"Quick coupling" can mean very different things. The two most requested in Panama are the Camlock and the Chicago, and although both connect without tools, they are not interchangeable.
Chicago coupling (universal claw)
The Chicago-style coupling —or universal claw coupling— is designed for compressed air. You connect it with a quarter turn until the claws lock, with a gasket that seals. It's the standard in workshops, pneumatic tools and service lines. It's made in galvanized steel or brass.
Camlock coupling (cam-and-groove)
The Camlock was designed to transfer liquids: fuels, water, chemicals and agri-industrial products. It uses two cam arms that press a groove and compress a gasket. It comes in types A, B, C, D, E, F, DC and DP, and in aluminum, stainless steel or polypropylene.
How to choose?
- Compressed air and tools: Chicago.
- Liquid transfer and tankers: Camlock.
- Corrosive chemicals: stainless or polypropylene Camlock.
- Frequent connect/disconnect: both, depending on the fluid.
Safety
On compressed air, always pair the coupling with a whip check safety cable to prevent whipping if the connection comes loose under pressure. On flammable liquids, verify gasket compatibility.
At YRVIMAR we stock both complete systems, with all their variants and sizes. Write to us and we'll help you build the right line.
