Guidelines

for Installing
Steel Conduit/
Tubing
 Free
Lets You Plot Magnetic
Field Density
ElectroMagnetic Interference (EMI) can
significantly reduce the effectiveness of
computers and other sophisticated electronic
equipment. It can cause problems ranging
from distortion of monitor images to the

Windows
® alteration or destruction of valuable digital
data and the disruption of communications.

Georgia Tech—under the sponsorship

of the Steel Tube Institute of North America
(STI)—has conducted in-depth research on

GEMI
reducing the effect of electromagnetic fields
on electrical and electronic equipment.

The result is the Grounding and

ElectroMagnetic Interference (GEMI)
analysis software, available free from STI.

Software
It lets you accurately calculate the
electromagnetic field density of a network
design for conduit-enclosed circuits. The
research shows that steel conduit can reduce
electromagnetic fields at 60 Hz power
frequency levels by as much as 95%.

Lets You Determine

Maximum Allowable
Length Of Equipment
Grounding Conductor
The GEMI software also includes research on
equipment grounding and a new Steel Conduit
Installation Guide. GEMI lets you confirm
design parameters of grounding systems that
use steel electrical conduit and helps you
determine whether your electrical designs
comply with the equipment grounding
requirements of the NEC.

For your free copy of the GEMI CD,

contact the Steel Tube Institute,
2000 Ponce de Leon, Suite 600,
Coral Gables, FL 33134
E-mail: [email protected]

For copies of the research reports and new

installation guide, visit the conduit website:
http://www.steelconduit.org
Table of Contents
Section Page

1. Scope. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

2. Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

3. General Product Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

3.1 Steel Conduit and Tubing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
3.2 Manufactured Elbows, Nipples and Couplings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

4. General Installation Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

4.1 Conduit Cutting and Threading Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
4.2 Bending Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4.3 Fittings for use with RMC, IMC and EMT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
4.4 Support of Raceways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.5 Firestopping and Fire Blocking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
4.6 Corrosion Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
4.7 Equipment Grounding Using Steel Conduit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

5. Specific Installation Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

5.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
5.2 Protection Against EMI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
5.3 Raceways Installed in Concrete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
5.4 Communications Circuits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
5.5 Underground Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
5.6 Verification of Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

6. Installation Practices for PVC-Coated Conduit and Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

6.1 Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
6.2 Clamping (Vising) PVC-Coated Conduit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
6.3 Cutting and Threading PVC-Coated Conduit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
6.4 Bending PVC-Coated Conduit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
6.5 Installing PVC-Coated Conduit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
6.6 Patching Damaged Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
6.7 Equipment Grounding and Bonding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

ANNEX A: Threading Conduit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

ANNEX B: Grounding and EMI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

ANNEX C: Reference Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

1. Scope
This standard covers the installation of steel rigid It is essential that the installer be concerned,
metal conduit (RMC), steel intermediate metal informed, and have pride in the finished product.
conduit (IMC), and steel electrical metallic tubing Maintaining the effectiveness of Code requirements
(EMT). Conduit with a supplementary PVC coating depends on selecting the right product for the specific
is also included. These conduits are used as raceway job, good installation workmanship, and proper
systems for electrical wiring in residential, maintenance during the life cycle.
commercial, and industrial occupancies. This
standard includes information on fittings and other This standard is intended to enhance electrical safety
applicable accessories necessary for a quality by aiding the installer in meeting the “neat and
installation of these raceways. All information in this workmanlike” requirements, reducing future repair
publication is intended to comply with the National needs, providing for future expansion to avoid
Electrical Code® (NFPA Standard 70). Installers electrical overload, creating an installation which will
should always follow the NEC, applicable state and protect the wire conductors from mechanical abuse,
local codes, and manufacturers’ instructions when and providing electrical continuity of the raceway
installing electrical products and systems. system.

Installations must be performed “in a neat and NOTE: For continuing updated information on these
workmanlike manner.” This is one of the most basic Guidelines, check www.steelconduit.org
and important requirements for electrical wiring in
the National Electrical Code.

1
2. Glossary (as used in this Standard)
Alternate corrosion protection Coupling, integral
A coating(s), other than one consisting solely of zinc, A coupling meeting the requirements of UL 514B
which, upon evaluation, has demonstrated the ability which is assembled to the conduit, tubing, or elbow
to provide the level of corrosion resistance required during manufacture and is not readily removable. The
on the exterior of the conduit. It is not prohibited that integral coupling of electrical metallic tubing is a
the coatings include zinc. “belled” end with set screws.

Approved Coupling, standard conduit

Acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction. As applied to IMC or RMC this is a threaded,
NOTE: “The authority having jurisdiction” is most straight-tapped means of joining two pieces of
often the electrical inspector, but could be a project conduit. Such coupling meets the requirements of the
manager or other final approval authority. applicable UL conduit standard.

Authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) Equipment grounding conductor

The organization, office, or individual with the As defined in the NEC. In addition, it is the path by
authority to determine which code requirements which a fault is transmitted to the overcurrent
apply, how they are to be interpreted, and who gives protection device.
final approval to the electrical installation. Some NOTE: Steel conduit and tubing are called
examples are the electrical inspector or other equipment grounding conductors, as are copper or
government entity and insurance underwriters. aluminum wire.

Bend Firestopping
A curvature of the conduit or tubing made so the Using approved materials (generally detailed by
raceway will fit a specific geometric location. This building codes or specifications) which fill the
can be a factory elbow or a field bend of the raceway. opening around the conduit to prevent the spread of
fire and smoke and assure the fire rating of the wall,
Circuit loading floor, or ceiling being penetrated is not reduced.
Concentration of circuits in one raceway.
Fire-rated assemblies
Conduit connection Construction materials assembled together, then
Interface between conduit or tubing and other tested and rated for ability to inhibit the spread of fire
equipment. for a specified period of time under specific test
conditions. The rating is expressed in hours; e.g. 1
Conduit joint hour, 2 hour, etc. Information can be found in various
Coupling of two pieces of conduit or tubing, or laboratory “listing” directories.
coupling a length of conduit or tubing to a bend.
NOTE: One of the most important elements of an Fitting, threadless
electrical installation. A fitting intended to secure, without threading, rigid
or intermediate metal conduit or electrical metallic
tubing to another piece of equipment (connector) or
to an adjacent length of conduit or tubing (coupling).

2
Galvanized Primary coating
Protected from corrosion by a specified coating of The corrosion protection coating required by the
zinc which may be applied by either the hot-dip or applicable standard for listing.
electro-galvanized method.
Running threads
Home run Continuous straight threads cut into a conduit and
The run of raceway between the extended down its length.
panelboard/switchboard and the first distribution
point. Raceway
As defined in the NEC, this term includes more than
Identified (for use) steel conduit. In this standard it is steel rigid metal
As defined in the NEC. conduit, intermediate metal conduit, or electrical
NOTE: For the purposes of this standard the product metallic tubing, designed for enclosing and
has been evaluated for a specific purpose, protecting electrical or optical fiber wires and cables.
environment or application and written
documentation or labeling verifying this exists. Supplementary coating
A coating other than the primary coating applied to
Penetration firestop system listed rigid metal conduit either at the factory or in
A listed assemblage of specific materials or products the field to provide additional corrosion protection
that are designed, tested and fire resistance-rated in where needed.
accordance with ASTM E814 to resist, for a
prescribed period of time, the spread of fire through
penetrations in fire-rated assemblies.

