This article was posted 12/08/2008 and is most likely outdated.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 still remember (1970's) when set screw fittings, die cast or steel, were understood for indoor use and compression fittings were for outdoor use. We used to say "set screw or raintight fittings". Egineers require compression fittings in almost all specifications, so the term raintight is no longer used. Nevertheless, the installer is the one who makes sure the fitting is tight, whether set screw or compression. I agree that steel fittings are stronger, but they can rust. I've noticed that our electricians complain a lot about how the compression fittings are easy to strip out and the constant loss of the interior compression rings take up time to find and/or replace. You can almost always find a screw to replace a missing set screw. My biggest complaint with using compression fittings is when the helper leaves out our can't find the interior compression ring, but still installs the fittings. No visual inspection will spot this.

    Michael

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