Basics

A Type of Coupling (for Hoses typically, although supposedly there is some Electical Equivalent) which while being capable of a “Quick Connect” is far less vulnerable to Dirt/Debris getting into the mechanism.
It consists of an Inserting (Typically referred to as Male) and Receiving (Typically referred to as Female) end.
- The receiving end has a Circular Gasket that the Inserting end presses against forming a seal
- Two Hinged “ears” with Cam Profiles on their arm are used to press the hose in place and into said gasket
  - Many can also be locked into place via a Cotter Pin / Split Pin etc

Name

As with Hook and Loop Fasteners , if you are a Business or Government and don’t want to violate the Trademark , you have to use the more clunky name.
- Hence Hook and Loop Fasteners and not Velcro
Similarly Cam and Groove Coupling and not Cam-Lock / Camlock etc

First and foremost what material?
- While Plastic can (and in some cases maybe REQUIRE) work, it’s low Wear Hardiness / Ability to Dry Rot/Shatter isn’t ideal
Thus you TYPICALLY use either the “Standard” ( Brass + Steel based etc), or Stainless Fittings/Hose Terminations etc
Food Grade/Water Grade must be separate from Petroleum Product Transfer etc too

Typically a Nitrile / NBR gasket is used (and it is wise to keep some spares on hand/in a kit)
Double check for niche uses such as Food Grade Transfer, and High Acid/Alkali etc though (with the same detail Glove Compatibility and Material Compatibility concerns should usually be treated

While not ENTIRELY relevant if only using some multi-coupling “Christmas Tree” type contraption etc, any time Hoses are used similar Material Compatibility Concerns apply
Typically NBR with a Ground Wire (connected to both metal fittings securely for Grounding and Bonding etc)
- ” Petroleum Product Transfer Hose “ etc with whatever Pressure/Vacuum Rating you need
If only doing water, such as with a Trash Pump / for “op checking” gear, lighter water only hoses are far more flexible and light which can be very nice.