What Are Entrance and Conduit Bodies?

Entrance and conduit bodies are fittings installed in a raceway run to provide a directional change and an accessible chamber with a removable cover. In EMT systems, they are commonly used where a standard bend would make pulling difficult or where future access is useful for maintenance and conductor replacement. Common body patterns include LB, LL, LR, C, and T. Service entrance style fittings may also be used where conductors transition into equipment or where the raceway entry needs a more controlled and protected path. The exact use depends on the fitting design, markings, and the raceway method being installed.

Where Are Entrance and Conduit Bodies Used?

These fittings are widely used in commercial buildings, apartment common areas, schools, retail units, service rooms, mechanical spaces, and exterior wall penetrations. They are common anywhere EMT changes direction near a panel, meter base, disconnect, pull point, rooftop equipment feed, or branch circuit run. Maintenance teams also use them when replacing damaged fittings or when modifying an existing raceway route without rebuilding a full section of conduit. In exposed work, conduit bodies can make troubleshooting and conductor replacement more manageable than relying only on bends and couplings.

How To Choose Entrance and Conduit Bodies

Start with the raceway layout. If the conduit turns into the back of the body and exits through the cover side, an LB is often the practical choice. If access needs to come from the left or right side, use LL or LR accordingly. For straight runs that need pull access, a C body is common. For a branch split, a T body may be suitable. Then confirm the trade size and EMT compatibility. After that, check material and finish for the environment. Indoor dry locations may allow standard die-cast or steel options, while damp, wet, or corrosive areas may call for better sealing and more corrosion-resistant construction. Also verify cover type, gasket needs, grounding continuity, and whether the fitting is listed for the intended use. If conductor count is high or wire size is large, review fill and pulling space carefully before ordering.

Trade Rules Of Thumb

As a practical rule of thumb, conduit bodies are most useful where a standard bend would make pulling harder, especially near equipment entries or on retrofit work with limited access. LB bodies are often chosen near wall entries because the cover remains accessible after installation. C bodies are commonly used as pull points on straight runs where future conductor replacement is likely. On exposed EMT, many electricians prefer to orient covers where they can be opened without removing adjacent equipment or supports. Another useful rule of thumb is to think ahead about screwdriver clearance and cover removal space, not just conduit alignment. These are practical installation habits, not code substitutes, and final layout should always be checked against the applicable code and the fitting listing.

Sizing Guidelines

Size the conduit body to match the raceway trade size and then verify that the internal volume and geometry are suitable for the conductors being installed. Do not assume that a body with the correct hub size automatically provides enough room for every conductor combination in that raceway size. Larger conductors, compact bends into equipment, and multiple current-carrying conductors can change what is practical. As a buying guideline, if the run includes larger feeders, multiple bends, or difficult pulling conditions, it is worth reviewing whether the selected body style gives enough pulling room and access. If splicing is planned, confirm that the specific body is identified for that use and that box fill and accessibility requirements are met. Always use the Canadian Electrical Code, local authority requirements, and manufacturer data for final sizing and installation decisions.

Common Installation Practices

Installers typically place conduit bodies where covers remain visible and serviceable after the job is complete. On exterior walls, common practice is to orient the body to reduce water entry risk and to use the correct gasketed cover where required. Supports should be planned so the body is not carrying unnecessary mechanical strain from the raceway. Threads, connectors, and locknuts should be tightened correctly for continuity and mechanical security. Where the body is part of a service or outdoor raceway path, sealing methods and bonding details should be checked carefully. It is also common practice to pull conductors after the body and cover are fully secured and aligned, rather than forcing conductors through a misaligned fitting.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is choosing the body style based only on the drawing direction rather than on actual cover access once the conduit is installed. Another is assuming all conduit bodies can be used for splices, which is not always the case. Installers also run into trouble when they underestimate conductor fill, especially on feeder work or when insulation thickness is greater than expected. Exterior installations sometimes fail early because the wrong cover or sealing approach was used for the environment. Another avoidable issue is placing the body where future access is blocked by strut, ductwork, or equipment. For replacements, it is also important not to assume that every brand has identical dimensions or cover patterns.

Brand Comparisons

Bridgeport is a well-known choice for EMT fittings and conduit body related hardware, and it is commonly selected for standard commercial and contractor work where fit, finish, and availability matter. Wheatland and Atkore are widely recognized in the broader raceway market and are often encountered on projects where conduit and fittings are sourced as part of a larger system package. T&B has long been a familiar name on many installed bases, especially where contractors or maintenance teams prefer continuity with existing specifications. In practice, matching an existing installed brand can make sense when dimensions, covers, or project standards need to stay consistent. Bridgeport is a solid option for many routine EMT applications, while existing spec requirements, installed system compatibility, and local buyer preference may still drive selection toward another market leader on some jobs.

Related Products

Buyers looking at entrance and conduit bodies often also need EMT connectors, couplings, straps, locknuts, bushings, rain-tight fittings, service entrance caps, grounding bushings, pull elbows, junction boxes, and weatherproof covers. On service or exterior work, sealing fittings and corrosion-resistant support hardware may also be part of the same takeoff. If the goal is easier pulling or future maintenance access, it is worth reviewing the full raceway path to make sure the body, supports, connectors, and enclosure entries all work together.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an LB, LL, and LR conduit body?

The difference is the direction of access and exit. An LB typically turns through the back of the body, while LL and LR turn left or right when viewed from the cover side. The correct choice depends on how the conduit approaches the fitting and where you need the cover access.

Can conduit bodies be used for wire splices?

Some can and some cannot. You should not assume a conduit body is approved for splicing unless the product markings, manufacturer information, and code requirements allow it. If splicing is part of the design, verify fill and accessibility before purchase.

Are entrance and conduit bodies suitable for outdoor use?

Many are used outdoors, but suitability depends on the specific fitting, cover, gasket, finish, and installation method. For wet or damp locations, confirm the product is identified for that environment and install it to reduce water entry and corrosion issues.

How do I know what size conduit body to order?

Start with the raceway trade size, then confirm the body style and internal capacity are appropriate for the conductors in the run. Larger wire, tighter pulls, and feeder applications may require more careful review than a simple branch circuit layout.

Why use a conduit body instead of only bending EMT?

A conduit body can make pulling easier, provide future access, and simplify changes in direction near equipment or wall entries. It is often a practical choice on retrofit work, exposed raceways, and runs where maintenance access matters.

Is Bridgeport a good choice for EMT conduit body applications?

Bridgeport is commonly chosen for EMT fitting applications and is suitable for many standard commercial and contractor jobs. If you are matching an existing installation or a project specification built around another brand, compare dimensions, covers, and listing details before ordering.