ASTM 53 for underground RMC

[peterlarsen.suntec]

In a pinch and I need some short pieces of RMC for a feeder in a shallow trench. I went to a home improvement store and had them thread some ASTM 53 pipe. This inspector knows his stuff. Will it fly? Why?

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[drktmplr12]

I'm going to say it would be a violation because it wasn't designed to be used to physical protection and routing of conductors and isn't listed.

NEC 2011 344.2

344.2 Definition.​

Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC). A threadable raceway of​

circular cross section designed for the physical protection​

and routing of conductors and cables and for use as an​

equipment grounding conductor when installed with its integral​

or associated coupling and appropriate fittings. RMC​

is generally made of steel (ferrous) with protective coatings​

or aluminum (nonferrous). Special use types are red brass​

and stainless steel.​

344.6 Listing Requirements. RMC, factory elbows and​

couplings, and associated fittings shall be listed.​

From American Piping Products:

ASTM A53 pipe (also referred to as ASME SA53 pipe) is intended for mechanical and pressure applications and is also acceptable for ordinary uses in steam, water, gas and air lines. It is suitable for welding and for forming operations involving coiling, bending, and flanging, subject to certain qualifications.

 

[GoldDigger]

Among other things, fluid transport operations do not require the inside of the pipe to be smooth (mitigating scuffing or penetration of wire and high pulling force.)
Think of internal weld seams, for example.