When shopping for aerospace tools, you may come across camloc pliers. They are handheld, manually operated pliers. Like all pliers, camloc pliers feature jaws. Squeezing the handle will force the jaws to close. What are camloc pliers exactly?
Overview of Camloc Pliers
Camloc pliers are handheld pliers that are designed for use with camloc fasteners. Camloc fasteners are a popular alternative to threaded fasteners — especially in the aerospace industry. They are mechanical fasteners that can be locked and unlocked with a 90-degree action. To install camloc fasteners, however, you’ll need camloc pliers. Camlock pliers are designed to install, as well as remove, camloc fasteners.
The camloc pliers depicted in the photo above support the following types of camloc fasteners:
- Rexnord Series 2600
- Rexnord Series 2700
- 4200 Quick Operating
- 1/4-Inch Turn
How Camloc Fasteners Work
Most camloc fasteners consist of a stud assembly, a grommet and a receptacle. The receptacle style may vary depending on the particular type of camloc fasteners.
Some camloc fasteners have a rigid-style receptacle. Other camloc fasteners have a floating-style receptacle. Regardless of the style, camloc fasteners work in the same way by locking and unlocking with a 90-degree action. Camloc pliers will apply the necessary 90-degree action so that you can install and remove them.
The stud and grommet are designed for use in the removable portion. The receptacle, on the other hand, is riveted. You can rivet the receptacle to a solid part of an airplane. To install camloc fasteners, though, you’ll need a pair of camloc pliers.
What to Look for in Camloc Pliers
You should choose camloc pliers that are compatible with your camloc fasteners. If you’re currently using Rexnord Series 2600 camloc fasteners, for instance, you’ll need to ensure that the camloc pliers are compatible with Rexnord Series 2600 camloc fasteners. Otherwise, they may not work.
Camloc pliers are often plated. They feature a solid steel core that’s covered in a thin layer of chrome or nickel. The chrome or nickel plating protects the steel core from corrosion. Chrome and nickel exhibit excellent resistance to corrosion. Therefore, plated camloc pliers typically won’t rust. As long as the plating remains intact, they can withstand humid and moist environments without rusting.
You should consider the size when shopping for camloc pliers. Some of them are longer than others. A typical pair of camloc pliers are a little over 7 inches long, which offers an ergonomic design that’s comfortable and easy to use.
