How To Bend Conduit

Bending conduit is a common task in electrical and construction work, as it allows you to route electrical wires and cables through buildings in a neat and organized manner. Conduit can be made of materials like PVC, galvanized steel, or aluminum. The bending process varies depending on the type of conduit and its diameter. Here's a general guide on how to bend conduit:

Materials and Tools You'll Need:

1. Conduit (PVC, galvanized steel, or aluminum)
2. Conduit bender (hand or electric, appropriate size)
3. Measuring tape
4. Pencil or chalk
5. Level
6. Hacksaw or conduit cutter
7. Deburring tool (for metal conduit)
8. Reamer or deburring tool (for PVC conduit)
9. Work gloves and safety glasses

Steps for Bending Conduit:

1. Measure and Mark: Determine the length and location of the bends in your conduit run. Use a measuring tape, pencil, or chalk to mark where the bends will be. Ensure your measurements are accurate and that the conduit run will align properly with your electrical boxes or other fixtures.

2. Select the Proper Conduit Bender: Choose the appropriate conduit bender size for the conduit you are working with. Conduit benders are typically labeled with the conduit size they are designed for.

3. Position the Conduit Bender: Place the conduit bender on the ground with the hook (the curved part) facing up and the handle extending outward. Align the mark on your conduit with the star-wheel or arrow mark on the bender. The star-wheel or arrow mark indicates where the bend will occur.

4. Align and Level: Make sure the conduit is aligned with the mark on the bender, and use a level to ensure that it's perfectly horizontal or vertical, depending on your bending needs.

5. Bend the Conduit: Apply steady pressure to the handle of the bender to start the bend. Use your body weight and leverage to make the bend gradually. Be patient and avoid applying too much force too quickly to prevent kinking or damaging the conduit.

6. Check the Angle: As you bend the conduit, periodically check the angle using a protractor or conduit bending chart. This ensures that you achieve the desired angle for your conduit run.

7. Make Additional Bends: If your conduit run requires multiple bends, repeat the bending process, taking care to measure and mark each bend accurately.

8. Cut and Deburr (For Metal Conduit): If you need to cut the conduit to a specific length, use a hacksaw or conduit cutter. After cutting, use a deburring tool to remove any sharp edges or burrs from the cut end. This helps protect the wires and ensures a clean fit with connectors.

9. Ream (For PVC Conduit): If you're working with PVC conduit, use a reamer or deburring tool to remove any burrs or rough edges from the inside of the conduit. This ensures smooth wire pulling.

10. Attach Connectors: Install appropriate connectors and fittings on the ends of the conduit, and secure them in place using locknuts or other suitable fasteners.

Remember to wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, when working with conduit, especially if you're cutting or deburring metal conduit. Always follow local electrical codes and regulations when installing conduit and wiring to ensure safety and compliance.