Conduit Fittings Guide: Types, Applications, and How to Choose

Updated: August 12, 2025

TL;DR
The right conduit fitting keeps your wiring safe, code-compliant, and on schedule. The wrong one costs you time, callbacks, and headaches.

1. What Are Conduit Fittings?

Conduit fittings are the parts that join, bend, or secure conduit and connect it to boxes or enclosures. Done right, they keep wiring protected and installations up to code—by using equipment strictly per its listing (NEC 110.3(B)) and installing complete raceways before pulling conductors (NEC 300.18(A)). Many metallic fittings fall under UL 514B (Conduit, Tubing, and Cable Fittings).

2. Common Types of Conduit Fittings

Couplings – Join two conduit runs into one continuous path; they must be listed for the wiring method (e.g., EMT per NEC 358.42, LFMC per NEC 350.42, PVC fittings per NEC 352.6/.40).

Connectors & Box Connectors – Secure conduit to an electrical box with a locknut, using set-screw or compression styles for EMT; in wet locations use fittings listed for wet locations (NEC 358.42 and 314.15). Example: listed raintight EMT compression connectors (Eaton/Crouse-Hinds).

Elbows – 45° and 90° options for clean directional changes; see manufacturer-listed EMT elbows (Eaton Crouse-Hinds EMT elbows).

Bushings & Locknuts – Bushings prevent wire abrasion and are required for protection where raceways contain 4 AWG and larger (NEC 300.4(G)); raceway articles (IMC 342.46, RMC [344.46], PVC [352.46]) require a bushing or equivalent protection unless the box/fitting provides it.

Straps & Hangers – Keep runs straight and supported. EMT must be fastened within 3 ft of each box and at intervals not exceeding 10 ft (NEC 358.30).

Conduit Bodies (LB, TB, C-type) – Provide wire-pull access or tight turns where sweeps won’t fit; splices only when the body is marked with a volume (NEC 314.16(C)(2)).

Flexible-Conduit Fittings – Purpose-built for FMC/LFMC/LFNC. Use only fittings listed for that method; angle (90°/45°) liquid-tight connectors can’t be concealed (NEC 350.42, 356.42). Manufacturer examples show squeeze, set-screw, duplex, and compression styles (Eaton FMC fittings overview).

3. Where They’re Used

Material choice should match environment (NEC 110.11, 300.6). Manufacturers publish wet-location “raintight” listings (e.g., Crouse-Hinds raintight EMT connectors).

Flexible fittings shine where tight bends or equipment movement require flexibility; see uses-permitted for FMC/LFMC (NEC 348.10/350.10).

4. How to Pick the Right Fitting

Match the material – Use fittings designed and listed for the specific raceway (NEC 300.15). When changing wiring methods, use listed transition fittings (UL 514B).

Think environment – In damp/wet/outdoor locations use fittings/boxes listed for wet locations (NEC 314.15); select materials with suitable corrosion resistance (NEC 300.6, 110.11).

Get the size right – Fitting trade size must match the conduit; follow product/listing data (UL 514B, manufacturer catalogs).

Follow NEC/local code – Verify with the NEC and your AHJ before ordering (start at NFPA’s overview of Article 300 and free code access links: NFPA).

Plan ahead – Minimize bends and joints; never exceed 360° of bends between pull points (NEC 358.26). Use properly sized pull/junction boxes when needed (NEC 314.28).

5. Pro-Level Install Tips

Prep ends – Deburr/ream cut ends so they don’t cut conductors (NEC 358.28).

Seal smart – In any wet location, use fittings and boxes listed for wet locations; “raintight” EMT/LFMC connectors and hubs include gaskets/seals (NEC 314.15; example raintight fittings: Eaton/Crouse-Hinds). Remember that raceways in wet locations are “wet” on the inside (NEC 300.5(B)/300.9).

Use the right torque – Make connectors/couplings “made up tight” (NEC 358.42) and follow the manufacturer’s instructions per listing (NEC 110.3(B)).

Lay it out – Fewer fittings mean faster pulls and fewer failure points; if you’re approaching bend limits, plan for a pull box sized per NEC 314.28.

Why It Matters

Cheap or wrong fittings mean failed inspections, downtime, and rework. The right fitting keeps you on code, on budget, and off the callback list.

About Revco

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.