What is a conduit body, and why is it also called a condulet?
A conduit body is an access fitting in a conduit run with a removable, gasketed cover for pulling conductors or changing direction. "Condulet" is a Crouse-Hinds brand name that became the generic term, the way "Band-Aid" did. Electricians use the two words interchangeably for the same LB, T, and C fittings.
What do the letters LB, LL, LR, C, and T mean?
The letter says where the opening sits, viewed with the conduit hubs in line. An LB puts the cover on the back; an LL on the left, an LR on the right. A C runs straight through with an access cover. A T adds a third hub for a branch. LB is the most common — used to enter a wall or panel from outside.
When do you use a conduit body instead of a pull box?
Reach for a conduit body when you need access or a direction change but not a lot of wire room. It's faster to install than a box, keeps the run rated and weatherproof, and gives a pulling point on long or bent runs. Use a pull box instead when many conductors or splices need the space.
What is a mogul conduit body, and what do Form 7 and Form 8 mean?
They describe size and depth. A mogul conduit body is an oversized version with extra interior volume for large conductors and tight bend radii. Form 7 and Form 8 are depth series — Form 8 is deeper than Form 7, giving more wire-bending room in the same opening. Pick the larger form when conductors are big.
Which material should I choose — aluminum, iron, or PVC?
The conduit and the setting decide the material. Aluminum is the general-purpose default, light and corrosion-resistant. Malleable iron is the heavy-duty pick for industrial and high-abuse areas. PVC bodies solvent-weld to PVC conduit for underground and corrosive runs. A gasketed cover makes any of them weatherproof outdoors.
Do conduit bodies need a cover and gasket?
Yes — the body ships open, and the cover and gasket are what seal it. A blank cover closes the opening; a gasket between the cover and body makes the fitting raintight for outdoor and wet locations. Covers are wedge-nut or screw-on — match the cover and gasket to the body's series and size.
Running the rest of the raceway? Terminate and join the tube with EMT Connectors & Couplings, see the full fitting range across rigid and PVC in Conduit Fittings, and step up to a junction or pull box in Electrical Boxes & Covers.