3
3. General Product Information
3.1 Steel Conduit and Tubing Steel RMC can have a primary coating of zinc, a
combination of zinc and organic coatings, or a
The wall thickness and strength of steel make RMC, nonmetallic coating with or without zinc (such as
IMC, and EMT the wiring methods recognized as PVC). Other supplementary coatings can be applied
providing the most mechanical protection to the to all three where additional corrosion protection is
enclosed wire conductors. Additionally, a properly needed.
installed metal conduit system is recognized by the
NEC as providing its own equipment grounding path. (NOTE: Contact suppliers with product-specific
questions).
3.1.1 Steel rigid metal conduit - RMC (ferrous
metal) Special installation practices and tools are generally
required for working with PVC-coated products.
(NOTE: Conduits manufactured from aluminum, These practices are covered in Section 6.
stainless steel, red brass, or other metals are not
covered by this standard.) Steel RMC is the heaviest-weight and thickest-wall
steel conduit. Where galvanized by the hot-dip
Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC) is a listed threaded process, it has a coating of zinc on both the inside
metal raceway of circular cross section with a and outside. Electro-galvanized rigid has a coating of
coupling which can be either a straight tapped zinc on the exterior only, with corrosion-resistant
conduit coupling (see Figure 1) or the integral type organic coatings on the interior. Rigid with alternate
(see Figure 4). corrosion protection generally has organic coatings
on both the exterior and the interior surfaces.
Threads are protected on the uncoupled end by color- Galvanized RMC has no temperature limitations and
coded thread protectors which keep them clean and can be used indoors, outdoors, underground,
sharp and aid in trade size recognition. RMC is concealed or exposed. RMC with coatings that are
available in trade sizes 1/2 through 6. Thread not zinc-based sometimes has temperature limitations
protectors for trade sizes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 are color- or is not listed for use in environmental air spaces;
coded blue; trade sizes 1/2, 1-1/2, 2-1/2, 3-1/2 are consult manufacturers’ listings and markings.
black, and trade sizes 3/4 and 1-1/4 are red. (See
Table 1 for Metric Trade Size Designators.) The 3.1.2 Intermediate metal conduit –
nominal finished length of RMC with coupling is IMC (ferrous metal)
10 feet (3.05m).
(NOTE: IMC is only manufactured from steel)

Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC) is a listed

threaded steel raceway of circular cross section with
a coupling which can be either a straight-tapped
conduit coupling (see Figure 2) or the integral type
(see Figure 4). Threads are protected on the
uncoupled end by color-coded thread protectors
which keep them clean and sharp and aid in trade
size recognition. IMC is available in trade sizes 1/2
through 4. Thread protectors for trade sizes 1, 2, 3, 4,
are color-coded orange; trade sizes 1/2, 1-1/2, 2-1/2,
Figure 1: Steel Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC)
(Courtesy of Allied Tube and Conduit)

4
3-1/2 are yellow; and trade sizes 3/4 and 1-1/4 are comprised of a “belled” end of the tube with set
green. (See Table 1 for Metric Trade Size screws (see Figure 4).
Designators.) The nominal finished length of IMC
with coupling is 10 feet (3.05m). 3.1.4 PVC-coated conduit — (See Section 6)

IMC has a reduced wall thickness and weighs about 3.2 Manufactured Elbows, Nipples, and
one-third less than RMC. The outside has a zinc- Couplings
based coating and the inside has an organic
corrosion-resistant coating. IMC is interchangeable 3.2.1 Factory elbows
with steel RMC. Both have threads with a 3/4-inch
per foot (1 in 16) taper; use the same couplings and Elbows are bent sections of conduit or tubing used to
fittings; have the same support requirements; and are change raceway direction or bypass obstructions.
permitted in the same locations. IMC and RMC elbows are threaded on each end.
Elbows of the correct type and dimensions are an
3.1.3 Electrical metallic tubing - EMT (ferrous important element of the raceway installation.
metal)
Factory-made elbows in both standard and special
(NOTE: Aluminum EMT is not covered by this radius are readily available for all sizes of RMC,
standard.) IMC, and EMT. Elbows with integral couplings are
available in trade sizes 2-1/2 through 4. Specialized
Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT), also commonly large radius elbows, which are often referred to as
called thin-wall, is a listed steel raceway of circular “sweeps,” are also available. They are custom-
cross section which is unthreaded, and nominally 10 ordered to solve various installation problems. Some
feet (3.05m) long (see Figure 3). The outside typical uses of sweeps are to facilitate easier wire
corrosion protection is zinc-based and the inside has pulling, install conduit in limited or geometrically
an organic corrosion-resistant coating. Trade sizes are difficult space, provide specific stub-up length, or
1/2 through 4. (See Table 1 for Metric Trade Size enhance protection of communication or fiber optic
Designators.) EMT is installed by use of set-screw or cables during pulls.
compression-type couplings and connectors. EMT is Physical dimensions of factory-made elbows for
permitted to have an integral coupling which is RMC, IMC, and EMT vary between manufacturers.

Figure 2: Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC) Figure 3: Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT)
(Courtesy of Allied Tube and Conduit) (Courtesy of Allied Tube and Conduit)

5
When installing factory elbows for a job, being aware When a nipple is installed between boxes, enclosures,
of this variability can avoid installation problems. etc. and the nipple does not exceed 24 inches (610
Always measure to be safe. To order factory mm), wire fill is permitted to be 60%. Factory-made
elbows, you need to specify the raceway type, trade RMC nipples are threaded on both ends and are
size, and angle of bend. If ordering a special radius readily available in all sizes in lengths 12 inches (305
elbow, the radius will also have to be specified. mm) and under. Longer lengths are available by
special order or may be field-fabricated.
3.2.2 Nipples
3.2.3 Couplings
A nipple is a short length of conduit or tubing
material which is used to extend a conduit system. Each length of RMC and IMC is furnished with a
Nipples are used between conduit or tubing and coupling on one end. Additional threaded couplings
items such as (but not limited to) fittings, boxes, and are readily available for all conduit sizes. RMC and
enclosures or between two boxes, two enclosures, IMC with an integral coupling are available in trade
etc. When nipples are used to extend a conduit run sizes 2-1/2 through 4. This is a coupling which
to an enclosure, box, etc., the percentage wire fill permits joint make-up by turning the outside
requirements shown in Chapter 9, Table 1 of the coupling rather than the conduit (see Figure 4).
NEC apply; for example, 40-percent fill for three or EMT with an integral coupling is available in trade
more conductors. sizes 2 through 4. The EMT has a belled end with
set-screws (see Figure 4).

Table 1: Metric Trade Size Designators for For threadless fittings for use with RMC, IMC, and
RMC, IMC, and EMT EMT, see section 4.3.
*Trade Size Designator
English Metric
1/2 16
3/4 21
1 27
1 1/4 35
1 1/2 41
2 53
2 1/2 63
3 78
3 1/2 91
Figure 4: EMT, IMC and RMC with integral coupling
4 103
(Courtesy of Allied Tube and Conduit)
5 129
6 155
*Identifier only; not an actual dimension

6
4. General Installation Practices
(NOTE: See Section 6 for installation practices for b) Do not use worn dies. Although ragged and torn
PVC-coated conduit and fittings.) threads or threads which are not cut deep enough can
be caused by poor threading practices; they can also
4.1 Conduit Cutting and Threading indicate worn dies. If inspection shows this to be
Guidelines true, see Annex A for procedure to change dies.

Close attention to measuring the exact length of c) To adjust the dies, loosen the screws or locking
conduit needed is important for a quality installation. collar that hold the cutting dies in the head. When the
screws or collar are loosened, the dies should move
4.1.1 Cutting and threading RMC and IMC freely away from the head.

(NOTE: Although coupling threads are straight- d) Screw the die head onto the threaded portion of a
tapped, conduit threads are tapered.) factory-threaded nipple or factory-threaded conduit
until the die fits the factory thread. If the die head has
Field threading is to be performed in accordance with an adjusting lever, set the head to cut a slightly
the following procedures unless manufacturer’s oversized thread.
instructions differ. The operating and safety
instructions should be read and understood prior (NOTE: This will ordinarily be one thread short of
to operating the equipment. being flush with the face of a thread gauge when the
gauge is hand tight. This is within the tolerance limits
a) Use a standard 3/4 inch per foot taper National which allow the thread to be one thread short or long
Pipe Thread (NPT) die. The threads shall be cut full of being flush with the gauge face.)
and clean using sharp dies.
e) Tighten the screws or locking collar so that the
dies are tightly held in the head.

Figure 5: Lower the roll cutter to the desired length. Figure 6: The roll cutter will leave a burr on the
Tighten the handle about one quarterture per each inside diameter of the conduit. The burr must be
revolution and repeat until conduit is cut through. removed to ensure that the wire insulation will not be
(Courtesy of Wheatland Tube) damaged during pulling. (Courtesy of Wheatland Tube)

7
f) Remove the set-up piece of threaded conduit. The After the dies have engaged for a thread or two, they
die is ready for use. will feed along without pressure.

g) After adjusting the dies as outlined above, proceed k) Stop the cutting as soon as the die has taken hold
as follows: and apply thread cutting oil freely to the dies and the
area to be threaded (see Figure 9).
h) Cut the conduit with a saw or roll cutter. Be
careful to make a straight cut (see Figure 5). (NOTE: Frequent flooding of the dies with a good
grade of cutting oil will further safeguard against
(NOTE: If the die is not started on the pipe squarely, poor threads. The oil keeps the material lubricated
crooked threads will result. When using the wheel- and insures a smoother cut by reducing friction and
and roll cutter to cut pipe, the cutter must be revolved heat. Insufficient cutting oil will also cause ragged
completely around the pipe. Tighten the handle about threads. The flow of the cutting fluid to the die head
one quarter turn after each rotation and repeat this should be such that the cutting surfaces of the die
procedure until the pipe is cut through.) segments are flooded. As a general rule, there is no
such thing as too much oil at the die head.)
i) After cutting and prior to threading, ream the
interior and remove sharp edges from the exterior l) Thread one thread short of the end of the chaser.
(see Figures 6, 7 and 8).
(NOTE: It is a good practice to thread one thread
(NOTE: Reaming the conduit after threading will short to prevent butting of conduit in a coupling and
stretch or oval the end of the conduit.) allow the coupling to cover all of the threads on the
conduit when wrench tight.)
j) To start a universal die head, press it against the
conduit end with one hand and turn the stock with m) Back the die head off and clean the chips from
the other (see Figures 10 and 11).With a drop head the thread (see Figure 10).
die, the stock remains stationary and the head rotates.

