How to Measure a Camlock Fitting?

If you know the size of the thread or hose you are connecting to, then there is no need to measure the Cam and Groove Fitting. This is because a 2” female coupler will connect with a 2” male adaptor and install into a 2” thread or hose. So for the vast majority of the cases just knowing the thread or hose size is enough information needed in order to select the correct camlock size. So knowing the size of the pipe, fitting or hose that is to be connected with, will determine the size of the coupling required. For example, a 2” pipe or hose will require a 2” coupling.

It is only if you do not know the size of the thread or hose that you are connecting to, that you may find yourself in a position that requires you to measure the actual adapter or coupler. For example if you have a coupling in your possession and you dont know its size, then you can measure the mating end of the coupling and not the thread in order to identify the size.

Choosing the incorrect size could result either in the male adapter and the female coupler not connecting; or the threads or hose barb not being able to be installed due to a size mismatch.

Cam fittings are one of the easiest ways to ensure a secure and leak-proof connection. These quick connect fittings combine to form a totally sealed joint. However, this is only possible if there is compatibility between female couplers, male adapters, and their respective hose tails and threaded ends.

So, let’s understand the sizing and how you can measure a cam fitting. 

How a Camlock Connection Works?

The cam and groove system comprises a male adapter and a female coupler. A male adapter, also called a plug, is the part of the quick connect that has a smooth, cylindrical end with a groove, designed to be inserted into a female coupler. A female coupler, also called a socket, is the component that receives the male adapter. It has cam arms (levers) that are rotated to lock the male adapter in place, forming a tight, leak-proof seal. 

Insert the male adapter into into the female coupler, and the female coupler’s arms will rise to accommodate the male. Then apply downward pressure on the arms pushing them towards the body to the closed position, (See diagram below for illustration). This will create a secure connection and provide a waterproof seal. Using the R-clips or safety pins, the arms can be locked in place once the connection is made, this provides added safety to ensure the connection stays in place. Most metal female couplers come standard with a buna gasket already installed which makes contact with the male adapter and facilitates the leak proof seal.

Measuring Cam and Groove Fittings (Connection size)

As mentioned previously, it is only necessary to measure a quick connect fitting  if you don't know the size of the pipe, fitting or hose they match up with. If you find yourself with a coupling and need to figure out what size thread or hose it will connect to, then measuring the connection size will help identify the size. The connection size is the diameter of the coupler or adapter, and this will be slightly larger than the size of the thread or hose that  the coupling will install into.

Bear in mind the mating adapter and coupler sizes need to be of similar size . After you know this connection size, you can refer to the table below in order to find out the thread ends and hose barbs size.

How to measre a Male Adapter?

To determine the connection size of the male adapter, measure outer diameter (OD). This is the distance of the male plug end measured at its widest part from outer edge to the opposite outer edge.

How to measure a Female Coupler?

To determine the connection size of a female coupler, measure the inside diameter (ID). This is the width of the female socket’s opening between its opposite inside walls measured at its widest point. 

Method to Measure Cam and Groove Fittings

Step 1. Take a caliper, micrometer, measuring tape or even a ruler to measure the quick connect fitting.

Step 2. Measuring the outside diameter (OD) for a male adapter and the inside diameter (ID) for the female coupler.

Step 2. Reference the chart below to convert the connection size just measured to find out the actual size of the coupling.

For example a 4“ coupler or adapter will measure roughly 4 ¾  inches in diameter. 

Sizing Chart:
 

Why is it important to choose the correct Cam coupling size?

It is important to choose the correct size for the simple reason that your quick connect coupling will not thread into its corresponding pipe or fitting, or install into the hose if the size does not match.

• Choosing the incorrect size will result in the inability to install the fitting into threads or hose, and also prevent the quick connect pair from mating.

• Choosing the appropriate coupling size removes needless hassles from your system's operation. Before operating the system, always confirm that the coupling is operating correctly and producing the appropriate seal. 

• If you have any doubts about the safety, inspect it and make the required adjustments. Select the appropriate cam fitting spare parts and extra accessories.

Measuring the threads (Thread size)

Here are a few tips and tricks to make the process easier.

• Identify the thread type: Determine the thread type (for example, BSP or NPT), as each has a unique profile and dimensions.

• Measure the thread's diameter: To determine the nominal size, use a caliper to measure the outer diameter (OD) of male threads and the interior diameter (ID) of female threads.

• Determine the thread count or pitch: Using a thread gauge, count the threads per inch (TPI) on NPT or BSP threads. For metric threads, measure the space between them (pitch) in millimeters.

• Use a Thread Chart: Use a thread chart to match the dimensions to conventional thread sizes, ensuring that the thread type and size are compatible with other components.

In Conclusion 

Knowing the dimensions will help you select the ideal cam fitting for your needs while maintaining security and performance. Proflow Dynamics offers a full selection of cam coupling sizes to help you find the correct size for your application.