The answer is no, and for good reason. According to electrical codes and standards, a conduit run should not exceed a total of 360 degrees, as it becomes difficult to pull or push conductors through a conduit with excessive twists and turns.
The reason behind this limitation lies in the practicality and feasibility of installation. As the number of turns in a conduit run increases, the friction and resistance encountered during the installation process also increase exponentially. This can lead to an assortment of issues, including damaged cables, strained conductors, and difficulty in future maintenance or upgrades.
Alternative Approaches to Conduit Routing
To address the need for flexibility and ease of installation, various alternative approaches can be employed when a conduit run requires more than 360 degrees. These include:
- Intermediate Pull Points: Instead of attempting a continuous conduit run with excessive twists and turns, intermediate pull points can be introduced. These additional pull points allow for shorter conduit sections, making it easier to route and pull cables during installation or maintenance.
- PVC Conduit Elbows and Fittings: PVC conduit elbows and fittings are available in various angles, ranging from 45 degrees to 90 degrees. Utilizing these fittings strategically can help achieve smoother conduit runs without exceeding the 360-degree limitation.
- Conduit Expansion Joints: In cases where the conduit run needs to exceed 360 degrees in a single stretch, the addition of conduit expansion joints can help mitigate the installation challenges. These joints allow for expansion, contraction, and flexibility, reducing the risk of damage or excessive strain on the electrical conductors.
A conduit run should not exceed 360 degrees between pull points due to practical limitations and safety concerns. It is vital to adhere to the guidelines and standards established by electrical codes to ensure the proper installation and functionality of the electrical system. By considering alternative approaches such as intermediate pull points, PVC conduit elbows and fittings, or conduit expansion joints, it is possible to achieve efficient and effective conduit routing while avoiding excessive twists and turns.