splice in an LB

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daryl

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I am running 12-2 romex and 12 THHN going from pipe to romex. I have an 1/2 LB can I use that as a splice box, its accessible. I don't think I can but it would be a hell of a lot easier if I could. Usually I just put them both into a four square inside the house, but this instance it's very hard to do that.
 
Re: splice in an LB

Sure if the LB is large enough, the fill requirements of a conduit body are the same as a box.

I will assume you have 5 12 AWGs

2 Neutrals

2 Hots

1 Ground.

You need 11.25 sq in of volume, just a guess that would be at least an 1.25" LB.
 
Re: splice in an LB

Just as a starter answer, NO. I am sure someone else will provide more info.

You first and foremost need to know the Cubic Inches of the LB / Box. Then does the code allow splices in that size enclosure? Most device boxes have a UL Cubic Inch number stamped on them. In my experience with any LB's they are not big enough for splices.

This situation is more of a UL standard then it is NEC code.

Again, someone else will be able to provide more info.

Steve
 
Re: splice in an LB

theres just one circuit. One hot one neutral one ground. So actually theres two hots two neutrals and two ground wires in the pipe.
 
Re: splice in an LB

Originally posted by daryl:
theres just one circuit. One hot one neutral one ground. So actually theres two hots two neutrals and two ground wires in the pipe.
Click to expand...
You only have to count the ground once.

Here is the section that allows splices in a conduit body.

314.16(C)(2) With Splices, Taps, or Devices. Only those conduit bodies that are durably and legibly marked by the manufacturer with their volume shall be permitted to contain splices, taps, or devices. The maximum number of conductors shall be computed in accordance with 314.16(B). Conduit bodies shall be supported in a rigid and secure manner.
Click to expand...
 
Re: splice in an LB

Wat is a carlon wp box. The reason I put a 4 square inside(which I cant fit here)and an lb outside is because of appearance. A little lb is less noticeable than a bell or 4 square box.
 
Re: splice in an LB

You can even install a receptacle in a condulet.

condulet_recpt_1.JPG


I didn't have an LB available, so I used a T

Roger
 
Re: splice in an LB

So your sayin as long as my pvc LB has 11.25 than I can splice in there huh?
 
Re: splice in an LB

Caution: Oversizing the condulet prevents you from supporting it with the conduit; Section 314.23(E)exception. The size of the condulet is calculated by Section 314.16(C)(2) and that sends you to Table 314.16(B).

You can not use the 1/2" LB for this many conductors. By the Crouse Hinds calculation the 1/2" LB contains 4.25 cubic inches and you need a minimum of 5 x 2.25 = 11.25 cubic inches.

The better fix is using a box. As long as it is less than 100 cubic inches, it can be supported by the conduit. 314.23(E)
 
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