WHAT ARE CONDUIT BODIES?
- A conduit body is a separate section of conduit tubing that provides easy access into the interior of an electrical raceway. It allows more space for electrical conductors to bend. Conduit bodies also add extra protection from weather and corrosion to your conductors.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CONDUIT BODIES?
- A conduit body is one of several ways you could fit conduits together. Through the conduit body, you can access the interior of the raceway to pull, inspect and maintain electrical wires. When you’re able to control your wires better, your system can function efficiently.
They can also help move the direction of the electricity of your wires or bend them in a certain direction. You can also use conduit bodies to splice your wires. Wire splicing involves combining two wires so they can carry more current.
The different types are all based on the shape of the conduit bodies. Each type of conduit body has an access, inlet and outlet. The location of the inlet and outlet in relation to the conduit body determines the body’s shape.
Cover and Gasket
National Electrical Code requires that conduit bodies have compatible covers, suitable for the conditions of use. Neoprene rubber gaskets help to seal out moisture and prevent corrosion.
LR Conduit Body
What is an LR conduit body? With an LR-shaped body, the inlet aligns with the access, and the outlet is on the right. They attach to IMC conduit bodies when the conduit requires a change of direction. LR conduit bodies are appropriate for both indoor and outdoor use.
LL Conduit Body
With an LL-shaped body, the inlet aligns with the access and the outlet is on the left. You can use this type of conduit body for a 90-degree bend in the conduit run. The conduit body contains two conduit hubs, with removable gaskets for easy access to the wires.
LB Conduit Body
With an LB-shaped body, the inlet aligns with the access and the outlet is on the back. SLBs (service L-shaped bodies) are like L-shaped bodies, but shorter. The inlets are flush with the access cover. Electricians use these conduit bodies where circuit pass from an exterior wall.
T-Shaped Conduit Body
With a T-shaped body, the inlet is in line with the access and outlets on the left and right side of the cover. The cover is removable for easy access to the conductors. You can use T-shaped conduit bodies both indoors and outdoors.
C-Shaped Conduit Body
With a C-shaped body, the inlet and the outlet are on the top and bottom of the access cover. These types of conduit bodies pull conductors in straight runs. With C-shaped bodies, conductors don’t make a turn between the inlet and the outlet. C-shaped conduits are appropriate for indoor and outdoor use. They are compatible with EMT wiring and are fire-resistant.
