Conduit installation is a crucial aspect of electrical wiring, providing protection to wires and ensuring safety. This article delves into the various methods of securing conduit walls, drawing insights from reputable sources such as AerosUSA, Better Homes & Gardens, and Screwfix Community Forum.
Key Facts
- Attach straps: Before the conduit enters the conduit body or box, attach straps across the conduit. Use material-appropriate screws to affix the straps to the building and hold them in place. It is recommended to place a strap at least every 30 to 36 inches for support, especially for higher vertical runs.
- Anchor boxes: Anchor metal boxes to the wall using screws. For exposed wiring, use handy boxes with rounded edges and metal covers. An offset fitting allows the conduit to run tight up against the wall.
- Measure conduit: Once the boxes are installed, measure the conduit for cutting. It is best to hold a piece in place and mark it rather than using a tape measure. Remember that the conduit slides about an inch into each fitting.
- Cut conduit: Cut the conduit to fit using a hacksaw. Avoid using a tubing cutter as it can create sharp edges inside the conduit that could damage wire insulation. Remove any burrs inside and out with a conduit-reaming attachment on a screwdriver.
- Slide in conduit: Slide the conduit into a fitting and tighten the setscrew. Ensure the connection is tight, especially if you are not installing a ground wire as these connections are critical for grounding. Make sure the wires have ample room inside the conduit to slide through easily.
- Anchor conduit: Anchor the conduit with one or two-hole straps at least every 6 feet and within 2 feet of each box. The larger the conduit, the closer the straps need to be. Drive screws into joists or studs, not just drywall, for secure anchoring.
Bonus: How to Install a Pulling Elbow
If the conduit makes more than three turns before entering a box, install a pulling elbow. This should not be used as a splice point but rather as an access point when pulling wires through the conduit.
Attaching Straps
To secure the conduit effectively, straps should be attached across it before it enters the conduit body or box. Material-appropriate screws should be used to affix the straps to the building, ensuring a firm hold. For higher vertical runs, it is recommended to place a strap at least every 30 to 36 inches for optimal support.
Anchoring Boxes
Metal boxes should be anchored to the wall using screws. For exposed wiring, handy boxes with rounded edges and metal covers are recommended. An offset fitting allows the conduit to run tight up against the wall, providing a neat and organized appearance.
Measuring and Cutting Conduit
Once the boxes are installed, the conduit should be measured for cutting. It is advisable to hold a piece in place and mark it rather than relying solely on a tape measure. This ensures accurate measurements and minimizes wastage. When cutting the conduit, a hacksaw should be used instead of a tubing cutter to prevent sharp edges that could damage wire insulation. A conduit-reaming attachment on a screwdriver can be used to remove any burrs inside and out, ensuring a smooth surface for wire insertion.
Sliding in Conduit
The conduit should be slid into a fitting and the setscrew tightened securely. This connection is particularly crucial if a ground wire is not being installed, as these connections are essential for grounding. Ample room should be provided inside the conduit for the wires to slide through easily, preventing overcrowding and potential damage.
Anchoring Conduit
To ensure the conduit is securely anchored, one or two-hole straps should be used at least every 6 feet and within 2 feet of each box. The larger the conduit, the closer the straps should be placed. It is important to drive screws into joists or studs, rather than just drywall, to ensure a solid and reliable anchoring.
Installing a Pulling Elbow (Bonus)
In cases where the conduit makes more than three turns before entering a box, a pulling elbow should be installed. This serves as an access point for pulling wires through the conduit and should not be used as a splice point.
Conclusion
By following these comprehensive steps and adhering to the guidelines provided by reputable sources, conduit walls can be secured effectively, ensuring the safety and integrity of electrical wiring installations.
References
- AerosUSA. (2023). Installing Conduits Outdoors. https://aerosusa.com/installing-conduits-outdoors/
- Better Homes & Gardens. (2022). How to Install Conduit to Protect Wiring in Your Home. https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/electrical/how-to-install-metal-conduit/
- Screwfix Community Forum. (2005). Securing conduit. https://community.screwfix.com/threads/securing-conduit.31030/
FAQs
How do I attach straps to secure the conduit?
Before the conduit enters the conduit body or box, attach straps across it using material-appropriate screws. Place straps at least every 30 to 36 inches for support, especially for higher vertical runs.
How do I anchor metal boxes to the wall?
Use screws to anchor metal boxes to the wall. For exposed wiring, use handy boxes with rounded edges and metal covers. An offset fitting allows the conduit to run tight up against the wall.
How do I measure and cut the conduit accurately?
Hold a piece of conduit in place and mark it rather than relying solely on a tape measure. Use a hacksaw to cut the conduit, avoiding sharp edges that could damage wire insulation. Remove any burrs inside and out with a conduit-reaming attachment on a screwdriver.
How do I slide the conduit into the fitting?
Slide the conduit into a fitting and tighten the setscrew securely. Ensure ample room inside the conduit for the wires to slide through easily.
How do I anchor the conduit?
Use one or two-hole straps to anchor the conduit at least every 6 feet and within 2 feet of each box. Drive screws into joists or studs, not just drywall, for secure anchoring.
When should I install a pulling elbow?
Install a pulling elbow if the conduit makes more than three turns before entering a box. This serves as an access point for pulling wires through the conduit and should not be used as a splice point.
What safety precautions should I take when working with conduit?
Always follow local electrical codes and regulations. Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and a hard hat. Ensure the work area is well-ventilated and free from hazards.
What tools and materials do I need to secure conduit walls?
You will need conduit, straps, screws, a hacksaw, a conduit-reaming attachment, a screwdriver, a level, and a tape measure. Additionally, you may need a pulling elbow if necessary.