How To Measure a Camlock Fitting
Figure 1: Camlock fitting
The camlock fitting size must match the dimensions of the pipes or hoses it will connect to. Incorrect sizing can result in leaks, system failures, and costly repairs, compromising the entire installation. This article provides a detailed guide on accurately measuring camlock couplings to ensure proper fit and function.
Table of contents
- How to measure a camlock fitting
- How to determine camlock connection size
- How to measure the size of the Camlock threaded end
- FAQs
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How to measure a camlock fitting
Figure 2: Camlock coupling socket measurements: threaded end (A) and the socket end that connects to the plug or adapter (B)
When working with camlock fittings, it is crucial to understand the different dimensions and how they relate to the components they connect:
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Connection size (Figure 2 labeled B):The connection size refers to the diameter of the camlock socket that connects to a plug or adapter.
- This part of the camlock fitting typically connects to a hose using a cam and groove mechanism, where the male adapter is inserted into the female coupler (or vice versa), and the cam arms are engaged to secure the connection.
- Size of the threaded connection (Figure 2 labeled A): This refers to the size of the pipe thread that connects to the hose.
Read our camlock fittings article for a comprehensive guide on how these fittings work.
How to determine camlock connection size
Gather a measuring device such as measuring tape, ruler, calipers, or a micrometer for more precise measurements.
Measure the diameter
Figure 3: Female camlock couplers are measured on the inside (A), while male plugs are measured on the outside (B)
- For female camlock fittings: Measure the inside diameter (ID) of the open end of the female camlock fitting (Figure 3 labeled A). This is the part where the male adapter will be inserted.
- For male camlock fittings: Measure the outside diameter (OD) of the male camlock fitting (Figure 3 labeled B). This part will be inserted into the female coupler.
Determine the nominal diameter
Nominal diameter (DN) is a standardized term to describe a pipe's approximate size or fitting. It provides a general size category rather than an exact measurement.
- For example, a camlock fitting with a nominal diameter of DN 40 is designed to connect with pipes or hoses in the 40 mm size category.
Refer to a sizing chart (Table 1) to determine the nominal diameter of the camlock fitting. Note that the measured diameter may be slightly larger than the nominal size. This is due to manufacturing tolerances, design considerations for strength and sealing, and standardization for compatibility across different manufacturers.
- A camlock fitting with a nominal size of 2 inches may measure approximately 2 1/2 inches in diameter.
Table 1 outlines the camlock coupling dimensions, including the male outside diameter and female inside diameter, to assist in determining the correct nominal size.
Table 1: Camlock size chart
|
Camlock dimensions |
||||
| Camlock size (Nominal diameter) (Inches) |
Male outside diameter |
Female inside diameter |
||
|
Inches
|
Inches
|
mm
|
Inches
|
mm
|
| 1/2" | 15/16" | 23.81 | 1" | 25.4 |
| 3/4" | 1 1/4" | 31.75 | 1 5/16" | 33.34 |
| 1" | 1 7/16" | 36.51 | 1 1/2" | 38.1 |
| 1 1/4" | 1 3/4" | 44.45 | 1 13/16" | 46.04 |
| 1 1/2" | 2 1/16" | 52.39 | 2 1/8" | 53.98 |
| 2" | 2 1/2" | 63.5 | 2 1/2" | 63.5 |
| 2 1/2" | 3" | 76.2 | 3" | 76.2 |
| 3" | 3 5/8" | 92.08 | 3 11/16" | 93.66 |
| 4" | 4 3/4" | 120.65 | 4 3/4" | 120.65 |
| 5" | 5 5/8" | 142.88 | 5 11/16" | 144.46 |
| 6" | 6 15/16" | 176.21 | 7" | 177.8 |
How to measure the size of the Camlock threaded end
- Identify the thread type: Determine the thread type (for example, BSP or NPT), as each has distinct profiles and dimensions. Read our article on identifying thread standards for more information on understanding unknown thread types.
- Measure the thread diameter: Use a caliper to measure the outside diameter (OD) of male threads or the inside diameter (ID) of female threads to identify the nominal size.
- Determine the thread count or pitch: For NPT or BSP threads, use a thread gauge to count the threads per inch (TPI). For metric threads, measure the distance between threads (pitch) in millimeters. Read our article on measuring thread size and pitch for more information.
- Use a Thread Chart: Use a thread chart to match the measurements with standard thread sizes, confirming the thread type and size for compatibility with other components. Refer to our BSP and NPT thread standard articles for more details on these standards and their measurement charts.
Read our articles on camlock coupling types and camlock types materials for more information on the various types of camlock fittings and their materials and applications.
FAQs
How to measure a camlock coupling?
Measure the inner diameter of the female coupler or the outer diameter of the male adapter to determine the size of a camlock coupling.
How do you size a camlock fitting?
Size a camlock fitting by matching its nominal diameter to the corresponding hose or pipe size, ensuring it fits within the intended size category.
Are all camlock fittings the same?
Camlock fittings are not all the same; they come in different sizes, materials, and types but adhere to standardized dimensions for compatibility across manufacturers.
