This article was posted 12/08/2008 and is most likely outdated.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
  • Interesting comments above. I've had this discussion before, and most people feel strongly one way or the other. In most facilities, I've been allowing the electrician decide based on their preference for many years.

    The Air Force required compression fittings because they considered them superior in longevity & EMI protection.

    The only standards based reason for one fitting over the other that I'm aware of can be found in IEEE Standard 1100 "IEEE Recommended Practice for Powering and Grounding Electronic Equipment". This standard is concerned with the performance of electronic equipment and how the power system plays a part in that. Paragraph 8.4.8.2 (on EMT) "Sections of this conduit are typically joined by means of setscrew or compression-type connectors, which do not provide the same magnitude of grounding integrity as threaded conections. Accordingly, the shielding and grounding effectiveness is reduced. Recommended practice is to join sections of electrical metallic tubing with compression-type couplings. Set-screw-type couplings should be avoided. Connections to enclosures should be made up tight using compression-type connectors." In this instance, I believe the text is referring to high-frequency grounding paths and EMI concerns. In paragraph 8.4.8.5, "Conduit Fittings", there are several methods concerning bonding-type bushings, locknuts, etc. that are above and beyond the code minimum and above standard practice for most electricians. It all refers to high frequency EMI.

    Jeff Sobczyk PE

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