the text. In addition, we check the available production materials and sizes. We also suggest how you can make the best product choice for your own installation.

What are the types of Camlock couplings?

The types of Camlock couplings are as follows:

• Camlock coupling A - Male Camlock coupling with female thread;
• Camlock coupling B - Female Camlock coupling with male thread; 
• Camlock coupling B-AS - Female Camlock coupling with weld-on end; 
• Camlock coupling C - Female Camlock coupling with hose stub; 
• Camlock coupling D - Female Camlock coupling with female thread;
• Camlock coupling E - Male Camlock coupling with hose stub; 
• Camlock coupling F - Male Camlock coupling with male thread; 
• Camlock coupling F-AS - Male Camlock coupling with weld-on end; 
• Camlock coupling DC - Dust cap for male Camlock coupling; 
• Camlock coupling DP - Dust cap for female Camlock coupling; 
• Camlock coupling DA - Female Camlock coupling with male Camlock coupling (acts as a reducer); 
• Camlock coupling AA - Adapter with two male Camlock couplings; 
• Camlock coupling DD - Adapter with two female Camlock couplings.

This is not the end of the story, as Camlock couplings also come in the form of elbows (usually at 45 and 90 degrees). In this version, they are divided according to the same types as the standard product versions.

For example, a Camlock A elbow will have a male Camlock coupling on one side and a female thread on the other.

You can find adapters and reducers available on the market as well as other Camlock coupling accessories.

What are the special Camlock couplings?

The special Camlock couplings are as follows:

• Camlock coupling with undercut DIN 2828,
• Camlock coupling with flange, 
• Camlock coupling with spiral stub, 
• Camlock coupling with smooth stub EN14420-7 (formerly DIN2828).

Camlock coupling with undercut DIN 2828

Camlock couplings with undercut DIN 2828 are couplings that are used when the male thread on the hose is parallel and offers an undercut at the base of the thread, as well as a seal on which the male thread is seated.

Camlock coupling with flange

The flange ends are available with Camlock couplings, so you will introduce a quick-release system without having to make major changes to the pipework.  The flange itself can be adapted to a variety of spec

Camlock coupling with spiral stub

Camlock couplings with spiral stub are used for composite hoses, as they fit into the inner spiral of the hose.  This allows them to be screwed into the hose and fixed with a collet.

Camlock coupling with smooth stub EN14420-7 (formerly DIN2828)

The smooth stub of Type C and E Camlock couplings has an annular flange. This allows the BS EN14420-3 safety clamp, which has a lip, to catch against it. As a result, the risk of hose bursting due to pressure decreases.

What are the materials used in camlock couplings?

The materials used for camlock couplings are as follows:

• stainless steel Camlock couplings, 
• aluminium Camlock couplings, 
• brass Camlock couplings,
• polypropylene Camlock couplings,
• nylon Camlock couplings.

Below, we have a look at the advantages and disadvantages of each of these.

Stainless steel Camlock couplings

Stainless steel Camlock couplings have several important advantages, such as high strength, as well as resistance to corrosion and extreme temperatures. The durability of the material makes it compatible with a wide range of media, including acids and alkalis. In addition, it is suitable for highly corrosive environments.

Typical applications for stainless steel fittings include: food and beverage, marine environments, pharmaceutical and chemical, cleaning and decontamination, paints and dyes, fuels and oils, and manufacturing.

As far as disadvantages are concerned, the high (compared to others) cost of the material is particularly striking.

Aluminium Camlock couplings

The advantage of aluminium Camlock couplings is their light weight and cost-effectiveness. Although aluminium Camlock couplings are not as corrosion resistant as stainless steel Camlock Couplings, the low cost makes it easy to replace aluminium Camlock couplings, making the material a good alternative for industry.

Typical applications of aluminium Camlock couplings include a wide range of general industry, construction and applications using fresh water mixtures.

The main disadvantages of aluminium Camlock couplings are its lower durability and (already mentioned) weaker corrosion resistance.

