The ultimate guide to cam locks
Welcome to everything you need to know about these versatile locking mechanisms. In this guide, we’ll explore the intricacies of cam locks to help you optimise your product designs and enhance security. Whether you're a seasoned engineer or just starting out, you'll find valuable information and insights as we cover:
What are cam locks?
Cam locks are compact, cylindrical locking mechanisms commonly used in enclosures and cabinets. They consist of a barrel with a keyway and a protruding cam. When inserted and turned, the key activates the cam, either retracting or extending it to secure or release the locking mechanism. Cam locks offer a balance of security and convenience, making them a popular choice in various industrial and consumer applications.
How do cam locks work?
Let’s take a closer look.
Cam locks operate on a simple yet effective principle. They consist of a cylindrical barrel with a keyway and a protruding cam. When a key is inserted and turned, it activates the cam, causing it to rotate. This rotation either extends or retracts the cam, depending on the lock's design.
In a typical application, the cam engages with a corresponding receiver to secure an enclosure. Turning the key in one direction extends the cam, locking the enclosure. Reversing the key retracts the cam, releasing the lock. The design allows for various cam shapes and lengths to accommodate different locking requirements.
It’s also important to understand latches, as sometimes the term is used interchangeably with locks. For your convenience, our experts have put together A Guide to Latches.
What should you know about cam locks?
To make the right choice for your project, you’ll need to consider the following:
● Types and sizes: Cam locks come in various sizes and styles, each suited to different applications. We’ll next look at the different types available.
● Key types: Different key profiles and bitting options offer varying levels of security. Bitting refers to the specific configuration of cuts in a key blank that determines which key will operate a particular lock. Different bitting patterns create unique key codes, enhancing the security of the cam lock.
While not as complex as high-security locks, cam locks can offer varying levels of security based on their bitting options.
● Cam profiles: The shape and length of the cam determine its function and compatibility. The shape of the cam, whether straight, offset, or angled, determines how it interacts with the locking mechanism. The cam's length also influences the reach and clamping force exerted. Careful consideration of cam profile is essential for ensuring proper operation and security.
● Material and finish: The materials used in the lock affect its durability and resistance to environmental factors. We’ll look at materials further on.
● Security level: Cam locks offer a range of security levels, from basic to high-security options.
● Installation: Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and security.
Different types of cam locks
Cam locks come in a range of configurations, each designed for specific applications.
Cylinder Locking Cam Locks
Designed to secure panels and doors by rotating a cam that engages with the frame or keeper on the rear side. These cam latches are easy to install without tools, allowing for quick and simple mounting. They can be attached to doors of standard thickness and are ideal for lightweight access applications.
Choice of lock types: Master Key, Keyed Alike, and Keyed to Differ
Material Options: Stainless steel, die-cast zinc alloy
Finish options: Powder coated, chrome plated, and stainless steel
Quarter turn latches – wing knob
Designed to close doors, equipment covers, and enclosures. Also ideal as cabinet cam locks. Operated by a 90-degree twist, and is ideal for applications requiring frequent access. Each quarter turn latch includes an outer sealing gasket and an assembly nut for easy installation. Quick to install by inserting them into the installation hole and tightening the nut. No key. Also available: quarter turn latches with extra-long housing.
Material options: Nylon and die-cast zinc alloy
Finishes: Chrome plated and black powder coated
Quarter turn locks – secure
This robust quarter turn lock secures enclosures in demanding environments, while accommodating various installation orientations. Requiring both a push and key rotation for opening, this quarter turn lock prioritises security. Ideal for industrial equipment, electrical enclosures, and as a cabinet cam lock. IP65 rated. Keyed alike.
Material: Die-cast zinc alloy
Finishes: Chrome plated and black powder coated
Handle-turn cam latches – mini wing knob
Keyless mini cam latches with wing knobs and clip-on installation provide easy fixing for panels and doors. The rotating cam secures by engaging the frame or keeper on the back side. Key-operated versions available.
Cam materials: Steel, die-cast zinc alloy
Latch materials: Zamack, die-cast zinc alloy
Handle materials: Nylon, die-cast zinc alloy
Finishes: Chrome plated and black powder coated
Key lock cabinet cam locks
Cabinet cam locks provide reliable security for display units, security cabinets, and stock cupboards. Offering both key alike and key to differ options, these latches cater to various security needs. With a selection of grip ranges, you can find the perfect fit for your application. These cabinet cam locks combine security and practicality, making them a versatile choice for a range of storage solutions.
Choice of lock types: Keyed alike, round key, slotted key, square key
Material: Die-cast zinc alloy
Finish: Chrome plated
45-degree mounting mini cam lock with spring
Specially designed with an internal spring that provides up to 1 mm of torsion. The cam sits at a 45-degree angle to the housing. The lock is offered with alternative grip range options and a choice of three head styles that include: 6 mm square, 7 mm triangle and slotted. Ideal for applications with limited space, such as napkin or paper-towel dispensers.
