Selection Guide · Jun 2026 · 6 min read
How to Choose the Right Cam Lock for Outdoor Enclosures
Outdoor enclosures face rain, UV, salt fog and temperature swings. A cam lock that works fine indoors can corrode, seize or leak within a year outside. This guide covers the three decisions that matter most.
1. Sealing: IP Rating and Gaskets
For exposed cabinets, specify at least IP65 with a factory-fitted gasket. Check that the gasket material (EPDM or silicone) matches your temperature range - standard rubber hardens below -20°C.
2. Material and Plating
Zinc alloy with ≥96-hour salt spray plating handles most climates. For coastal or marine sites, step up to SS316 - the cost difference is small compared to a field replacement.
3. Key Management
Large fleets benefit from keyed-alike systems with a master key tier. Plan the key chart before ordering - retrofitting key systems later is expensive.
- IP65+ with gasket for exposed sites
- 96h+ salt spray plating minimum
- SS316 for coastal installations
- Plan keyed-alike charts up front
Unsure which spec fits your cabinet? Send us the application details and our engineers will recommend a configuration.