Conduit Bodies 101: Types, Applications, and Selection Tips
~6 min read • ~1,050–1,200 words • Flesch ~60
Updated August 12 2025
Why this guide exists
On a jobsite, details matter. Skip over something like the right conduit body, and you could be setting yourself up for extra labor, callbacks, or inspection delays. This guide breaks down conduit body fundamentals, types, applications, and selection tips so you can get it right the first time.
Key definitions / jobsite fundamentals
A conduit body is a listed fitting used in a raceway system to:
Provide access points for pulling conductors
(Sometimes) contain splices/taps/devices — but only when the body is durably volume‑marked and box‑fill limits are met per NEC 314.16(C)(2)
Change direction of conduit runs
Create an entry point for inspections or maintenance
They’re essential for keeping wiring accessible and in compliance with NEC Article 314, which governs boxes, conduit bodies, fittings, and handhole enclosures.
What’s at stake
| Risk / Issue | Impact if Ignored |
|---|---|
| Wrong body type | Improper conductor access, rework |
| Incorrect sizing | Code violations, failed inspections |
| Poor sealing | Moisture ingress, conductor damage |
| Cheap or unlisted parts | Reduced lifespan, liability issues |
Common types of conduit bodies
Different body types serve specific purposes. Selecting the right one means fewer headaches later.
LB conduit body – For 90° bends with back (rear) access; ideal where pulling conductors is tricky.
LL and LR conduit bodies – Left‑hand or right‑hand 90° bends to navigate around obstacles.
T conduit body – Three‑direction branching from a straight run.
C conduit body – Straight‑through with mid‑point access; great for long pulls.
E conduit body – Single‑hub, end‑access body (not a branching fitting). See examples in manufacturer listings such as Crouse‑Hinds Type E.
X conduit body – Four‑way “cross” for complex branching; used selectively in layouts that need four directions. See Carlon Type X.
For a quick shapes refresher, see the general Condulet overview.
Applications
Conduit bodies appear in every sector:
Commercial – Streamlined wire access in office and retail fit‑outs
Industrial – Durable access points in production floors and plants
Residential – Neat, code‑compliant solutions in service upgrades or remodels
For jobs that demand durable components, see Revco’s Conduit Bodies & Covers and Fittings.
How to select the right conduit body
When selecting, factor in:
1) Conduit type and size
Match the trade size and material—PVC, EMT (NEC 358), or Rigid Metal Conduit (NEC 344). Use only bodies listed for that raceway type.
2) Configuration needs
Choose LB, LL, LR, C, T, E or X based on bend direction and pull points. Where conductors are 4 AWG and larger, minimum pulling dimensions apply per NEC 314.28 (see 314.16 notes that point to 314.28). For smaller conductors, follow 314.16 and only splice when the body is volume‑marked.
3) Environmental conditions
Outdoor runs or corrosive environments call for bodies listed for damp/wet locations per NEC 314.15. Use gasketed covers and consider corrosion‑resistant options (e.g., aluminum, PVC‑coated rigid, stainless hardware). Where drainage is needed, the Code permits approved field‑installed drain openings 1/8–1/4 in. in boxes or conduit bodies listed for wet/damp locations; larger openings are permitted only for listed drain fittings per manufacturer instructions. See NEMA Bulletin on drain openings.
Installation / commissioning tips
Plan ahead – Lay out the raceway and mark body locations before bending or threading so access covers won’t be obstructed.
Use proper sealing – In wet locations, use gasketed covers and fittings listed for the environment. Listing/marking—not gaskets alone—establishes wet‑location suitability per 314.15.
Accessibility – Install so covers can be removed without dismantling finish surfaces. See 314.29 accessibility. Underground boxes/handholes must be accessible without excavation of finished surfaces; a limited exception allows certain listed boxes covered by gravel/light aggregate with documented location per 314.29(B).
Support correctly – Follow raceway support rules for EMT, RMC, and PVC. For example, EMT must be fastened within 3 ft of terminations and at intervals not exceeding 10 ft per 358.30. Certain enclosures (including conduit bodies) may be raceway‑supported only under the detailed conditions in 314.23(E)/(F).
Mind the bend limit – Do not exceed 360° total bends between pull points (e.g., boxes or conduit bodies) per 358.26. Add another body or pull box if needed.
Troubleshooting / common pitfalls
Wrong orientation – Installing an LB backwards makes pulling almost impossible. Dry‑fit before final tightening.
No drainage in outdoor enclosures – In wet locations, use listed drain fittings or field‑drill only the approved 1/8–1/4 in. opening—and only in enclosures listed for wet/damp locations per 314.15 and NEMA guidance.
Overfilled body – Respect box‑fill and marked volume when splicing per 314.16(B) and (C)(2). If not volume‑marked, don’t splice inside.
Mixed fittings – Don’t combine PVC raceway with metallic‑only conduit bodies unless specifically listed for both.
Using the wrong body for branching – A Type E is a single‑hub end body; for four‑way branching, use a Type X or a junction/pull box.
Short‑radius elbows – Capped/handy/service‑entrance elbows are for pulling only and typically cannot contain splices; see discussion in IAEI on conduit bodies.
FAQ (contractor‑style)
1) Are all conduit bodies rated for wet locations?
No. Look for a wet‑location listing/marking, and use gasketed covers and compatible fittings in exterior or damp settings per 314.15.
2) Can I drill my own drain holes?
Only if the enclosure is listed for damp/wet locations and the opening is 1/8–1/4 in. at the bottom or a designated drain location. Larger openings require a listed drain fitting and following the manufacturer’s instructions. See NEMA drain bulletin.
3) Do I need a cover on every conduit body?
Yes. Covers are required to maintain listing and protect conductors per NEC Article 314. Install so the cover remains accessible per 314.29.
4) Can conduit bodies be buried?
Standard L‑, T‑, C‑, E‑, or X‑bodies are not typically used as underground splice boxes and must remain accessible after installation. Use listed handhole/underground boxes where needed and follow 314.29(B).
5) What’s the max number of bends between conduit bodies or pull points?
No more than 360° total between pull points per 358.26 (EMT), with similar rules in other raceway articles.
6) Can I support a conduit body on raceways?
Sometimes. There are detailed conditions and size limits in 314.23(E) and (F). Otherwise, provide independent support.
Code & compliance quick hits
Procurement checklist
Match conduit body trade size to raceway
Verify listing for raceway material and environment (damp/wet, corrosive)
Include gasketed covers (and spare gaskets) for wet/damp locations
Confirm accessibility per 314.29
Stock proper drain fittings if needed per 314.15
Key takeaways
Conduit bodies improve system accessibility, safety, and compliance
Select by raceway type, configuration, and environmental needs
Splice only in volume‑marked bodies and apply box‑fill math
Install with sealing, accessibility, and support in mind
Follow NEC rules for spacing, bends, accessibility, and support
Need the right conduit body for your next job? Check out Revco’s Conduit Bodies & Covers or Fittings and get them delivered or ready for pickup.
About Revco Lighting & Electrical Supply
Since 1978, Revco Lighting & Electrical Supply has been helping professionals bring their projects to light—literally. As a go‑to source for lighting and electrical products across Long Island, NY and nearby areas, we specialize in supporting contractors, builders, and industry experts with practical solutions and dependable service. Whether it’s a complex commercial build or a simple residential upgrade, we’re here to make sure you have what you need, when you need it.
