[roycemek]

I'm trying to find out about how to properly strap aluminum flex conduit. In my new addition I choose to use aluminum flex throughout and I wanted to know the proper way to securley fasten the conduit to the studs. I started a small portion of the conduit and for this I'm using 1/2" flex. Well I decided to check both Home Depot and Lowes yesterday and for some reason I cannot find the correct straps for 1/2" aluminum flex. I found 3/8" one hole flex straps but nothing larger. Then I look over in the rigid section and they have 1/2" one hole straps but they are too small. I tried the 3/4" one hole straps and it seems a little loose but fits ok. The same goes for the two hole straps. Should I be using the 3/4" one hole straps? Or maybe I should be using something else all together?

One other question, according to the NEC, can aluminum flex conduit be exposed or does it need to be covered with sheetrock? How about the "smurf" conduit?

Thank you,
Royce M

[tkrussell]

Try finding the Drive Straps shown here:
Briscon Products - STRAPS

Otherwise, one hole straps that fit will work, even if they are a bit loose.

Straps are needed no more than 12" from a box, and then every 4.5 feet, unless it is fished in voids behind finishes.

Sure FMC can be exposed, just not subjected to any physical damage. Same for the ENT (Electrical Nonmetallic Tubing- AKA Smurf Tube, called Smurf tube because of the same blue color as a Smurf), except strapping must not exceed 3 feet.

Be careful with strapping the aluminum flex, it can crush easily.

Don't forget the green wire in all runs of FMC.

[roycemek]

Thanks TK. I will look for the drive straps and will definitely run a green for all runs.