Figure 7: Insert the (flute) reamer into work piece and Figure 8: A minimal amount of pressure will remove
rotate until burr is removed. (Courtesy of Wheatland Tube) the burr completely and eliminate possible flaring of
the conduit end. (Courtesy of Wheatland Tube)

8
4.1.2 Importance of thread length To insure that the threads are properly engaged, the
coupling should be made up hand-tight, then wrench-
The length of the thread is important and the tightened. Generally, wrench-tightening should not
applicable UL requirements specify the manufactured exceed three additional threads (see Figure 13). It
length of the thread and the tolerance. A ring gauge is should never be necessary to use an extension handle
used to determine the correct thread length at the on a wrench to make up a tight joint. The only time
factory (see Figures 11 and 12). Good practice is to an extension handle should be used is to dismantle a
thread the conduit one thread short. This is to prevent stubborn joint in an existing line.
conduit from butting inside the coupling. This
practice will permit a good electrical connection A simple rule regarding the use of tools is to select
between the conduits and couplings. the right type and the right size. The proper size
wrench for a given conduit size trade is indicated in
Table 2.

4.1.3 Protection of field cut threads

The NEC requires in 300.6 that where corrosion

protection is necessary and the conduit is threaded
in the field, the thread shall be coated with an
approved electrically-conductive, corrosion-
resistant compound (see Figure 20). Coatings for
this purpose, listed under UL category “FOIZ”
are available. Zinc-rich paint or other coatings
acceptable to the AHJ may be used. (NOTE:
Corrosion protection is provided on factory-cut
threads at time of manufacturing.)
Figure 9: When proper thread length is achieved the
end of the conduit becomes flush with the ends of the die
segments. (Courtesy of Wheatland Tube) Table 2:
Proper Wrench Size
Conduit Trade Size Wrench Size
under 1/2 10"
1/2 12"
3/4 through 1 1/4 14"
1 1/2 18"
2 – 2 1/2 24"
3–4 36"
5-6 48"

Figure 10: Wire brush the threads to remove any

shavings or debris. (Courtesy of Wheatland Tube)

9
 4.2 Bending Guidelines

The variety of electrical installations makes field

bending necessary. While a full range of factory
elbows are readily available, they do not address the
variability of stubs, back-to-back, offset, and saddle
bends encountered in the field-routing of conduit.
These most commonly-used types of bends can be
quickly, efficiently, and economically made by a
knowledgeable and experienced installer. The skills
needed to obtain a level of proficiency are readily
learned and require knowledge of basic mathematics,
industry terminology and bending tools.
Figure 11: Threads should be checked with a NPT-L1
threaded ring gauge to ensure proper make up.
Manufacturers of bending equipment publish
(Courtesy of Wheatland Tube) manuals for each specific bender model which
provide excellent in-depth information on bending
conduit. The information in this section is
supplemental to that provided by the manufacturers.
Contact bender manufacturers for complete
information.

4.2.1 General information

a) Read and understand all the bender manufacturers’

operating and safety instructions before operating
their equipment.

b) It is extremely important that the bender, its

components and accessories are matched to the
Figure 12: A proper thread should be free from chips or
tears over the entire length. (Courtesy of Wheatland Tube)

4.1.4 Cutting EMT

Cut the EMT square using a hack saw or band saw.

Do not use roll-type tubing cutters.

(NOTE: Roll-type cutters require reaming which

flares the wall of EMT, making fittings difficult to
install.)

A tool designed for the purpose is best for reaming

the inside of EMT. Where side cutter pliers or other Figure 13: The coupling must be assembled wrench tight.
general tools are used, take special care not to flare (Courtesy of Wheatland Tube)
the ends.

10
conduit type and size being bent because of the type bender. Trade sizes 1-1/4 and 1-1/2 require a
forces being applied. When using a power bender, it power bender or a mechanical ratchet-type bender.
is important that pins are in the proper pin holes for Bend trade sizes 2 and larger on a power bender.
the conduit size.
Do not put conduit ends in the hook or bending shoe
c) Although the National Electric Code allows up to of the bender because thread damage and end
360 degrees between pulling points, using as few flattening will occur.
bends as possible, and none exceeding 90 degrees,
will make wire pulling easier. The fewer total degrees When an EMT bender is designated as suitable for
between pulling points and the use of shallow bends bending rigid conduit, a bender shoe one trade size
combine to reduce the strain created by pulling wire. larger than the conduit to be bent is to be used. Using
For multi-conductor control cable and the EMT bender will result in a slightly larger radius.
communications cable, it is recommended that runs
be limited to two 90 degree bends (a total of 180 4.2.3 Bending IMC
degrees).
A full shoe or universal bender is the preferred
d) Before placing the conduit in the bender, bending tool for IMC. Limit hand bending to trade
accurately measure and mark the conduit with a thin sizes 1/2, 3/4, and 1. To make hand bending of trade
line that goes completely around the conduit. This size 1 easier, use a two position foot-pedal bender.
will assure the mark is visible if the conduit needs to This allows more weight to be applied for leverage.
be rotated.
Trade sizes 1-1/4 and 1-1/2 require a power bender or
e) All radius measurements shall be made to the a mechanical ratchet-type bender. Trade sizes 2 and
centerline of the bend and shall comply with NEC, larger require a power bender.
Chapter 9, Table 2.
(NOTE: Benders recommended for a larger size
f) Where hand benders do not have degree markings, range may be capable of bending some sizes below
degrees of bend shall be measured to the inner edge its primary range if so equipped.)
of the conduit; the surface that fits in the groove.
4.2.4 Bending EMT
g) Where it is necessary to compensate for
springback, slightly overbend. Use a bender of the correct trade size designed for
bending EMT. EMT trade sizes 1/2, 3/4, and 1 can be
h) When using a hand bender, choose a solid, flat bent with hand benders because of the thinner wall.
surface. Pin the conduit firmly to the surface with Use a mechanical ratchet-type bender for trade sizes
steady foot pressure sufficient to keep the conduit 1-1/4 and 1-1/2. Use a power bender for trade sizes 2
and bender marks aligned and the conduit nestled in and larger.
the groove throughout the full arc of the bend.
(NOTE: Bending EMT in an oversized EMT bender
4.2.2 Bending RMC will flatten the bend and possibly kink the tube.)

(NOTE: Benders recommended for a larger size When making a short radius bend, straightening stubs
range may be capable of bending some sizes below in concrete, or applying greater than normal stress to
their primary range if so equipped.) bend 1/2 or 3/4 EMT, place a mandrel into the EMT
to support the wall. Any object that can be inserted to
Trade sizes 1/2, 3/4, and 1 can be bent with a hand- support the wall and is flexible enough to be bent and

11
is removable can be used. A spring, rope, or hose are (NOTE: Do not take applications for granted. Many
typical items used. Use a lubricant to aid in fitting designs look the same but may contain subtle
extracting the mandrel. construction differences designed to enhance
performance in particular applications. Listed fittings
Knocked-down EMT stubs which can be bent using a contain required, informative markings and any
hand bender (1/2 through 1) can be straightened by specific conditions for use. For specific selection and
placing the bender handle over the stub and pulling installation guidelines, consult NEMA FB2.10,
back to the desired position. If kinked, insert a drift- “Selection and Installation Guidelines for Fittings for
pin, working it back and forth while inserting; this Use with Nonflexible Metallic Conduit and Tubing”.)
should force the tube back to round.
Fittings and raceway supports shall be used only with
To shift the position of a stub of a vertical run when conduit of the trade size indicated on the fitting or
the stub is slightly out of line, remove handle from raceway support or its smallest unit shipping
bender and place bender head on the EMT with the container.
step-end of bender down. Brace bender head with
your foot and apply pressure against tube and pull. 4.3.2 Fittings for special applications
Overbend the stub slightly beyond the intended
position to compensate for springback. Place handle Threadless fittings intended for use in wet locations
back into bender and bend to desired vertical are marked “Raintight” or “Wet locations” on the
position. fitting or its smallest unit shipping container.
“Raintight” fitting designs that require a gasket or
When a stub or horizontal run is located close to the sealing ring installed between the fitting and a box
floor, remove concrete from around the EMT shall be installed only with the specific component
raceway. Put the bender in the stub with the step-end marked on the fitting’s smallest unit shipping
down, brace with your foot and bend. container.

