Cam levers offer an ergonomic and tool-free clamping solution. You can use them to quickly tighten, lock and secure parts. Cam levers don’t require a wrench or socket; all they require is a simple push. Pushing the handle will engage will apply a clamping force to the connected parts. To learn more about cam levers and how they work, keep reading.
What Are Cam Levers?
Cam levers are mechanical devices that are used to apply a clamping force to parts. As shown in the photo above, they feature a handle and a threaded section. The handle rotates around a pivot point, allowing for an open and closed position. Pushing the handle from the default open position to the closed position will apply a clamping force.
Common features of cam levers include the following:
- Ergonomically shaped handle
- Durable construction
- Available in metric and inch sizes
- Protective surface finish, such as powder coating
How Cam Levers Work
There are different types of cam levers, but most work in a similar way. When you push down a cam lever’s handle, the distance between the pivot point and the contact surface of the connected part increases. The cam will essentially pass over the center. This creates a clamping force. Conversely, pulling the handle up will decrease the distance between the pivot point and the part’s contact surface..
Male vs Female Cam Levers
You can find cam levers in male and female styles. They both feature a handle and a threaded section. The difference is that male cam levers feature exterior threads, whereas female cam levers feature interior threads.
Choose a style that matches the part with which you intend to use the cam lever. If the part features a threaded hole or socket, you should choose a male cam lever. If the part features a threaded rod, in comparison, you should choose a female cam lever.
Why Use Cam Levers
When compared to traditional clamping mechanisms, cam levers offer several advantages. One of the main advantages is that they offer tool-free clamping. You don’t have to use any tools. Just pushing the handle to the closed position will apply a clamping force.
Another key advantage of cam levers is their ergonomic design. The handle is typically designed to minimize stress and tension, making them easy to use.
Cam levers work instantly. As soon as you push down the handle, they will apply a clamping force. And you can release the clamping force just as quickly by pulling up the handle.