Answers with Action : Camlock Safety
Welcome!
Welcome to the first in our new series of posts designed to answer our most frequently asked questions. After all, most challenges will overlap where the same products are being used, so let’s share the knowledge! Our first topic today is Camlock safety. Camlocks are the most widely used quick disconnect coupling method. Knowing what to watch out for and which Camlock is best for your application is important for both safety and efficiency.
Camlock Working Pressures
Operating a Camlock coupling is a relatively risk free process. However there are some aspects to take into consideration.
The main threat would be from any pressure contained within the coupling when it’s being disconnected. With our standard camlocks (either Snaplock or EcoCam) it is strongly advised that they be disconnected at negative pressure. There are other products which could be more suitable with pressure, so always consult with us for anything out of the ordinary!
Saflok: Safety Features
If you are dealing with any kind of substantial pressure rating or dangerous media and still wish to use the Camlock system we offer a separate range of Camlocks fitted with locking arms and safety pins called Saflok and Ecolok., which come with additional safety features.
Saflok is the internationally recognised and trusted brand, Ecolok is a lighter, more basic version with the same material properties and mechanism.
Locking arms work with a spring loaded catch which needs to be pulled straight back and away from the coupling in order to disconnect. To close the coupling, the catch snaps into place whilst pushing the arms down normally. This prevents accidental disconnection. The rings can also be used to lock the arms together with a zip-tie or lock for extra security.
Safety pin holes sit parallel above the top of the cam arms. A safety pin can be inserted for added security by preventing the arms from being lifted unintentionally.
Gaskets and Seals: Material Compatibility
The other safety concern our technical sales team are able to assist you with, is whether the media you will be running through the coupling is compatible for the seal that is fitted. Chemical compatibility will also determine which body material would be best for you. As standard, camlocks are sold with a Viton seal. Please ask our team if you have any concerns on this issue. Most fitting failures are due to the use of an incorrect seal. Alternatively, check out our chemical material compatibility chart. We also have a gaskets and seals ordering guide to download here along with a size guide to help you determine which size seal or gasket you will need for your fitting -click here to download.
Next time on Answers with Action...
We hope you have found this first instalment of Answers with Action useful! Please give us any feedback or any topic requests here.
Thank you and look out for our next Answers with Action.