(NOTE: If step-end is not down, the bender could get (NOTE: “Raintight” or “Liquidtight” fittings are not
wedged during the bending process.) necessarily suitable for use in applications where
submersion in water is expected. “Raintight” fittings
To bend EMT coming out of a wall, remove handle are not necessarily considered “Liquidtight.”
and insert a close nipple. Thread a 90 degree pipe “Liquidtight” fittings are intended for use in typical
elbow onto the nipple and thread the handle into the wet locations and also in “wet” industrial
elbow. The handle will parallel the bender center. environments which may contain machine oils and
This provides clearance to swing the handle down to coolants.)
make the bend.
RMC and IMC fittings for use in industrial
4.3 Fittings For Use With RMC, IMC, and EMT applications involving sprayed mineral oils and
coolants are marked “Liquidtight” on the fitting or its
(NOTE: See Section 6 for PVC-coated conduit) smallest unit shipping container. Threadless fittings
intended for embedment in poured concrete are
4.3.1 Size and raceway type marked “Concrete-tight” or “Concrete-tight when
taped,” or “Raintight” on the fitting’s smallest unit
Before installing a fitting or a raceway support, shipping container.
review the packaging labels containing specific
applications for which the fitting or raceway support (NOTE: Taping is adequate to prevent the entrance of
is recommended and/or listed. concrete aggregate into the raceway or box. Concrete
aggregate consists of cement combined with inert

12
material such as coarse sand. When hardened, such 4.3.3 Installing fittings
aggregate may be abrasive and might pose a risk to
abrade conductor insulation or effectively reduce the 4.3.3.1 Threadless fittings
area inside the raceway. Fittings listed as
“Raintight” are also “Concrete-tight”.) Threadless fittings shall not be assembled to threaded
RMC or IMC unless specifically recommended by
4.3.2.2 Expansion fittings the fitting manufacturer. Where threadless fittings
are to be assembled to RMC, IMC and EMT, conduit
Expansion fittings shall be installed where significant ends shall:
temperature differentials are anticipated. When
conduit is installed as outdoor raceway spans a) have squarely cut ends, free of internal and external
between buildings, attached to bridges, on rooftops, burrs, and circular form as provided from the factory,
etc., where expansion and contraction would result
b) be free from dirt or foreign matter on the surface
from the direct heat of the sun coupled with
of the conduit to be inserted into the fitting, and
significant temperature drops at night, the full
coefficient of expansion shall be applied in c) have the ends of the conduit or tubing assembled
determining the need for expansion fittings. Table 3 flush against the fitting’s end stop. Careful
shows length changes for steel conduit and tubing at consideration shall be given to the torque applied to
selected temperature differentials. the fitting’s securement means.
(NOTE: Where the conduit is not exposed to the
direct heat of the sun, expansion fittings are not (NOTE: Listed fittings are tested under prescribed
generally necessary because the coefficients of torque which represent normal, not excessive force.
expansion for steel and common building materials Performance is not enhanced, and can be reduced, by
are so similar.) overtorquing the fitting’s securement means.)

Table 3: Expansion Characteristics of Steel Conduit and Tubing

Coefficient of Thermal Expansion = 6.50 x 10 -6 in./in./ °F*
Temperature Length Change Temperature Length Change Temperature Length Change Temperature Length Change
Changes in Steel Conduit Changes in Steel Conduit Changes in Steel Conduit Changes in Steel Conduit
Degrees F in./100 feet Degrees F in./100 feet Degrees F in./100 feet Degrees F in./100 feet
5 0.04 55 0.44 105 0.82 155 1.21
10 0.08 60 0.47 110 0.86 160 1.25
15 0.12 65 0.51 115 0.90 165 1.29
20 0.16 70 0.55 120 0.94 170 1.33
25 0.20 75 0.59 125 0.98 175 1.37
30 0.23 80 0.62 130 1.01 180 1.40
35 0.27 85 0.66 135 1.05 185 1.44
40 0.31 90 0.70 140 1.09 190 1.48
45 0.35 95 0.74 145 1.13 195 1.52
50 0.39 100 0.78 150 1.17 200 1.56
*A Fine Print Note in Section 300.7(B) of the NEC refers the user to the Expansion Characteristics of PVC ,Table 352.44(A) for Rigid Nonmetallic Conduit
®

and suggests multiplying the lengths in that table by 0.20 in order to obtain a nominal number for steel conduit. Since the coefficient of steel conduit is
between 2-3 times less than that of PVC conduit you would need more expansion fittings for PVC conduit, for a given temperature and length than for
steel conduit. We have used the coefficient of expansion of steel, rather than the 0.20 multiplier, to calculate the exact length of change figures in Table 3.

13
4.3.3.2 Set-screw type pulled. This bushing is often mistaken for a conduit
end stop. It is not necessary that the conduit be
The length of screws provided with set-screw type inserted flush against this bushing to assure a secure
fittings varies. The appropriate torque for some joint.
designs is reached when the head of the screw
touches a screw boss on the fitting. This cannot be 4.3.4 Attachment to boxes and support
universally relied upon, however. Screws on certain
fitting designs, particularly larger trade sizes, can Prior to assembly to a box or enclosure or a
offer more than one tightening option including threadless coupling, RMC, IMC and EMT shall be
screwdriver (Slot, Phillips, or Robertson-square supported at intervals required by the NEC, using
drive) and bolt head for wrench application (hex or raceway supports intended for the purpose secured by
square). Greater mechanical advantage and torque hardware acceptable to the local jurisdiction.
can generally be achieved with a wrench. Where both
screwdriver and wrench application options are (NOTE: The variability of mounting surfaces,
offered, torque should be limited to that which can be expected loads, and application environments will
applied by the screwdriver. determine the appropriate support options and
securement hardware. Project specifications normally
4.3.3.3 Compression (gland) type calculate requirements based on minimum spacing
intervals given in the NEC. Closer support intervals
Generally, most compression gland nuts achieve than are required by the NEC are an acceptable
maximum securement after hand tightening and then option to heavier supports and mounting hardware in
wrench tightening one or two additional turns. some applications.)

Prior to embedment in poured concrete, all threadless Properly align the raceway, fittings, and knockouts to
fittings, including those marked “Concrete-tight,” provide secure mechanical and electrical connections.
shall be taped adequately to prevent the entrance of Allow sufficient conduit length to complete
concrete aggregate where they will be embedded engagement of the conduit and fittings at joints and
more than 24 inches or where the pour area will be entries.
subjected to a concrete vibrator. Tape shall be applied
after the fitting is assembled and secured to the Conduit bushings shall not be used to secure threaded
conduit. RMC or IMC to a box or enclosure. A locknut shall
always be assembled between a conduit bushing and
4.3.3.4 Threaded fittings the inside of the box or enclosure.

Threaded joints, both fitting to conduit and fitting to EMT connectors are permitted to be assembled into
threaded integral box entries, shall be made up threaded entries of boxes, conduit bodies or internally
wrenchtight. threaded fittings having tapered threads (NPT). EMT
fittings designed to NEMA FB 1 “Fittings, Cast
(NOTE: Avoid excessive force. Generally a force Metal Boxes, and Conduit Bodies for Conduit and
equivalent to handtight plus one full turn with an Cable Assemblies,” have straight threads (NPS).
appropriate tool is recommended. This should assure Threaded openings where these fittings are intended
engagement of at least three full threads.) to be used are permitted to have either tapered (NPT)
or straight (NPS) threads. Care should be taken to
Conduit bodies generally have an integral bushing to insure that the threaded entry will accommodate a
provide a smooth surface for conductors when minimum of 3 full engaged threads of the fitting.