Brass Camlock couplings

Brass Camlock couplings are distinguished above all by their resistance to corrosion, especially in salt water, as well as their ease of installation. Because brass is a "softer" metal, it closes the Camlock coupling socket arms much more freely.

Typical applications for brass Camlock couplings include marine installations, deep wells and saltwater environments.

As for disadvantages, brass Camlock couplings are more expensive compared to other types.

Polypropylene Camlock couplings

Polypropylene Camlock couplings are lightweight, cost less and are chemical resistant. Polypropylene Camlock couplings are suitable for transporting acids and alkalis and are corrosion-resistant.

Typical applications for this type of polypropylene Camlock couplings include general industry and chemical industry, as well as agriculture.

Among the disadvantages of polypropylene Camlock couplings are their lower physical strength and ease of deformation.

Nylon Camlock Couplings

Nylon Camlock couplings are more resistant to high temperatures and humidity. They are also lightweight and relatively inexpensive.

Common applications for nylon Camlocks include the chemical and agricultural industries in high temperature and humidity applications.

Nylon Camlock couplings have the same disadvantages as polypropylene Camlock couplings, that is, lower physical strength and a higher risk of deformation.

What are the sizes of Camlock couplings?

The most common sizes of Camlock couplings are as follows:

• 1/2 inch, 
• 3/4 inch, 
• 1 inch, 
• 1 1/4 inch, 
• 1 1/2 inch, 
• 2 inch, 
• 1 1/2 inch, 
• 3 inches, 
• 4 inches, 
• 5 inches, 
• 6 inches.

Camlock coupling sizes are determined by their nominal size, with male and female parts having slightly different actual diameters for joining purposes. Furthermore, the method of measurement of CAMLOCK parts also differs slightly.

You will measure the male part of the coupling (the plug) by its outer diameter, while the female part (the socket) is measured by its inner diameter.

How to choose the right Camlock coupling?

To choose the right Camlock coupling, be guided by the following criteria:

• Size - The size of the thread or hose determines the size of the coupling you need. For example: if you have a 1-inch thread or hose, you need a 1-inch Camlock. 
• Pressure - The working pressure varies depending on the material of manufacture, e.g. stainless steel has the highest strength and polypropylene the lowest. 
• Temperature - The permissible operating temperature range of a joint is largely determined by the gasket. For extreme operating conditions, refer to the temperature parameters of the various gasket varieties. 
• Material - The material of manufacture of a particular Camlock affects its performance and resistance to various media. 
• Coating - There are couplings with special coatings that protect them against particularly aggressive chemicals. Coatings are made from ECTFE, PFA, PTFE, PVDF. 
• End - Depending on the installation location (hose or pipe) you need a Camlock with a different end.

What is the difference between a male and female Camlock coupling?

The main difference between the male and female Camlock coupling is that the plug (male part) goes into the socket (female part). In addition, the latter has special lugs which, when pulled, close and seal the connection.

Are Camlock couplings interchangeable?

Camlock couplings are interchangeable in most cases. However, some products larger than 6 inches or smaller than 1 inch may not be perfectly compatible. In addition, standard sizes (except of 5 inches) are usually interchangeable regardless of national or global sourcing.

Are there any restrictions on the use of Camlock couplings in installations?

There are some restrictions when using Camlock couplings in installations. For safety reasons, the product is not suitable for use with compressed air and steam.

In addition, for hoses, Type C and E couplings with larger notches on the stub are not designed to be fitted with a collet or safety clamp. This is because the notches on the stub can cut the hose if the clamp is too tight. If you prefer to mount with a safety clamp, use a coupling with a smooth stub and flange.

Summary

Camlock couplings are available in a huge number of varieties. This makes it easy to choose the right product for your needs.

The large selection of ends and sizes ensures that the couplings are suitable for any installation. The many material versions ensure that they are resistant to a variety of media and meet the relevant standards when transporting food, etc.