Wiktor Wise
Electrical conduit bending is a complex process that requires extensive practice to master. Before starting, it is essential to have the right tools, including a tape measure, a quality level, and a framing square. Marking the conduit accurately is crucial to ensure the desired bend is achieved. This involves determining the starting point, change in direction, and middle of the bend, and then verifying the marks before bending. Some common types of conduit bends include the L or Stub Up bend, the Back-to-Back bend, and the Offset bend, each requiring specific measurements and techniques. Additionally, there are mobile applications available that can assist in calculating and marking the conduit for bending.
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What You'll Learn
Use a pencil for exposed conduit
When marking electrical conduit for bending, it is important to use the right tools to avoid measuring and cutting mistakes. Exposed conduits are typically coated with paint to help them blend into their surroundings. Therefore, it is recommended to use a pencil when marking exposed conduits to avoid permanent marks that may bleed through the paint.
Before bending the conduit, it is essential to determine where you want the conduit to start and where it needs to change direction. This will help you identify the middle of the bend, which should be marked on the conduit. It is good practice to verify your marks by holding the conduit up to where you intend to install it and checking if the "change of direction" and "middle of the bend" marks align with the desired result.
To ensure accurate cuts and a level conduit, you will need a tape measure, a quality level, and a framing square. Your tape measure should be sturdy enough to extend at least 10 feet without support, especially when working in the air. A magnetic level will help keep the level against the conduit, even when working overhead. Additionally, 30-degree angle markings on the level will be beneficial for conduit bending.
For complex bends, there are apps available that can assist with calculations and provide guidance on marking your bender for various angles. These apps can be useful for remembering the markings for different bends and ensuring accuracy in your work.
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Use a permanent marker for covered conduit
When marking electrical conduit for bending, it is important to use the right tools to ensure accurate cuts and a level conduit. You will need a tape measure, a quality level, and a framing square. It is also important to measure each mark twice to avoid mistakes.
If the conduit is exposed, use a pencil to mark the measurements. For covered conduit, use a permanent marker. The marker should be placed on the conduit to indicate the middle of the bend. It is important to verify that the marks will make the correct bend by holding the conduit up to where it will be installed and checking that the "change of direction" and "middle of the bend" marks line up with the desired result.
To calculate where to place the first mark on the conduit for an offset bend, use the following formula: (Offset Distance) x (Shrink/Inch) = Total Shrink. Then, add the distance to the obstacle to get the first mark measurement. For a back-to-back conduit bend, measure the distance between the walls or joists where the bend will fit. Starting from the back of the bend, measure the distance and mark the conduit.
For a stub-up or "L" conduit bend, determine the overall free-end height desired and calculate the stub height by subtracting the stub adjustment from the free-end height. Mark the stub height from the "up" free end of the conduit. Place the conduit on the ground and attach the bender, lining up the start point symbol with the line. Apply pressure to the heel end of the bender until it reaches a 90-degree position.
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Measure each mark twice
Measuring each mark twice is a crucial step in the process of bending electrical conduit. This step ensures accuracy and helps to prevent costly mistakes. When marking conduit for bending, it is important to use the right tools to get precise measurements. A tape measure, for example, is essential for ensuring accurate cuts and a level conduit. It should be sturdy enough to extend without support for the length of the conduit being measured.
When measuring each mark, it is advisable to use a pencil, especially if the conduit will be exposed. This is because a permanent marker may bleed through any paint applied to the conduit. It is also important to note that the conduit bender must match the size of the EMT (Electric Metallic Tubing).
To measure each mark twice, first determine where the conduit secures inside a fitting, and then decide where the conduit needs to change direction. For instance, if a horizontal conduit needs to turn vertical 5 feet from its starting point, mark the conduit 5 feet from its starting point. This initial measurement should be made twice to ensure accuracy.
The next step is to mark the middle of the bend. If a 90-degree bend is required 5 feet from the conduit's starting point, the middle of the bend will be slightly less than 5 feet. This measurement should also be made twice to confirm its accuracy. By following the principle of "measure twice, bend once," you can ensure precision and avoid costly errors in your electrical conduit bending projects.