14
Where a locknut is provided with a fitting as the 4.4.2 Securing and fastening
means of securement to a box or enclosure, the
locknut is to be secured by hand-tightening to the Raceways are permitted to be mounted directly to the
enclosure plus 1/4 turn using an appropriate tool. building structure. Assure that supporting means and
their associated fasteners are compatible with the
(NOTE: While securing the locknut, take care to mounting surface from which they are supported.
avoid excessive pressure where gripping the body of Raceway supports shall be installed only on conduit
the fitting is necessary.) of the trade size indicated on the fitting or its smallest
unit shipping container.
Do not rely upon locknuts to penetrate nonconductive
coatings on enclosures. Such coatings shall be The following supporting and fastening methods are
removed in the locknut contact area prior to raceway recommended (also see 4.3.4 “Note”):
assembly to assure a continuous ground path is a) Raceways exposed on masonry surfaces,
achieved. Touch up bare area after fitting assembly as plaster, drywall or wood framing members: One-
needed. hole straps, two-hole straps, conduit hangers, or
similar products intended for the purpose, securely
4.3.5.Verification of installation fastened with appropriate hardware. Conduit or
tubing in trade sizes 1/2 through 1 are permitted to be
After the raceway is fully installed and supported, supported by nail-straps in wood framing members.
and prior to installing conductors in the raceway, all
fittings and locknuts shall be re-examined for b) Raceways mounted on metal framing
secureness (see 5.5). members: One-hole straps, two-hole straps, conduit
hangers or similar products intended for the purpose,
4.4 Support of Raceways fastened with metal screws or rivets. When using
clamp-on supports add screws, rivets, beam clamps,
Support and securely fasten all raceways in place in or similar means for extra support, unless the clamp-
accordance with NEC requirements. on supports are the hammer-on or press-on type.

4.4.1 Supporting c) Raceways run through openings in metal or

wood studs: Such openings can be used for support
Follow all Code requirements for spacing of supports where the openings are no more than 10 feet apart.
and frequency of securing RMC, IMC and EMT. The Secure fastening at termination points is still
requirement to securely fasten raceways within the required. Where the conduit or tubing transitions to
specified distance from each “termination point” vertical, be sure to secure it to the stud and within
includes, but is not limited to, outlet and junction three feet of the termination.
boxes, device boxes, cabinets, and conduit bodies.
Each raceway shall be so secured. Do not omit any d) Raceways suspended below ceilings or
supports. structural members such as beams, columns, or
purlins, or in ceiling cavities: These conduits are
(NOTE: Proper support and secure fastening protects best supported by lay-in pipe hangers. The pipe
the raceway joint during maintenance in the area of hangers are to be supported by threaded rod, which
the raceway; this will help ensure a continuous is, in turn, fastened in place by beam clamps or
ground path. Good workmanship in this area similar devices. Strut-type channel can also provide
improves safety for the installer, other workers, and secure support. Raceways are not permitted to lie on
the public.) the suspended ceiling. In fire-rated ceiling cavities,

15
support by the ceiling wires is not permitted unless of the insulation of the conductors within the conduit
tested as part of the fire-rated assembly. A separate when subjected to that temperature cannot be verified.
support system must be installed for the conduit.
Where this system is wire, it shall be identified as 4.5.1 Penetration of fire-rated assemblies
conduit support. Conduit support wires must be
secured at both ends. In non-fire-rated ceiling The raceway installer shall determine if the walls,
cavities, the ceiling wires can be used for support floors, or ceilings are fire-rated prior to installing
where installed in accordance with the raceway systems. Penetration openings shall be
manufacturer’s instructions. properly filled for fire safety, using approved
materials. The NEC and building codes require that
e) Groups of raceways: Mount on strut-type openings around raceways which penetrate a fire-
channels, and secure in place with strut-type channel rated assembly be sealed to prevent smoke, gases,
straps identified for the particular channel and and flames from one area migrating into another.
raceways. Channel shall be fastened in place by (NOTE: This is called firestopping.) There are many
means suitable to the mounting surface. listed penetration firestopping systems which can be
used to seal openings; the listing instructions shall be
f) Support at new concrete pours: In these cases, strictly followed.
place approved channel inserts into the concrete pour.
Raceways will be mounted to the channels later in Most building codes permit openings around
the construction process. galvanized steel RMC, IMC, and EMT in concrete or
masonry to be filled with cement, mortar, or grout.
g) Structural steel members: Where raceways are However, since local codes sometimes vary, the local
mounted inside the web of I-beams, column-mount requirements should be checked prior to installation.
supports are permitted to support the conduit. Also, project specifications often describe exactly
how these openings are to be filled, even though the
4.5 Firestopping and Fire Blocking codes might permit other methods. Firestopping
systems listed for use with metallic raceways are
RMC, IMC, and EMT do not require fire ratings. permitted to fill the space surrounding the conduit or
Fire resistance ratings apply only to assemblies in tubing.
their entirety. Building codes consider steel conduit
and tubing to be non-combustible. Although fire In all cases, the raceway installer shall use materials
testing is not required by the UL standard to which which assure that fire ratings of the penetrated
the products are listed, RMC, IMC and EMT have assembly are not degraded by the installation of a
been exposed at UL to the ASTM E119 test in a fire raceway system.
of up to four hours in duration. The temperature
reached almost 2000 degrees F. The conduit was still 4.5.2 Penetration of non-fire-rated assemblies
intact at the end of the test. This information is
contained in a report entitled Annular Space Openings in non-fire-rated assemblies are to be filled
Protection of Openings Created by Penetrations of with noncombustible materials unless specified
Tubular Steel Conduit - a review of UL Special otherwise by the applicable building code or the
Services Investigation Investigations File NC546 project specification. (NOTE: This is called
Project90NK111650, which is available for fireblocking.)
downloading at www.steelconduit.org. Since the
conduit was tested without conductors, the condition

16
4.5.3 Thermal protection of steel raceways 4.6.1 Installed in soil

The NEC and local or state code requirements for Where installed in contact with soil, RMC and IMC
fire protection of emergency systems and fire-pump and associated fittings require supplementary
circuits shall be reviewed prior to installing these corrosion protection if:
circuits. Local codes sometimes vary from the NEC.
Steel raceways withstand fire; however, ordinary a) Soil resistivity is less than 2000 ohm-centimeter.
conductor insulation melts when exposed to elevated
temperatures and a short circuit can be created. This b) Local experience has confirmed that the soil is
is the reason for special protection of emergency and extremely corrosive.
fire-pump circuits.
(NOTE: Soils producing severe corrosive effects have
Methods of thermal protection include putting the low electrical resistivity, expressed in ohm-
raceways in a fire-rated enclosure (horizontal or centimeters. Local electric utilities commonly
vertical), embedding in concrete, using a listed wrap measure the resistivity of soils. The authority having
system for protection from fire (sometimes called jurisdiction has the authority to determine the
Electrical Circuit Protection System or Thermal necessity for additional protection.)
Barrier Protection for Electrical components), and
using conductors specifically rated to maintain the EMT in direct contact with the soil generally requires
circuit. supplementary corrosion protection. However, local
experience in some areas of the country has shown
(NOTE: Fire wraps can affect the temperature of the this to be unnecessary.
conductors and the need for ampacity derating must
be determined. It is also important to determine that 4.6.2 Transition from concrete to soil
the support system is protected and will withstand the
fire exposure.) Where RMC, IMC, and EMT emerge from concrete
into soil, it is recommended that protection be
The NEC does not require these thermal protection provided a minimum of 4 inches on each side of the
methods where conduit is installed in a fully point where the raceway emerges. In areas such as
sprinklered building. Local codes shall be consulted coastal regions, use the same method of protection
and the requirements of the applicable code and or for EMT emerging from concrete into salt air to
project specification must be followed. lengthen the service life. Examples of protection
include paint, tape, and shrink-tubing.
4.6 Corrosion Protection
4.6.3 Installed in concrete slab
RMC, IMC and EMT sometimes require
supplementary corrosion protection when installed in Where installed in a concrete slab below grade,
environments generally called “severely corrosive.” determine if EMT requires supplementary protection
Information on some indoor wet locations considered for that location. RMC and IMC do not require
severely corrosive can be found in the NEC. See supplementary corrosion protection in this
Section 4.6.1 of this article for information on application.
determining soil corrosivity. Specifics on installing
conduit with a supplementary PVC coating applied at
the factory are contained in Section 6. Other
supplementary coatings are covered in Section 4.6.4.