Material: Die-cast zinc alloy
Finish Options: Black powder coated and chrome plated
View our range of 45-degree mounting mini cam lock with spring
Quarter turn T-Handle
Locking and non-locking versions available. The T-handle lock version features a rotating cam mechanism for secure closure. It creates a tight seal by compressing against the panel or door when closed. The cam engages with a receiver on the opposite side, providing a robust and reliable fastening solution. Ideal for applications demanding superior vibration resistance, such as cabinets and enclosures. DIN-EN 1774 rated.
Material: Stainless Steel
Quarter turn locks – IP65
Designed for environments prone to vibration, these quarter turn locks are suitable for left- and right-hand use. The cam's rotation is limited to a quarter turn for enhanced reliability and safety. Ideal for cabinets and enclosures. Rated IP65.
Choice of lock types: Turn latch straight key, turn latch key, triangle key, square key, double-bit key, slotted key, railway key
Material: Nylon, zinc alloy, die-cast zinc alloy, stainless steel
Finish: Chrome plated, black powder coated, no finish
Threaded plastic cam locks – quarter turn
Our lightweight, plastic quarter turn locks offer a durable and cost-effective alternative to metal options. Each cam lock comes with a metal lock nut, but a plastic option is also available. Meets IP65 standards, making these cam locks suitable for applications requiring protection against environmental factors.
Choice of key types: Square key, triangle key, double-bit key, slotted key
Material: 30% glass-fibre reinforced nylon
View our threaded plastic quarter turn locks
These are just some examples from our vast range of cam locks. We recommend you also take advantage of our free CADs.
You can never have enough information. We also urge you to read our Guide to furniture and cabinet locks.
Materials for cam locks
Your choice of material is crucial for ensuring performance, durability, and suitability for specific applications. Here’s a breakdown of common materials used in cam locks and latches. We have only given “Best for” recommendations. For example, stainless steel has good wear resistance, but it’s not the best material for that purpose if that’s your priority.
| Best for: | Stainless steel | Die-cast zinc alloy | ABS | Nylon | Zamack | Steel | 30% Glass-fibre nylon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corrosion resistance | ● | N/A | N/A | N/A | |||
| Strength & durability | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ||
| Cost-effective | ● | ● | |||||
| Lightweight | ● | ● | |||||
| High-wear resistance | ● | ● | |||||
| Chemical resistance | ● |
Finish options and their benefits
The combination of material properties and finish options allows for a balance of durability, aesthetics, and cost-effectiveness.
1. Chrome plated
Benefits:
● Corrosion resistance: Protects underlying material from rust and corrosion
● Aesthetic appeal: Provides a shiny, polished look
● Durability: Enhances surface hardness and wear resistance
2. Powder coated
Benefits:
● Durable finish: Resistant to chipping, scratching, and fading
● Variety of colours: Allows for customisation and aesthetic matching
● Environmental protection: Provides a protective barrier against environmental factors
Where to use cam locks
There really is no limit to where you can use cam locks. For your convenience, we’ve put together this summary of applications for the cam locks we showcased.
Securing panels and doors
● Cylinder cam locks
● Quarter turn latches – wing knob
Enclosures
● Quarter turn latches – wing knob
● Quarter turn locks – secure
● 45-Degree mounting mini cam latch
● Quarter turn T-Handle cam latches
● Quarter turn latches with spring
● Threaded plastic cam latches
Lightweight enclosures
● Plastic snap-in cam lock
● Threaded plastic cam latches
Cabinets
● Quarter turn latches – wing knob
● Quarter turn locks – secure
● T-Handle cam latches
● Key lock cabinet cam latches
● Quarter turn T-Handle cam latches
● Quarter turn latches with spring
Equipment covers
● Quarter turn latches – wing knob
Industrial equipment
● Quarter turn locks – secure
Demanding environments
● Quarter turn locks – secure
● Quarter turn latches with spring
Protection from noise, vibration, and environmental elements
● T-Handle cam latches
● Quarter turn T-Handle cam latches
● Quarter turn latches with spring
● Threaded plastic cam latches (environmental elements)
Display units, security cabinets and stock cupboards
● Key lock cabinet cam latches
IP65 standards
● Quarter turn locks – secure
● Quarter turn latches with spring
● Threaded plastic cam latches
Download free CADs and try before you buy
Free CADs are available for most solutions, which you can download. If you’re not quite sure which cam lock will work best for your application, our experts are always happy to advise you. Free samples of some products are also available – just ask us.
Whatever your requirements, you can depend on fast despatch.
Questions?
Email us at sales@essentracomponents.co.uk or speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application 0345 528 0474.