This article was posted 12/08/2008 and is most likely outdated.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
  • Using the 110.3(B) is a "cop out". You can use the stab-in connections on the back of switches and receptacles "according to (specs)", but that dioes not make it better, not even equal to, the quality obtained when wrapping a conductor around and tightening it with a screw.

    Using set screw connectors does not make it better, or even equal to, getting a pair of channel locks and locking a coupling or connector onto a piece of pipe.

    But if you really do want to look up the torque on a set screw connector, check the NEC - it will refer you to the White Book - that will refer you to the manufacturer, that will not even ask the tensile strength of the pipe you are using.

    Have you noticed that different manufacturer's steel have different hardnesses, even though they are with toleerance of the UL (but maybe not with in tolerance of an electric/hyrdaullic bender?

    Using set screw connectors on some piepe is like using aluminum instead of copper connectors - it will be tight when you finish, but will not stay that way ...

    Tom

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