17
4.6.4 Supplementary protection methods 4.7.2 Continuity of grounding path

Where supplementary corrosion protection is The NEC states that the path to ground in circuits,
required for the conduit or tubing, it shall be equipment and metal enclosures for conductors shall
provided by one of the following methods, and the be permanent and continuous. Complying with
authority having jurisdiction must pre-approve the guidelines in the Fittings section 4.3 and Support
method selected. section 4.4 is the major factor in maintaining
electrical continuity. Using fewer than the NEC
a) A factory-applied coating which is additional to required supports or failing to properly tighten joints
the primary coating for conduit or tubing. can cause discontinuity in a raceway system, which
would result in the failure to carry a ground fault.
b) Paints approved for the purpose; one example is Good installation workmanship is critical.
bitumastic paint. Paints shall be applied in two coats
unless specifically approved for one coat. The NEC further requires that the path to ground
have the capacity to safely conduct any fault current
c) Tape wraps approved for application. Wraps shall likely to be imposed and have sufficiently low
overlap and shall cover the entire surface of the impedance to limit the voltage to ground to cause
conduit and all associated fittings. operation of the circuit protective device. Steel RMC,
IMC and EMT are “conductors” permitted to carry
Coupings and fittings can be shrink-wrapped. current in the event of a ground fault. All three have
been tested and they all meet the Code requirements
4.7. Equipment Grounding Using Steel when properly designed and installed (see Annex B).
Conduit
4.7.3 Maximum length of raceway
4.7.1 Steel conduit as equipment grounding
conductor Equipment grounding conductors (which include
steel conduit) and the connectors must be properly
RMC, IMC and EMT are recognized by the NEC as sized. EMT connectors shall not be used with IMC or
equipment grounding conductors. Use of a RMC. The installed length of any wiring method can
supplemental equipment grounding conductor in the also impact safe operation of the overcurrent device.
form of a wire in addition to the raceway is a design In the event of a phase to neutral or phase to conduit
decision, except where the NEC requires it for ground fault, the length of the particular conduit run
redundancy in some special installations. Steel determines safe operation, assuming proper
conduit is the main equipment grounding conductor overcurrent protection has been provided. For a phase
regardless of whether a supplemental grounding to phase fault, it is the conductor length which
conductor is installed. In the event of a fault, the determines safe operation.
raceway will carry most of the current and therefore
must be continuous. For this reason, each raceway
must be installed securely and with tight joints to
provide mechanical and electrical continuity.

18
4.7.4 Clean threads 1. Use listed fittings.

Threads must be clean to insure electrical continuity 2.With RMC or IMC, use two locknuts one inside
of the assembled raceway system. Leave the thread and one outside of boxes and cabinets.
protectors on the conduit until ready to use. Wipe
field-cut threads with a clean cloth to remove excess 3. Use fittings, such as EMT connectors, with
oil and apply an electrically conductive rust resistant shoulders that seat firmly against the box or cabinet,
coating (see 4.1.3). with one locknut on the inside of boxes and cabinets.

4.7.5 Continuity of the raceway system (NOTE: Remove paint in locknut areas to assure a
continuous ground path. Repaint or cover any
The NEC does not permit certain circuits to be exposed area after installation is completed.)
grounded. However, steel raceways and all metal
parts likely to become energized must still have 4.7.7 Service raceway system bonding
assured continuity and be bonded together and run to
a grounding electrode to prevent electric shock. A service raceway system includes service equipment
enclosures, meter fittings, boxes, etc., and requires
4.7.6 Bonding special consideration for bonding the enclosures to
the raceways where the connection relies on locknuts
Bonding is used to provide electrical continuity so only. Service equipment must be connected with
that overcurrent devices will operate and shock threaded bosses and fittings such as locknuts,
hazards will not be present. This is the “finishing wedges, and bushings of the bonding type.
touch” for a metallic raceway system and close
attention is to be paid to detail. All fittings, lugs, etc., Standard locknuts are not to be used on circuits over
shall be securely made up. 250 volts to ground where the raceway is terminated
at concentric or eccentric knockouts. The raceway
Bonding around of steel raceway joints/couplings is must be bonded to the enclosure using the same
not necessary when EMT, IMC, and RMC are methods as noted above for service raceway systems;
properly made up as recommended in this installation or boxes and enclosures listed for bonding are to be
standard. A secure joint provides excellent low used.
impedance continuity. Bonding is not required
because this joint already meets the NEC definition 4.7.8 Additional bonding considerations
of bonding.
Expansion fittings and telescoping sections of metal
Metal raceways for feeder and branch circuits raceways shall be listed for grounding and based on
operating at less than 250 volts to ground shall be NEC® 250.98 shall be made electrically continuous
bonded to the box or cabinet. Do one or more of the by the use of equipment bonding jumpers.
following:

19
5. Specific Installation Requirements
5.1 General k) All conductors and neutrals of the same circuit and
all equipment grounding conductors shall be
(NOTE: All requirements in this section are in contained within the same raceway.
addition to those of the NEC.)
(NOTE: This is extremely important in alternating
a) All exposed raceways shall be run parallel or current (AC) applications.)
perpendicular to walls and ceilings.
l) The raceway system shall be installed complete,
b) A sufficient number of home run raceways shall be including tightening of joints, from termination point
installed so that excessive circuit loading will be to termination point prior to the installation of
eliminated. conductors.

c) If home runs are to be concealed by the finish of m) Cutting and threading shall comply with Section
the building (suspended ceilings excepted), the 4.1 or Section 6.3, as applicable.
minimum size of home run conduit and tubing shall
be trade size 3/4. n) Bending shall comply with Section 4.2.

d) The minimum size for raceways in industrial o) Supports shall comply with Section 4.4.
occupancies shall be trade size 3/4.
5.2 Protection Against EMI
(NOTE: Minimum size requirements in (c) and (d)
are to provide room for future expansion of circuits in For protection against EMI, steel conduit or steel
locations that are difficult to access.) tubing with steel fittings shall be used. Steel RMC
offers maximum shielding against EMI, due to its
e) Overhead service conductors shall be run in RMC, thicker wall. IMC and EMT also have excellent
IMC or EMT. EMT shall not be used for mast shielding capabilities. (See Annex B).
installations supporting the overhead drop.
5.3 Raceways Installed in Concrete
f) EMT shall not be used where damage severe
enough to damage the conductors within is likely to a) All conduit runs through concrete must be fully
occur. made up and secured to reinforcing rods to prevent
movement during the concrete pour.
g) Sufficient expansion fittings for the application
shall be installed (see 4.3.2). b) Conduit stubs installed in poured floors shall be
effectively closed immediately after installation.
h) An approved conductive coating is to be applied to Suggested means for closing are wrapping with a
all field-cut threads. In wet or damp environments it heavy grade of tape, installation of a capped bushing,
is desirable to also apply this coating to exposed or plugs designed for the purpose. Stubs shall remain
factory threads. closed during construction, or until the raceway is
extended to a termination point.
i) Do not use raceways to support enclosures except
as permitted by the NEC. (NOTE: This is to protect threads from damage and
to prevent debris from entering the conduit before or
j) Splices or taps shall not be made inside RMC, after the concrete pour.)
IMC, or EMT.
c) Refer to Section 4.6.2 for supplementary corrosion

20
protection requirements where steel raceways unbroken from outlet to outlet. When the stub-in
transition from concrete to earth. method is used, a connector, bushing, or other fitting
shall be installed at the end of the raceway to protect
d) Conduit shall be supported to prevent damage the cable. Pull wires are to be installed in all such
prior to and during the concrete pour.When raceways and provisions are to be made to prevent
nonmetallic conduits are used in or under floor slabs debris from entering the conduit.
or concrete pours, change to steel conduit prior to
exiting the floor or slab.Where completion of the d) Limit the number of bends to two 90 degree
raceway system will be delayed, mark the stub in bends. See Section 4.2.1 (c).
some manner to indicate a supplemental equipment
grounding conductor is needed because the entire run 5.5 Underground Services
is not metal, and therefore not electrically
continuous. a) It is recommended that IMC or RMC be used to
bring underground service conductors out of the
(NOTE: This is necessary to assure that a change in ground to the meter or disconnect.
installer does not result in thinking the entire run is
metal and, therefore, that no supplemental equipment b) Where underground service raceways enter a
grounding conductor is necessary.) building, they shall be sealed.

e) See Section 4.3.2 for requirements regarding (NOTE: This is done to prohibit the entry of moisture
taping of joints in concrete. which might accumulate due to differences in
outdoor and indoor temperatures and to keep ground
5.4 Communication Circuits water and rodents, etc. from entering the building.)

