How to Attach Metal Conduit to Cabinet

Attaching metal conduit to a cabinet is an important part of many electrical projects. Proper installation ensures a safe, secure connection for running wires through the conduit. With some basic tools and materials, you can attach metal conduit to a cabinet yourself.

Introduction

Metal conduit provides a protected pathway for electrical wiring between a cabinet and other devices or junction boxes. Conduit helps shield and organize the wires, preventing damage while maintaining access for maintenance and repairs. When attached properly, metal conduit fittings securely fasten the conduit to the cabinet, keeping everything aligned and the connection intact.

Attaching metal conduit correctly is crucial for safety and functionality. Improper installation can lead to damaged wires, unsecure connections, misalignment issues, and electrical hazards. By following some basic steps, you can securely affix conduit to a cabinet for a clean, professional result.

What You Need

Before starting this project, make sure you have the following materials available:

• Metal conduit pieces and fittings (elbows, tees, couplings, etc.)
• Conduit straps or hangers
• Appropriate screwdriver
• Drill and drill bits
• Wrench for tightening fittings
• Metal file for smoothing burrs
• Electrical tape
• Eye protection and work gloves

Safety Tips

When working with metal conduit, keep in mind:

• Wear eye protection when drilling to avoid injury from metal fragments.
• Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges on cut metal.
• Make sure the power is disconnected at the breaker before starting.
• Double check for existing wires before drilling into surfaces.
• Use care when handling and cutting metal conduit to avoid injury.

Steps to Attach Conduit

Follow these steps to securely attach metal conduit to your cabinet:

1. Plan the Route

• Consider where you want the conduit to enter and exit the cabinet. Account for any shelving, drawers, or other internal components that could block the pathway.
• Map out where the conduit will run between the cabinet and the other devices or junctions boxes it connects to.

2. Cut the Conduit Pieces

• Measure and cut any conduit pieces needed to length using a hacksaw.
• Deburr the cut ends smooth using a metal file so they don’t damage wires.

3. Drill Holes for Entry and Exit

• Determine conduit entrance and exit points on cabinet. Mark locations clearly.
• Double check that drill locations are clear of any wires, components or supports inside the cabinet.
• Drill holes slightly larger than conduit diameter to allow easy insertion. Clean up any metal shavings.

4. Affix Conduit Fittings

• Attach elbows, couplers, or other required fittings to conduit using pipe wrench.
• Make sure all fittings are secure and aligned properly. Apply electrical tape if needed.

5. Mount Conduit Clamps

• Position conduit clamps along the route at minimum of every 3 feet.
• Drill holes with bit slightly smaller than strap screw size.
• Secure clamps to cabinet at drilled points with appropriate screws.

6. Run Conduit Through Fittings

• Insert conduit fully into entrance fitting or connector. Align properly with hole.
• Feed conduit through all intermediate clamps and fittings along planned route.
• Attach exit fitting and ensure conduit inserts fully and is properly aligned.

7. Allow for Expansion and Contraction

• Metallic conduit will expand and contract slightly with temperature changes.
• Avoid making any section longer than 10 feet without an expansion fitting.
• Use suitable couplings or offsets to break up longer straight runs if needed.

8. Check Alignment

• Verify conduit forms a straight and direct pathway between entry and exit points.
• Ensure any elbow fittings angle in the proper direction. The conduit should not buckle or warp.
• Adjust straps or add fittings if necessary to achieve proper alignment.

Once you have double checked the installation, you can run your electrical wiring through the conduit. Maintaining the metal conduit properly helps safeguard your electrical system while keeping everything neatly organized.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about attaching metal conduit to a cabinet:

What type of conduit should I use?

Use galvanized rigid steel conduit for the most durable and secure connection. EMT thinwall conduit also works well. Avoid flexible conduit except for short connections.

Where can I purchase metal conduit?

Check your local hardware store, home improvement center, or electrical supply retailer. Many sizes and options are readily available.

What are conduit fittings used for?

Fittings like elbows, couplings, and tees join sections of conduit together, change direction, allow expansion and contraction, or provide access. Use compatible types for the conduit size.

How far apart should I space conduit clamps?

Clamps or straps should be positioned at minimum intervals of 3 feet. Additional clamps may be required at closer intervals near fittings or to properly support long runs.

What size hole should I drill in the cabinet for the conduit?

Drill clearance holes around 1/4 inch larger than the conduit outer diameter. For example, drill a 1-inch hole for 3/4 inch conduit.

Can I run other utilities through the same conduit?

No. Electrical conduit should only contain electrical wiring. Never run pipes or other utilities through a conduit intended for electrical.

What should I do if the conduit doesn’t line up properly?

Use short adjustable conduit fittings like offsets and kick elbows to jog the conduit into alignment if necessary. Just maintain proper bend radius.

How can I ensure a waterproof seal?

Apply duct seal, caulking, foam, or other UL-approved sealing compounds around conduit penetrations, especially on exterior walls or wet locations.

Conclusion

Attaching metal conduit provides a robust and organized pathway for sheltering the wires between a cabinet and other devices or boxes. While it requires drilling precise holes and securing fittings, this detailed guide covers the entire process for safely and properly affixing conduit to a cabinet. Paying attention to planning, alignment, and a secure installation will lead to a long-lasting conduit connection that keeps your electrical system safe.