Camlock Couplings

Standards

The Mil-C-27487 standard has been replaced by A-A-59326D. Formerly a US military standard for Camlock couplings, Mil-C-27487 and A-A-59326D are interchangeable and share the same design. Mil-C-27487 specifies the casting processes, materials, dimensions, tolerances, pressures and inspection procedures.

EN 14420-7, the European standard developed to replace the US military standard, was ratified by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) in September 2004. Camlock couplings are manufactured worldwide to US military specifications. However, this American standard only specifies the female side, neglecting the male side. Additionally, other components such as levers, bolts, washers and seals are not standardized. EN 14420-7 aims to address these shortcomings.

There are differences between Camlock couplings produced to EN 14420-7 and those produced to the original MIL-C-27487 standard, particularly in hose barb design, threads and part numbers. Internally threaded parts now feature a flat thread seal, and the hose shaft conforms to EN 14420-7/DIN 2828 standards for compatibility with safety clamps conforming to EN 14420-3/DIN 2817.
Currently, there are two types of Camlock couplings available on the market. The military specification A-A-59326A does not cover 5" and 8" cam & groove couplings, except for 5", 8" and 12". Camlock couplings are interchangeable across different manufacturers.

These couplings are capable of handling pressures up to 1.7 MPa.

Temperature

The temperature specifications of the coupling are determined by the chosen material. When using Polypropylene couplings, the pressure decreases as the temperature of the fluid increases. For instance, polypropylene can withstand a maximum temperature of 70°C, at which point the pressure must be reduced by 40%. Stainless steel couplings, on the other hand, have an operating temperature range from -100°C to +260°C. In cases of significant temperature variations, it is advisable to consult the supplier for further information.

The nature of the medium, pressure and ambient temperature may also influence the selection. Special seals may be required for such applications.

Coatings

If the coupling material is not resistant to the liquid being transferred, we offer a service to coat the coupling. Note: if abrasive materials are involved, the coupling will wear out quickly. In such cases, we do not recommend using the coupling.

PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene/Teflon): These coatings can withstand temperatures up to 260°C and are equally effective as PFA-coated couplings for food-grade applications.

PFA: Although some suppliers offer couplings coated with PFA, we do not provide this coating due to the widely known carcinogenic properties of PFAs.

ECTFE (ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene): Couplings coated with ECTFE have excellent electrical insulation, fire resistance, corrosion resistance, and can withstand temperatures up to 150°C. These couplings are designed to withstand highly concentrated and aggressive chemicals.