a) Raceways for low voltage or communications 5.6 Verification of Installation

circuits shall terminate in boxes, enclosures, or
wireways, except as permitted in Section 5.3(c). All metal raceway systems shall be electrically
continuous, and shall be tested after conductor
b) If vacant raceways are installed for future use, pull installation to assure continuity. Simple continuity
wires shall be provided and the raceways shall be tests are permitted, but shall be made between the
plugged. service panel and the last outlet in each branch
circuit.
c) Stub raceways for communications circuits are
permitted in a suspended ceiling space, basement
space or similar area, rather than running the raceway

21
6. Installation Practices for PVC–Coated
Conduit and Fittings
There are three types of PVC-coated conduit; modified for installing PVC-coated conduit.
couplings are supplied separately. Standard tools which have not been modified could
damage the coatings and shall not be used to install
1. Primary PVC coating over bare steel which is a PVC-coated conduit. For repairing damage to the
listed rigid conduit for environmentally suitable PVC coating see Section 6.6.
locations.
6.2 Clamping (Vising) PVC-Coated Conduit
2. A PVC coating over listed galvanized steel
conduit. This is a supplementary coating intended for Various manufacturers offer modified jaws for use in
added protection in severely corrosive locations. standard vises to protect the coating (see Figure 14).
When using either a “jaw type” or a chain type”
3. A primary PVC coating over a supplementary vise, the PVC-coated conduit can also be protected
coating of zinc. This is also intended for severely by half-shell clamps. These are available as a
corrosive locations. manufactured clamp or can be made in the field from
RMC as follows.
These PVC-coated raceways are generally installed
as a system, which means the fittings, conduit bodies,
straps, hangers, boxes, etc., are also coated. There
are, however, installations where only a coated elbow
is used in a galvanized conduit run, such as where
emerging from the soil or concrete.

(NOTE: Manufacturers’ instructions are very

important when installing PVC-coated products and
systems, and special tools are generally required.)

6.1 Tools

To minimize installation damage to the PVC

coatings, use tools specially designed for PVC-coated Figure 15: Field-fabricated half shell clamps used with
conduit or standard tools that have been appropriately chain vise to protect PVC-Coated conduit.
(Courtesy of Thomas & Betts)

Figure 16: Utility knife used to apply "pencil-cuts" to

Figure 14: Commercial yoke vise used to protect the PVC PVC coating to allow the conduit easier entrance into the
coating of PVC-coated conduit. (Courtesy of Thomas & Betts) cutting die. (Courtesy of Thomas & Betts)

22
6.2.1 Clamping sleeves made from RMC
a) Make two half-shell pieces by first cutting two 6-
inch pieces of standard conduit one trade size larger
than the PVC-coated conduit to be clamped.

b) Use a band saw to cut the 6-inch conduit sections

lengthwise. Make the cut slightly off center. This
creates two half shells, one smaller than the other.

c) Discard the larger pieces and use the two smaller

pieces to protect the conduit in the vise. Deburr any
sharp edges. Properly made clamping sleeves will
Figure 17: Before threading PVC-coated conduit , make a
have a gap between the two pieces when positioned series of cuts along the axis of the conduit to break-up
on the conduit (see Figure 15). threading chip. (Courtesy of Thomas & Betts)

d) Where proper tooling for making a sleeve is not

available, protect the PVC coating in the vise by
wrapping the area to be clamped with sandpaper,
emery cloth or cardboard. The coarse side of emery
cloth or sandpaper should face the PVC coating.

(NOTE: This is the least desirable method and should

be avoided by planning ahead.

6.3 Cutting and Threading PVC-Coated Conduit

For full cutting and threading instructions for PVC

coated conduit, contact the conduit manufacturer. The
Figure 18: Using a reamer to remove rough edges of cut
following provides general guidance.
PVC-coated conduit. (Courtesy of Thomas & Betts)
6.3.1 Cutting and reaming

Cutting with a saw is the preferred method. However,

a roller cutter is acceptable providing the conduit is
properly clamped. See Section 4.1 for conduit cutting
and threading guidelines.

6.3.2 Hand threaders (manual and motorized)

a) If PVC-coated conduit is cut with a hacksaw or a

band saw, and a hand-threader is used, trim the coating
at an angle all the way around the conduit before
threading. This is sometimes called pencil cut or bevel
cut and enables the die teeth on the threader to engage
the conduit (see Figure 16). Be sure to follow the
instructions in 6.2.1 for clamping conduit, and ensure Figure 19: Bender with special shoes required for bending
that the conduit is securely held in the vise. PVC-coated conduit. (Courtesy of Thomas & Betts)

23
b) A standard die head must be modified (machined) approved electrically-conductive, corrosion-
for use with PVC-coated conduit. To make this resistant compound (see Figure 20). Coatings
modification, the guide sleeve must be bored to allow for this purpose, listed under UL category “FOIZ”
the coated conduit to enter the die. The inside are available. Zinc-rich paint or other coatings
diameter must be increased by 110 mils (0.11 inch). acceptable to the AHJ may be used. (NOTE:
Corrosion protection is provided on factory-cut
(NOTE: The PVC coating shall not be removed to threads at time of manufacturing.)
allow use of standard non-machined die heads.)
6.4 Bending PVC- Coated Conduit
6.3.3 Rotating machines
Manufactured elbows are available in a variety of
a) Rotating machines with jaws that cut through the radii. For field-bending, do the following:
PVC coating shall not be used.
6.4.1 Hand bending of small conduit sizes
b) Long strips of metal or PVC from the threading
can foul the die head and collapse the conduit. To To bend PVC-coated conduit, use an EMT bender
avoid this and permit removal of PVC in small one trade size larger than the conduit being bent. This
pieces, make a series of longitudinal cuts in the PVC is to avoid damaging the coating. For example, to
coating (i.e., along the conduit) in the area to be bend trade size 3/4 PVC-coated conduit, use a trade
threaded. The thread protector can be used as a size 1 EMT bender.
length guide for the cuts (see Figure 17).
6.4.2 Bending coated conduit
c) Following the cutting operation, use a reamer to
remove rough edges (see Figure 18). a) A bender with shoes made specifically to bend
PVC-coated conduit is preferred. Otherwise, for
6.3.4 Thread protection trade sizes 1/2 through 1-1/2, use an electric bender
(see Figure 19). with EMT shoes one size larger than
The NEC requires in 300.6 that where corrosion the PVC-coated conduit. A hand bender can also
protection is necessary and the conduit is threaded be used to bend the smaller trade sizes.
in the field, the thread shall be coated with an
b) Trade sizes 2 and larger should be bent with a
hydraulic bender.

c) Do not use lubricants on bending shoes.

6.4.3 Hydraulic benders

a) Most manufacturers of hydraulic benders offer

special shoes for PVC-coated conduit. Use these
special shoes when possible.

b) If regular shoes are used, their sides must be

modified to allow for the coating thickness. Some
installers have done this by grinding or milling. Such
Figure 20: Application of UL listed electrically conductive modification is not recommended as it can create a
corrosion protection compound on field-cut threads. safety hazard.
(Courtesy of Thomas & Betts)

24
6.5 Installing PVC-Coated Conduit 6.5.3 Threadless fittings

6.5.1 Pipe wrenches and pliers Threadless fittings shall not be used with PVC-coated
RMC or IMC.
PVC-coated conduit requires special wrenches to
protect the coating. Pipe wrenches specially designed 6.5.4 Engagement of threads
with fine teeth are available for use with PVC-coated
conduit. Strap wrenches can also be used. Slip-joint Since the threads are not visible because they are
pliers of the Channel-Lock™ type, specially covered by PVC sleeves, take extra care to be sure
equipped with wide jaws, are also available to protect that the threads are fully engaged and made up
the coating. wrenchtight.

