Quick Disconnects on pumps

BobH · Joined: 01 Jun 2017 Posts: 6

It's been about a 5 year journey since originally dreaming about a build and actually almost having all the parts to complete the build. The last of the parts for the panel should arrive next week so it's time to start thinking about the plumbing parts. Early on in the dream I purchased some cam-lock quick disconnects. Now that I realize there are spring-loaded, one-handed QDs, I would really like to use them as much as possible. With the price of QDs currently, I would really like to use these cam-locks somewhere. Skimming the brew day pages and trying to imagine how the brew day would go, I don't think that the hoses that connect to the inlet/outlet ends of the pump move during the brewing process so the cam-locks would work just fine there. Is this correct? My belief is that they would be ok since they are only touched in setup and breakdown. Being able to use my already purchased cam-locks there would save nearly $100 and I don't think there would be a difference in functionality. Thanks

dp Brewing Company · Posted: Fri Jan 19, 2018 1:06 pm Post subject:

What you are saying can be done without any worries. Many of us on here use camlocks for the whole setup, including me. With that said, I do see the convenience of the QD's. I didn't go that route for two reasons, I have carpal tunnel in both wrists that flares up from time to time so grabbing something can be more of a challenge. The reason I didn't use them was I was worried about them leaking down the road (not saying that is an issue, just a thought).

I think either direction is a great choice. Mix and match for now to save money and later replace the camlocks with QD's if you determine it bugs you.

itsnotrequired · Joined: 15 Sep 2015 Posts: 177 Location: central wi

i also use camlocks everywhere. as i understand it, these are built to an international standard so all the manufacturers build them the same way and they are interchangeable. the ball-lock style fittings can vary by manufacturer so compatibility can become an issue. shouldn't be a big deal if you buy all of them from the same place at the same time but could be an issue if you have to buy a replacement down the road and it doesn't mate up with your other fittings (leaks).

Firebrewmedic43 · Posted: Fri Jan 19, 2018 2:54 pm Post subject:

I use camlocks in my entire build as well. I have had no problem whatsoever. At the time these were significantly lower in price than the spring-loaded style QD's. I've incorporated the camlocks on my counter-flow chiller, my water filter and my water supply hose. One good feature of camlock connector is you can remove the silicone washer and really thoroughly clean and sanitize them

dp Brewing Company · Posted: Fri Jan 19, 2018 3:14 pm Post subject:

Both are very valid points! I even keep a few extra silicone washers around. I've lost a few to the vacuum.