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Use a tubing bender
Using a tubing bender is one of the many ways to bend electrical conduits. Electricians use tubing benders to create the three basic bends: the 90° bend, the common offset, and the saddle.
Tubing benders come in various materials, sizes, and types. The most common sizes are 1/2", 3/4", and 1". Steel conduit benders are generally cheaper but weigh more, while aluminium benders are preferred as they are lighter. Electricians should choose a bender that is the correct size in relation to the diameter of the pipes used. For instance, EMT’s flexibility allows it to be bent easily with manual or electric benders, while RMC’s rigidity requires the added force of hydraulic or electric benders.
Tubing benders may also have markings on both sides indicating the degree of bend and the "multiplier" on the other. The markings are advantageous as they are used constantly in calculations. Some benders also come with a handle, which is nice but not necessary.
When bending electrical conduits, it is important to avoid common mistakes such as misplaced pressure. Avoid putting too much pressure too far from the bender or at the bent part of the conduit. It is also important to bend the conduit on a sturdy floor. Avoid using carpeted floors, as they can lead to conduit crushing.
To bend a 90° angle, measure from the end of the conduit to the wall. Place a mark on a new piece of conduit and work the bender onto the conduit. Line the arrow on the bender up with the mark, and place the bender and conduit on the floor. The toe of the bender must be pointed towards the end of the new conduit where the measurement was taken from.
Some other tricks include using a tubing bender with indicators and degree markers to make 30°, 60°, or 90° bends. When making off-set, back-to-back, stub-ups, or saddle bends, a bender with a degree scale and multiplier scale helps save you time and energy.
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Use a bender app
Using a bender app is a convenient way to mark electrical conduit for bending. There are several apps available, such as QuickBend and iBend, that offer precise calculations and measurements for conduit bending. These apps can be used by professionals and beginners alike and are designed to be intuitive and user-friendly.
Bender apps provide accurate measurements by taking into account various factors, such as the radius of the shoe and bender, conduit type, and size diameter. They also allow users to select different types of benders and choose the size of the shoe and conduit type within the app. This ensures that the measurements generated are specific to the user's tools and setup.
One of the advantages of using a bender app is the ability to visualize the bend before making any marks on the conduit. Apps like QuickBend allow users to input their bend specifications and see if a bend is possible before attempting it in real life. This helps prevent mistakes and saves time and effort.
Additionally, bender apps can provide detailed information on the centerline radius, deduct, gain, and setback. They may also offer documentation and tutorials for individual bends, making them a valuable resource for learning and improving conduit bending skills.
Some apps, like iBend, assist users in marking their benders to find center bends for any degree. This feature eliminates the need to start from a predetermined mark on the bender, such as an arrow, and simplifies complex bends like four-point saddles.
When using a bender app, it is important to pay attention to hand placement with the bender to prevent the pipe from rolling or slipping. It is also crucial to apply steady and gradual pressure when bending to avoid kinking the conduit.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a tape measure, a quality level, and a framing square. It is also recommended to have a pencil or permanent marker for marking measurements, and a magnetic spirit level with an adjustable bubble.
First, determine where you want the conduit to start and where it needs to change direction. Make a mark on the conduit at the point where it needs to change direction. Then, mark the middle of the bend. If you need a 90-degree bend, the middle of the bend will be somewhat less than the total distance.
First, calculate the stub height by using the free-end height and subtracting the stub adjustment from a Bender Take-Up Table. Then, mark the stub height from the "up" free end of the conduit. Place the conduit on the ground and attach the bender with the hook pointed toward the free end. Line up the start point symbol on the bender with the line you made.
Measure the distance between the objects where the bend will fit. For the first bend, follow the 90-degree Stub Up bend instructions above. Starting from the back of the bend, measure the distance and mark the conduit. Place the bender on the conduit, facing the free end opposite the original bend. Line up the mark with the start point symbol on the bender.
Yes, there are apps available that can help with remembering marks and orientations, as well as making calculations for complicated bends. Some examples are iBend and an app mentioned in an electricians forum.
