If you're new to industrial fittings, you might have come across the term Camlocks or Camlock fittings. These small yet powerful components play a big role in fluid transfer systems across various industries.
In this beginner's guide from Advanced Flow Controls, we'll explain what Camlock fittings are, how they work, and why they're used in so many industries — all in simple, easy-to-understand language.
What Are Camlock Fittings?
Camlock fittings, also known as cam and groove couplings, are a type of hose connection that allows you to quickly connect or disconnect hoses or pipes without the need for tools.
They consist of two main parts:
The male adapter (groove)
The female coupler (cam)
When these two parts are connected, the arms (cams) on the female side lock into place over the male side, creating a secure seal. That's where the name “cam and groove” comes from.
It's fast. It's secure. And best of all, it doesn't require any special tools or complicated assembly.
Why Use Camlocks?
Camlock fittings are a favorite in industries like:
Oil and gas
Food and beverage
Agriculture
Chemicals
Water treatment
Here's why so many professionals trust Camlocks:
Quick and easy to use
No tools required
Durable and long-lasting
Available in a variety of materials (such as stainless steel, aluminum, brass, and polypropylene)
Leak-proof connections when properly fitted
Common Applications of Camlock Fittings
At Advanced Flow Controls, we supply Camlocks for a wide range of uses. These include:
Fuel delivery systems
Water and fluid transport
Food-grade applications
Chemical handling
Irrigation and agriculture
No matter what industry you're in, Camlocks help make connections simpler, safer, and more reliable.
Types of Camlock Fittings
Camlock fittings come in different types, often referred to by letter codes:
Type A – Male adapter x Female NPT thread
Type B – Female coupler x Male NPT thread
Type C – Female coupler x Hose shank
Type D – Female coupler x Female NPT thread
Type E – Male adapter x Hose shank
Type F – Male adapter x Male NPT thread
Not sure which type you need? Our experts at Advanced Flow Controls can help you find the right Camlock fitting for your project.
Choosing the Right Camlock Material
CamLocks are available in several materials, and choosing the right one depends on what you're transferring:
Stainless Steel – Best for corrosive chemicals and high temperatures
Aluminum – Lightweight and cost-effective
Brass – Ideal for water and non-corrosive fluids
Polypropylene (Plastic) – Resistant to chemicals, great for agriculture and light-duty tasks
Still unsure which material is best for your application? Reach out to us — we're happy to help.
How to Use Camlock Fittings
Using a Camlock fitting is easy:
Align the male and female parts.
Insert the male adapter into the female coupler.
Pull down the cam arms to lock it in place.
Done! You now have a secure, leak-free connection.
To disconnect, just lift the cam arms and separate the parts. It's really that simple.
Final Thoughts
Camlock fittings may seem small, but they make a big impact in fluid handling systems. Whether you're dealing with water, oil, chemicals, or food-grade products, Camlocks offer a fast, safe, and tool-free way to connect hoses and pipes.
At Advanced Flow Controls, we offer a wide selection of high-quality Camlock fittings tailored to your needs. Whether you're a seasoned engineer or just getting started, we're here to help you find the right solution.
