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Discussion Starter · #1 ·
So I have a question about electrical conduit and non metallic wire. Now a rudimentary search engine result will mention these items aren't entirely the same, but I am curious what significant differences there are.

For example, this provide as shown in a link, http://www.tnb.com/ps/fulltilt/index.cgi?check=Y&part=5415112CFBBP mentions for use with conduit, yet the Arlington brand version only mentions a NM connector, but there isn't any mention of conduit.

http://www.aimedia.co/media/spec-sheets/FBS1423.pdf

What I am truly intrigued about is if the Thomas and Betts version in the first link can be used with Romex/NMB wire or if I am just misunderstanding some information here.
 

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Conduit is pipe. It can be plastic(PVC) or metal. You use individual wires inside the pipe.
Non metallic (NMB) is a cable. It has wires wrapped together in plastic sheathing.

They both use different methods to install.
I'm not sure what you are asking about in the links.
 

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Discussion Starter · #3 ·
Conduit is pipe. It can be plastic(PVC) or metal. You use individual wires inside the pipe.
Non metallic (NMB) is a cable. It has wires wrapped together in plastic sheathing.

They both use different methods to install.
I'm not sure what you are asking about in the links.

Thank you for that information. Sorry if my question lacked clarity.

With the Thomas and Betts ceiling fan support box, on their site this mentioned for use of conduit, so I am not sure if this can be used with non metallic (NMB) or if this can only be used with conduit wiring. Just wasn't sure, so I figured this might be worth while to ask.
 

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I've never met a metal box I couldn't put nm in. Most ceiling fan boxes, when metal, will come with a grommet or other means to receive nm. For instance the link you posted has an image of a box that appears to have built in nm clamps in addition to 1/2" (trade size) KO's. 1/2" KO's can be used for either conduit or nm when the appropriate fitting is implemented.
 

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Discussion Starter · #5 ·
I've never met a metal box I couldn't put nm in. Most ceiling fan boxes, when metal, will come with a grommet or other means to receive nm. For instance the link you posted has an image of a box that appears to have built in nm clamps in addition to 1/2" (trade size) KO's. 1/2" KO's can be used for either conduit or nm when the appropriate fitting is implemented.
This the information I was seeking, thank you for providing that Arrow3030. Makes sense that most ceiling fan supported boxes would utilize a grommet or another means for usage of non metallic wire. Since the wire is sheathed I initially thought that would be sufficient, but glad I learned otherwise.

Additionally, great to know about 1/2 inch knock out information.
 

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Discussion Starter · #8 ·
Certainly those NM connectors are acceptable but also many metal boxes come equipped with NM cable clamps like the box below.

This might be a rudimentary question, but are the non metallic connectors parallel to the Steel City knock out? If that is the case, I presume you still need a non metallic push in connector?
 

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This might be a rudimentary question, but are the non metallic connectors parallel to the Steel City knock out? If that is the case, I presume you still need a non metallic push in connector?
Not sure I understand your question. You do not need anything in addition to the clamp shown in the box. Twist out the knock out. Insert the cable under the clamp and tighten the screw. Done.
 

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The NM clamps are the two pieces on the right and left of image.
You need nothing more then to remove one of the knock outs, insert the NM and tighten the clamp. Not too tight or you will cut into the cable.
 

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Discussion Starter · #12 ·
When looking at the image, the built in clamps are on the left and right side of the box. When using these clamps for nm, which is their only intended use, no additional material is required.
Thank you for the clarity. Just so I fully understand this, there isn't a need for a plastic non metallic push in connector for the 1/2 inch knock out location since these two built in clamps are included? Additionally, based on what Joed has written, am I correct with assuming you attach the NM in the same fashion you would with a outlet that contains a neutral, ground and hot wire switch? Of course the ground wire would be attached to the ground screw in this case.

There is a learning curve here, so I appreciate the patience and willingness to help here.
 

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Discussion Starter · #14 ·
If the NM clamps are used the KO stays in place. If the KO is used you need a NM clamp on the cable.
This makes more sense to me, thank you. So essentially if non metallic clamps are used, you would attach the black wire (I presume this is the hot lead) and white wire (neutral) these would be attached to the NM clamps with the ground wire wire naturally be attached to the ground screw.

Am I understanding your statement correctly? Based off this diagram, that is where I based my information in addition to what you mentioned.

 

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This makes more sense to me, thank you. So essentially if non metallic clamps are used, you would attach the black wire (I presume this is the hot lead) and white wire (neutral) these would be attached to the NM clamps with the ground wire wire naturally be attached to the ground screw.

Am I understanding your statement correctly? Based off this diagram, that is where I based my information in addition to what you mentioned.

No. The wires do not connect to the clamp.
The wires connect to the device which needs power.
The clamp clamps down onto the outer cable and secures the cable in place.
 
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