In the electrical industry, specifically in the US, a Camlock connector, also called cam lock, is an interchangeable single-pole connector used for temporary electrical power production and distribution. It is the most common connector for temporary power in the US electrical industry. It was originally branded as Cam-Lok, but has since become the generic term.
The most common form is the 16 series, rated at 400 amperes with 105 °C terminations. Also in common use is the 15 series (mini-cam), rated at 150 amperes. A larger version is made denoted as the 17 series with ratings up to 760 A. A ball nose version and a longer nose standard version exist - the latter is the most common. Another version is the Posi-Lok which has controlled interconnection sequencing to a panel and a shrouded connector body. The early version original connector was hot-vulcanized to the cable body; later versions use dimensional pressure to exclude foreign material from the connector pin area; the tail of the connector insulator body is trimmable to fit the cable outer diameter.
They are generally used where more than 50 A is required or 3 phase temporary connections are needed, and to connect large generators or building disconnects to distribution panels,or for test connections to load bank equipment for generator load certification; special events, and the interconnection of entertainment lighting and sound equipment to power sources. They are usually found only in professional environments, where connections are performed by qualified personnel.