(NOTE: For PVC-coated conduit, wrench sizes are 6.6 Patching Damaged Areas
the same. However, the jaw of the wrench must be
specially designed for PVC-coated conduit. If not Even when following recommended practices, the
available, a strap wrench should be used.) PVC coating is sometimes damaged during
installation. This destroys the coating protection and
Do not use ordinary slip-joint pliers or standard pipe provides for entry of corrosive elements. Damaged
wrenches with PVC-coated conduit. areas shall be patched, following the raceway
manufacturers’ instructions.
6.5.2 Sleeves on couplings and fittings
6.7 Equipment Grounding and Bonding
a) Sleeves on PVC-coated conduit couplings and
fittings are provided to insure continuous coating General considerations for equipment grounding
protection. Protection is added because the coating is using steel conduit are covered in Section 4.7. When
separate, not continuous, between a section and expansion joints are used in PVC-coated conduit
fitting. This provides protection and makes the systems, it is recommended that an external bonding
coating more resistant to corrosion penetration, but jumper be used. Generally, this will require removing
the coating is not continuous. a portion of the PVC coating from the conduit where
the jumper will be attached, installing the jumper,
b) To make the sleeve softer in cold weather then repairing the surrounding coating with touch up
applications, soak the coupling or fitting in warm compound provided by the manufacturer. Specific
water. instructions from the PVC-coated conduit
manufacturer should be followed for proper
c) To make installation easier, silicon sprays can be installation.
applied to the inside diameter of the sleeve.

25
ANNEX A: Threading Conduit
Threading as a method of joining steel conduit has fusing or welding to the cutting edges. If a problem
proven to be a sound and dependable method through persists with the threads that are being cut, carefully
decades of service. Some major advantages of look at the threads. If the leading flank of a thread is
threaded joints are: deformed, it probably is caused by something
different than if the receding flank is deformed. If
1. Simple hand tools can be used to dismantle and only the first few threads are deformed, the problem
replace sections of existing conduit systems. is different than if the deformation exists over the full
2. Conduit can be threaded in the shop or on the job. length.

3. It is a safe method to use for installations in A.2 Some Causes of Common Threading
hazardous locations. Problems
4. When properly cut and made up, a threaded joint
TORN THREADS:
retains the maximum wall strength by minimizing the
number of threads outside the coupling or fitting. (1) Improper cutting fluid
(2) Poor cutting fluid flow
Successful threading requires close attention to all of (3) Dies are not ground for material being cut
the details. The threading operation is simple, yet (4) Dies are worn
precision is the key. The correct dies must be selected (5) Speed is too fast
for the conduit being threaded and the dies must be (6) Material is too hard
sharp. A proper cutting lubricant must be used. Both
manual and power driven threading equipment are WAVY THREADS:
(1) Dies are not ground for material being cut
available. In general, the nominal length of thread has
(2) Dies are too tight in the die head
been cut when the front surfaces of the thread chasers (3) Not enough bearing.
are flush with the end of the conduit. For all conduit
sizes, the threads are cut at an angle of 60 degree (the DIES CHIPPING ON TEETH:
angle included between the thread flanks). The thread (1) Improper cutting fluid
tapers 1 in 16 or 3/4 inch per foot on diameter. (2) The material is too hard
(3) Poor cutting fluid flow
A.1 Changing Dies (4) Speed is too fast.

METAL FUSING TO DIES:

The necessary procedures for changing threading
(1) Improper cutting fluid
dies are dependent on the specific threader being (2) Poor cutting fluid flow
used. To provide good workmanship, be sure to refer (3) Speed is too fast
to the manufacturer’s instructions. (4) Dies are dull.

Make certain that the machine and die head are DIES WEAR OUT QUICKLY:
clean. If chips are allowed to accumulate in the (1) Improper cutting fluid
machine components, problems will result. (2) Speed is too fast.

Occasionally disassemble the die head and remove SQUEALING DURING CUTTING:
(1) Improper cutting fluid
any accumulation of foreign material. This practice (2) Poor cutting fluid flow.
will increase the life of the die head and promote
better threads. When cutting threads, occasionally RAGGED OR CHATTERED THREADS:
check the condition of the dies. Make certain the dies (1) Dies are getting worn out and are dull.
are not getting dull and that conduit material is not

26
ANNEX B: Grounding and EMI
Steel conduit and tubing have been proven to be This research on grounding and additional research
excellent equipment grounding conductors, safely on EMI provided the data for a software analysis
providing a low impedance path in the event of a program (for the WINDOWS operating system)
ground fault on the system. Steel conduit and tubing called GEMI, Grounding and ElectroMagnetic
have also been proven to be very effective in Interference.
reducing electro-magnetic interference at power
frequencies. Magnetic field reduction in steel The GEMI® program allows the user to quickly
conduit incased power systems is on the order of 70 calculate and size equipment grounding conductors
to 95 percent. and determine a safe run length to comply with the
National Electrical Code® using steel rigid metal
Computer Model Developed conduit (RMC), intermediate metal conduit (IMC),
electrical metallic tubing (EMT), copper or
For the past forty years, the following excellent aluminum conductors.
publications have served as key industry resources
for information on grounding: It also allows the user to calculate the EMF density
of a network design for conduit enclosed circuits.
• R.H. “Dick” Kaufman (General Electric), GER
957A “Some Fundamentals of Equipment GEMI software is available from the Steel Tube
Grounding Circuit Design”, IE 1058.33 November Institute of North America (STINA) or it can be
1954, Applications and Industry Vol. 73, Part ll downloaded from the STINA Conduit Committee
web site:www.steelconduit.org.
• J. Philip Simmons, “IAEI Soares Book on
Grounding”

• Eustace C. Soares (Pringle Switch), “Grounding

Electrical Distribution Systems for Safety”

In the early 1990’s, the members of the Steel Conduit

and Tubing Section of the National Electrical
Manufacturers Association (NEMA) provided
funding to the Georgia Institute of Technology,
School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, to
develop a computer model on grounding. The model
was validated by field tests consisting of arc voltage
testing and fault current testing on thirteen 256-foot
runs of RMC, IMC, and EMT, installed with a
variety of couplings. Results of the research,
conducted by Dr. A. P. Sakis Meliopoulos, P.E. and
Dr. Elias N. Glytsis, P.E., were published in May
1994 as “Modeling and Testing of Steel EMT, IMC,
and Rigid (GRC) Conduit, Part 1.”

27
ANNEX C: Reference Standards
This publication, when used in conjunction with the
National Electrical Code and steel conduit
manufacturers’ literature, provides sufficient
information to install steel conduit. The following
publications may also provide useful information:

National Fire Protection Association

One Batterymarch Park
P.O. Box 9101
Quincy, MA 02269-9101
(617) 770-3000 tel
(617) 770-3500 fax
www.nfpa.org

NFPA 70, National Electrical Code (ANSI)

National Electrical Manufacturers Association

1300 North 17th Street, Suite 1847
Rosslyn, VA 22209
(703) 841-3200 tel
(703) 841-3300 fax
www.nema.org

NEMA FB 1 Fittings, Cast Metal Boxes, and

Conduit Bodies for Conduit and Cable Assemblies

NEMA FB 2.10 Selection and Installation

Guidelines for Fittings for use with Non-Flexible
Metallic Conduit or Tubing

Steel Tube Institute of North America

2000 Ponce de Leon Suite 600
Coral Gables, FL 33134
(305) 421-6326 tel
(305) 443-1603 fax
www. steelconduit.org

Modeling and Evaluation of Conduit Systems for

Harmonics and Electromagnetic Fields

Modeling and Testing of Steel EMT, IMC, and Rigid

(GRC) Conduit

GEMI (Grounding and ElectroMagnetic Interference)

Analysis Software

28
Steel Conduit Producers
Allied Tube & Conduit Thomas & Betts Western Tube and
16100 S. Lathrop Avenue Ocal Conduit Company
Harvey, IL 60426 8155 T & B Boulevard P.O. Box 2720
Telephone: (708) 339-1610 Memphis, TN 38125 Long Beach, CA 90801-2720
Fax: (708) 225-2066 Telephone: (901) 252-5000 Telephone: (310) 537-6300
Fax: (901) 252-1333 Fax: (310) 604-9785
Republic Conduit/
Shamrock, Inc.
Maverick Tube Corp. Wheatland Tube Company
265 South Chestnut Street
16401 Swingley Ridge Rd. P.O. Box 600
Barnesville, OH 43713
Suite 700, Chesterfield, MO 63017 Collingswood, NJ 08108-92600
Telephone: (740) 425-1918
Telephone: (800) 325-1777 Telephone: (856) 854-5400
Fax: (740) 425-4017
Fax: (636) 733-1677 Fax: (856) 858-5578

Picoma Industries
330 East Ninth Street
Waynesboro, PA 17268
Telephone: (800) 742-6621
Fax: (717) 762-0948

2000 Ponce de Leon, Suite 600, Coral Gables, FL 33134 • Tel: (305) 421-6326
E-mail: [email protected] • Website: http://www.steeltubeinstitute.org
Steel Conduit Website: http://www.steelconduit.org
Form No. SCIG-0804