The Classification of Cam Locks
One popular and significant kind of hardware is cam locks. They are found in a wide range of items, including heavy industrial machinery and office furniture. They are an easy and efficient solution to lock panels, drawers, and doors. There are numerous varieties of cam locks due to their wide range of applications.
Selecting the ideal lock for your requirements can be made easier if you are aware of these types. For professional and reliable hardware, many industries trust manufacturers like Fornd, a company known for its high-quality industrial locks and components.
This article is worth reading because choosing the wrong cam lock can cause problems. Whether you need a lock for a metal cabinet, a telecommunications box, or an RV, knowing the differences in their design and function is very important. This knowledge will help you find a lock that is secure, durable, and fits perfectly.
How Are Cam Locks Classified?
Internal Mechanism
Cam locks are grouped in a few different ways. The main ways are by their inside parts, the material they are made of, and the shape of their key. First, cam locks are classified by their internal mechanism. This is how the lock works on the inside.
One type is the pin tumbler cam lock. This lock has small pins inside. When you put the correct key in, the key lifts the pins to the perfect height. Then the lock can turn. These locks are common and offer good security.
Another type is the disc tumbler cam lock. This lock uses flat metal discs instead of pins. The key has cuts that turn the discs to the right position. Then the lock opens. These locks have a simple design and are often used in things like file cabinets and toolboxes.
A special type is the tubular cam lock. The pins inside this lock are set in a circle. So you need a round, tube-shaped key to open it. This design makes the lock harder to pick.

Application
We can also classified cam locks by their applications. At Fornd, we make multiple types of locks for different industries. Here is more about some of the special cam locks we offer.
Images | Type of Lock | Features | What They Are Used For | Link |
| Classic Tool Locking | Needs a special tool to open, not a normal key. | Industrial cabinets, utility panels. | |
| Hygienic Latch | Smooth surface, easy to clean, often made of stainless steel. | Food industry, medical equipment, cleanrooms. | |
| Railway Window Lock
| Very strong, resists shaking and vibration.
| Windows on trains and other rail cars.
| |
| Quarter Turn Locks with Wing Knob | Has a handle (wing knob), easy to open by hand. | Enclosures that need quick and easy access. | https://fornd.com/category/quarter-turn-cam-locks-with-wing-knob-and-t-handle |
| Tool Locking | Can only be opened with a special tool. | Public utility boxes, electrical panels. | |
| Safety Lock | Has an extra step to open, prevents accidents. | High-risk machinery, safety guards. | |
| Quarter-Turn Cam Latch, Railway Standard | Locks and unlocks with a simple 90-degree turn. | A very common lock for all kinds of cabinets.
| https://fornd.com/category/quarter-turn-compression-lock-for-railway-industry |
What Types Of Materials Are Cam Locks Made From?
The material a cam lock is made from is very important. It affects the lock's strength, how long it will last, and where it can be used. These are some commonly used materials.
Material | Features | Best For |
Zinc Alloy | Low cost, strong, stable, and easy to cast. | Cabinets and enclosures, hinges with special functions, RV and specialty vehicles |
Stainless Steel | Very strong, excellent resistance to rust and corrosion. | Outdoor use, marine environments, food processing, and chemical plants. |
Plastic (PA66+30%GF) | Lightweight, rust-proof, and does not conduct electricity. | Electrical enclosures, medical equipment, and lightweight cabinets. |
Steel | Very strong and low-cost. | General indoor applications. It needs a coating like zinc or chrome to prevent rust. |
How Do You Choose the Right Cam Lock?
Choosing the right cam lock involves thinking about several important factors. You need to match the lock to your specific needs to ensure it works well and keeps your property safe.
Security
How safe does the lock need to be? How safe a lock is depends on its inside parts. A lock with more pins or a harder disc system is more difficult to pick and is safer. You need to think about what you are trying to protect and pick a lock that is safe enough.
Strength
How strong is the lock? Strength means how well the lock can stop someone from breaking it with force. This mostly depends on what the lock is made of. Stainless steel is very strong and does not get damaged easily. Zinc alloy is also strong andis often used.
Size and Length
Will the lock fit? You must measure how thick your door or panel is. The cam lock has a body part and a cam part (the arm that turns). The lock's body needs to be long enough to fit through the hole. The cam needs to be the right length and shape to lock correctly behind the frame. Fornd gives you detailed 2D and 3D CAD drawings for their products, so you can check the exact sizes before you buy.
How long does it last?
How long will the lock last? This depends on two things: how stable the inside parts of the lock are and if the material can fight off rust and damage. If you use it outside or in wet places, you should pick a lock made of stainless steel or one that has a special coating to protect it.
Can other keys open it?
Can other keys open this lock? This is the chance that a key from one lock can also open another lock that is the same kind. If you need high security, you want a very low chance of this happening. For things like utility panels, a higher chance (or using the same key for many locks) might be better because it is easier.
Conclusion
To sum up, cam locks are important pieces of gear that are used in a huge range of situations. There are different types of cam locks. There are different types of locks, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. For example, pin tumbler locks are smooth and safe, while disc tumbler locks are simple and cheap. The first thing you need to do to pick the right tools for your project is to understand these categories.
When you need to select a lock, always consider factors like security, durability, and size to ensure you get the best performance. For a wide range of high-quality, professional, and reliable industrial locks and accessories, a trusted supplier like Fornd can provide the solutions you need to keep your assets secure. Contact us today at https://fornd.com/contact.
FAQ
How do you choose the best cam lock for high-security situations?
For the most protection, you should use an advanced disc tumbler lock or a tubular cam lock. A lot more unique key combos can be made with these types, and they are much harder to pick.
Is it possible to get more than one lock that all work with the same key?
A "keyed alike" method is what it's called. It is possible to order a group of locks that can all be opened with the same key. This is a good way to control who has access. Fornd can meet this need by providing options with custom keys.
Where can I find full information about a certain lock model?
This is available on the websites of professional makers. On the Fornd website, for example, you can look through their whole catalog and see the technical drawings and specs for each industrial lock to make sure it meets your needs.


















