This article was posted 12/08/2008 and is most likely outdated.

Interesting Question from an Engineer
 

 

Subject - Interesting Question from an Engineer

December 8, 2008
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Interesting Question from an Engineer

Mike,

I’d like to ask your opinion on compression couplings versus set screw type. I work for an A & E firm and have been an electric power engineer for 48 years, and counting.  Our company standards call for compression couplings exclusively and have for as long as I know.

 

However, contractors who I respect for their experience and integrity (which is not all of them) state that set screw fittings are equal and in some ways better than compression.  And I think I agree, at least do not disagree, as I do not and never have regarded conduits as grounds. That being the case, I see little reason for compression couplings in most of our projects which are not in areas of high vibration, long vertical runs, long distanced between supports, conduit abuse, etc.

 

Your thoughts would be welcome.

 

Thanks, Kevin Cassidy

 

Mike Holt’s Response: Kevin, I never could figure out why compression fittings were part of specifications; to me SS fitting are equal to or better than compression fittings.
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Comments

  • I have been in the business of electrical engineering over 50 years. Recently I was employed as an expert witness in an electrocution case. Although not contributing to the fatality, many of the emt couplings had loose screws. Surveying most of the adjacent conduit found almost half of the screws were not tightened enough to provide a successful installation. The installation was in a warehouse constructed over ten years ago, and modified to a degree, perhaps leading to the loose conduit connection. Perhaps this is a good reason to avoid the set screw approach.

    Daniel J. Love, P.E.
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