Are Camlock Fittings Interchangeable?

Before we understand if camlock fittings are interchangeable, it’s important to understand what we mean by camlock fittings, and it's worth noting they can also be referred to as camlock couplers. So, camlock fittings are connectors which are used to join hoses or other similar pipes. The fittings are known for their easy use, as camlock fittings can be installed rapidly with no other requirements. The same can't be said for other fittings. The ease of these fittings definitely gives them an advantage over others.

So, are camlock fittings interchangeable? Yes, camlock fittings are interchangeable. The different types of threads such as A, B, C, D, E and F, Dust Plugs and Dust Caps are all interchangeable to some degree, but it is advised to not mix brands or materials as it could result in an unreliable connection.

Read on to learn more about interchangeable camlocks.

Are All Camlock Fitting Types Interchangeable?

All camlock fittings are interchangeable as different types of camlock fittings (e.g. Part A, Part, B, Part C etc.) are built to the same standards. This is with the exception of ½”, ½”, 5” and 8” fittings. However it is advised to be careful when doing this as mixing and matching different types of fittings, especially between brands, could result in an unreliable connection.

A common question is whether all the different manufacturers' products of camlock fittings fit together. Technically, yes, they do, but it is advisable to not mix and match camlock fittings between brands as it may not achieve a good seal; manufacturers intend their products to work together rather than with another brand. If you’re looking for a specific brand of camlock fittings, visit our sister site. 

You may be asking if camlocks are interchangeable because you are looking at the different types of camlock fittings and you need to know if they work together. So, which camlock fitting is it that you need? 

When figuring out which camlock fitting is right for you, there are a few criteria which you should consider to ensure you purchase the correct fitting: size, temperature and materia - and that’s before you even start to think about the different interchangeable couplers and adaptors you need. Find out below why these criteria are important, when it comes to choosing and interchanging camlocks.

What Are The Different Types of Camlock Fittings?

If you are new to the world of camlock fittings, It’s helpful to know that a camlock fitting can also be known as a cam and groove coupling. The purpose of the fittings is that they are used to connect two hoses and or pipes together, allowing a commodity to be transferred from one hose to the other. The fact that all camlock fittings are interchangeable is found to be a really useful tool, as it makes for an easy and also varied use. Camlocks are actually one of the most popular coupling methods out there, due to requiring no additional tools to install and being less time consuming than more traditional methods. So, their easy use makes them very desirable and when it comes interchanging your camlocks fittings,  you know it is a pretty straightforward process.

When it comes to interchanging your camlock fittings, it is useful to know that they are available for you to use firstly, in different material types and secondly, in different threads. Common camlock materials which you will most likely use are: Aluminium, Stainless steel and Polypropylene. As we mentioned above, the different types of threads are all interchangeable to some degree. The types are as follows:

• Type A Camlock - Male adaptor with Female thread. The male grooved end of the adapter can be inserted into any female couplers such as Type D, B, C & a Dust Cap with identical size.

• Type B Camlock - Female camlock coupler with Male thread

• Type C Camlock - Female camlock coupling with hose tail

• Type D Camlock - Coupler with female thread

• Type E Camlock - Adaptor with hose tail

• Type F Camlock - Adaptor with male thread
• Part DC - Dust cap for adaptors
• Part DP - Dust plug for couplers

At Camlock, we have an in depth blog on the different types of camlock fittings, to further help your decision making, when it comes to choosing your camlock fitting types. Learn more.  Link to what are the different types of camlock fittings blog once live

Now you have an understanding of the different types of camlock fittings, we can move onto installing camlocks.

How Do You Install a Camlock?

When it comes to installation, it is good to know that a few cam couplings work best with heavy wall hose, made from materials such as Polypropylene, Aluminium and Stainless steel. Cam couplings usually come with a barbed pipe thread. It’s important to know if you are going to be using the barbed end, you will need to attach the relevant components.

Installation of a Cam Coupler

For this installation example, we will use Stainless Steel.

Step 1: Determine the type of clamp you will be using. In most cases, you’re going to need to slip the clamp onto the hose, before the coupler is inserted. 

Step 2: Slide the clamp onto the hose, then insert the barbed end of the coupler into the hose. Make sure the barbs are covered and that the hose is securely in place against the coupler, then tighten the clamp. 

Step 3: Attach the adapter to another hose but first, slide the clamp on, insert the adapter, then simply just tighten the clamp. 

Step 4: Now, you will have two couplings ready to attach to each other. If you move the camlock handles into a downward position, they are facing away from the body and ready to attach.

Step 5: You are ready to insert the adapter. Once that is complete, move the camlock handles back to their original position. Your camlocks are attached.

We hope this example has been of benefit to you when it comes to your first time installing a cam coupler. 

Interchangeable Camlocks at CamlockFittings 

Here at CamlockFittings, we stock a great range of cam and groove couplings in Polypropylene, Stainless Steel and Aluminium to suit a variety of different needs. Take a look at the range online today. You can also get in touch with our friendly, expert team if you have any questions, or aren’t quite sure what you need, they are more than happy to help.