110.3(b) question

[Sthome25]

Hey guys,

This question is in regards to the coupling being used as a spacer for the minerlac. It is my opinion that 110.3(b) says that a coupling can only be used to connect two pieces of approved conduit together, and therefore, using it as a spacer is a code violation. I was met with overwheliming response that I am wrong and that AHJ can approve this installation. Can you guys clarify this for me? Am I wrong?

 

[jaggedben]

I think the argument would be the couplings are not used as couplings. The installer could have used some scrap metal instead. It's a stretch to say that if something is trash it cannot be trash because of its listing.

 

[jaggedben]

Also 110.3(B) specifically refers to equipment, which a coupling is not.

 

[retirede]

Nothing to do with NEC, but if that were my house, I’d complain about how the meter base is mounted.

 

[infinity]

If it's not being used to couple two pieces of raceway together then there is no issue. We could argue all day about that installation being pretty ugly.

 

[readydave8]

Surprised that response merely overwhelming, I'd have expected more dramatic

That vinyl mounting plate mounted on surface of siding

 

[ActionDave]

There is nothing wrong with using a piece of metal for a spacer. If that metal happens to be a coupling so what.

That connection at the top of the meter is something that might need closer scrutiny.

 

[tom baker]

I would of used a piece of pvc conduit for a spacer washer

 

[Hv&Lv]

Surprised that response merely overwhelming, I'd have expected more dramatic

That vinyl mounting plate mounted on surface of siding

Agreed. I think it would have looked better to throw the mounting plate away and just mount it directly to the siding.
Personally I would have complained about that rather then the spacers. The mounting plate is used incorrectly.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

Isn't that backing for the meter designed for those mounting areas to be behind the siding?

 

[infinity]

Isn't that backing for the meter designed for those mounting areas to be behind the siding?

It is but the back flange is removable so you cut the siding and install it. From Arlington: "Break off flanges for retrofit work."

 

[Dennis Alwon]

I really don't see the need to have the panel set on a flat piece as shown. When you span a bunch of horizontal boards the panel is pretty plumb so why bother.

 

[LarryFine]

It is my opinion that 110.3(b) says that a coupling can only be used to connect two pieces of approved conduit together, and therefore, using it as a spacer is a code violation.

Methinks it would be more accurate to say that only a coupling may be used to join two sections of conduit.

It would be difficult to find a rule that actually says that fittings and the like may not be used for any other purpose.

 

[Dsg319]

In my personal opinion, citing this as a violation is just a waste of time. It may be an eye soar but it’s serving a purpose.

I know we all have different opinions and feel differently about certain things.

My biggest thing in being code complaint is safety. There are many situations out there where in the terms of the NEC it is a violation but in terms of safety is fine. Like this for example.

 

[Fred B]

As far as what is being used as spacers behind the clamps i would think a more aesthetically please option might be available.

The mounting plate as installed just looks to be a hack job.

I question though the clamping device, i don't think it is listed for PVC.

 

[Little Bill]

I use a piece of PVC, usually 1/2", (that's about the only thing 1/2" PVC is good for) for a spacer. I have never used a spacer behind a minerlac/cowboy. I usually need them for a 1-hole strap. I won't waste a coupling unless it's all I have. Most times I need it either shorter or longer than a coupling. You can cut the PVC to size.

I agree with the mounting plate being used wrong. It's supposed to be put on before the siding goes up, that's what the slotted flanges are for. And as was mentioned, for retrofit, break off the flanges and slide it behind. Personally, I would omit the siding plate/block and mount straight to the siding.

 

[texie]

It is but the back flange is removable so you cut the siding and install it. From Arlington: "Break off flanges for retrofit work."

I agree, but my question is why did the installer use it all if he didn't cut the siding. Obviously this was not intended to be installed on top of the siding.

 

[don_resqcapt19]

I see not code issue with using a conduit coupling as a mechanical space. It is the same when I use a length of EMT with back to back caddy clamps as a trapeze support for runs of EMT. It is not EMT at that point...just a metal tube used as a support system.

 

[Sthome25]

Well guys based off your responses I guess I am wrong. Its not the first time and it surely will not be the last. Thank you for all the input.

To clarify this picture came from an "electrical wall of shame" groups.

 

[ActionDave]

As far as what is being used as spacers behind the clamps i would think a more aesthetically please option might be available....

Sure, but would that more aesthetically pleasing option be on hand and available in your van, or does it involve a seventy to ninety minute round trip drive to come up with an option that may or may not actually do the job.