How Do You Size A Camlock Fitting?

Posted by Wildcat Digital on

Camlock couplings (also called camlocks or camlock fittings) allow you to connect and disconnect joints in a pipe line quickly and easily. Camlock couplings are necessary for the smooth functioning of hoses and pipes. However, ordering the correct size cam coupling is not always easy. 

So, how do you size a camlock fitting? A camlock's size should correspond to that of the end of the pipe or hose. In order for the coupler and adapter to be compatible, the inside diameter (ID) of the couple should be the same as the outside diameter (OD) of the adapter. The threads in question should also be the same size as the adapters and couplers - allowing for easy tightening.

Size is just one factor in choosing the right camlock fitting. Read on to help avoid the potentially costly mistakes of fitting the wrong type of camlock. 

Choosing The Right Size Camlock

Typically, camlock fittings are measured by measuring the outside diameter of the adapter head or the inside diameter of the adapter. When you measure the outer diameter of a metallic camlock adapter, the associated coupler will be known by the same internal measurement. As an example, a 2-inch adapter fits with a 2-inch coupler. Polypropylene fittings don't have an international standard, however, and manufacturers use different sizes for the heads. Therefore, you must make sure that you choose the dimensions that will fit together. In this instance, a ½ inch hose tail fits a ¾ inch body.


At Camlock Fittings, our line of camlocks are offered in sizes ranging from 1/2" to 4" to suit a variety of applications, including water, petroleum and chemical transfer hoses. We offer a variety of premium fittings that are lightweight, secure, and feature handles that fold into position to complete a tight connection.

Tools for Measuring Camlocks

To make sure you select the right components, an electric calliper is the best way to get a precise measurement. Measurement instruments of this type provide highly accurate readings and can be used for measuring the inner and outer diameters of components.


The Importance of Correctly Measuring Your Camlock Fitting

The incorrect fit of a camlock connection can not only cause leaks but can take your entire system offline. This will cost you much more money in repairs than if you installed the proper size fittings from the beginning. You should ensure that your fittings are functioning properly and sealed tightly. It is important to stop and evaluate whether the fit is tight and secure, and to start over if necessary.

Other Considerations When Choosing Your Camlocks

Choosing the right size camlock is the first step in determining the right camlock fitting for your needs. Other factors at play included the material, the pressure and temperatures that the camlock will have to sustain, and endpoints and connections.

The industry has come up with a handy acronym, STAMPED, to ensure that we can remember all these factors when choosing a suitable camlock. It stands for:

S - Size

T - Temperature

A- Application

M - Material

P - Pressure

E - Endpoints and connections

D - Delivery

Whilst this acronym is helpful - size and material are the most important factors as they have a bearing on the other considerations such as pressure, temperature, and application. For example, if you are using a camlock to connect a hose that transfers chemical substances, then a polypropylene camlock will be your best choice.

Choosing The Right Material For Your Camlock Fittings

Camlock Fittings offers 316 stainless steel, aluminium, polypropylene, as well as brass camlock fittings upon request. But which material is best suited for your needs?

Stainless Steel

In terms of durability and robustness, stainless steel camlock fittings are the most reliable and durable. They are hygienic, which makes them the first choice of food and pharmaceutical manufacturing companies as this cleanliness helps avoid impurities, condensation, and bacteria breeding. These materials have high-temperature resistance and can perform at temperatures as high as 230°C.

The stainless steel camlock fittings we manufacture are available in a wide range of sizes and are made from 316 grade stainless steel, a leading class of products at an affordable price. It has male BSPT threads, female BSP threads, a hose tail, a dust cap, and a dust plug, as well as the ability to fold down the arms for a secure fit.

Aluminium

In low-demand fluids like oil and water mixtures and freshwater, aluminium camlocks are a great low-cost camlock option. 


We offer an extensive range of aluminium camlock fittings, ranging from 1/2" to 4 2", to meet a wide variety of needs. Featuring brass handles that fold down into position to complete a tight joint, our premium fittings are lightweight and secure.


Polypropylene

The main advantage of polypropylene camlock fittings is their corrosion resistance. As such, acids, wastewater, solvents, and fertilisers have no detrimental impact on them. Because of this, they are ideally suited for industrial and agricultural applications.

Despite its plastic nature, it has high resistance to temperature and pressure. These Camlock fittings have an incredibly long life and durability when used in a proper manner.

Fire fighting pumps, filters, and fertiliser and chemical applications typically choose our selection of glass reinforced polypropylene camlock fittings to meet their needs. 

Order High-Quality Camlock Fittings Today 

Here at Camlock Fittings, our extensive range of easy-to-use camlock fittings is available in sizes ranging from 1/2" to 4", and can be used with a range of hoses, including water, oil, and chemical transfer hoses. Use our handy table to quickly find the right size and material to suit your needs:


Stainless Steel

Polypropylene 

Aluminium 

½”

½”

½”

¾”

¾”

¾”

1”

1”

1”

1 ½”

1 ½”

1 ½”

2”

2”

2”

3”

3”

3”

4”

4”

4”

If you have any questions, we'd be happy to help. Please contact us at:

01235 512500

Or alternatively, you can fill out our contact form here.

As a specialist in camlock fittings, we will not be beaten when it comes to quality, price, or service. We have large stocks and fast shipping across the globe.


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