Electrician Terminology (2026 Electrical Trade Slang Dictionary)

Electricians use plenty of electrical terms that don’t seem to make any sense.

And some of them sound like they were made by a sparky with a really sick mind.

1900 Deep? A-Bushing? Bang on Strap?

Really boys?

(can you tell these electrical terms were made by other electricians?)

Here’s a complete electrical trade slang dictionary.

Electricians Dictionary (Slang Terms)

Electrical Term / Electrician Slang	Definition
1900	a 4 in. square box that is 1-1/2 in. deep.
1900 DEEP	a 4 in. square box that is 2-1/8 in. deep.
8B	a 4 in. octagon box that is 1-1/2 in. deep
8B Deep	a 4 in. octagon box that is 2-1/8 in. deep.
A.R.	Automatic recloser
Abandon Plug	Floor plate plug inserts. These threaded plugs seal up an unused device opening in a floor box plate. You order them in sizes from 1/2″ to 2″
A-Bushing	This is a plastic bushing used inside the enclosure to insulate the end of the rigid conduit. It comes in sizes from 1/2″ to 6″ and are generally rated to 105°. The bushing to protect the wires coming out of the conduit is the BB bushing.
AC	A flexible package consisting of an armour jacket wrapped around wire conductors, forming an easily installable wiring system. Like MC, AC has an overall Mylar wrapping over all the wires to provide protection and therefore doesn’t require Anti-Short Bushings.
Acorn	A Ground Rod Clamp is a copper mechanical connector used to connect a wide range of wire sizes and types to a ground rod. Those ground rods may be copper or stainless steel. It works by sliding over the ground rod, having the wire inserted under the flat part of the screw, and mechanically tightening down with a wrench.
Add-A-Depth Ring	a means of extending the walls of a device box to the wall surface, proving a barrier between a wiring device and the surrounding wall material
Adjustable Beam Clamp	When you don’t want your beam clamp to have the chance to slip off the beam, one of the two adjustable style beam clamps is the one to use. The standard style (E-160) has a fixed bottom where the threaded rod is attached, and the swivel (E-165) lets the threaded rod adjust left and right. To use these clamps on an I-beam, the flange can’t exceed .8″ and the hook rod, which comes in sizes 6, 9 or 12″ must reach.
Air Plenum	a compartment or chamber to which one or more air ducts are connected and which forms part of the air distribution system
AJ	An anchor that consists of an inner steel cone, with a cylindrical machine-threaded hole, surrounded by a lead jacket, cylindrical on the outside. You drill a hole in concrete or masonry the shape of the AJ, drop it in with the base of the cone toward the bottom of the hold, then force the lead down tightly in the hole by hitting the AJ driver.
Aligator Knob	A tie stick.
Alley Arm	A side arm brace, which braces a crossarm that is uneven.
AMP (A)	a measurement of the amount of electrical current in a circuit at any moment.
Anti-Short Bushing	When used with AC cable or Greenfield, Anti-Short ® bushings protect the wires from being chafed by the rough’s end of the armour at the point of connection. NEC article 333-9 requires their use on AC (armoured cable). They are placed between the outer metal armour and the conductors forming a protective shield at the point where the wire is bent during the final connection. In the trade, they are referred to simply by their sizes 0 through 8 depending on the cable or Greenfield size.
Aprrentice Plug	Knockout plugs used to cover exposed knock-out holes in steel boxes and enclosures
Arkansas Union	Thread a conduit so far that the coupling will screw all the way onto conduit. Butt another piece of threaded conduit to end and unscrew coupling off first pipe and onto second.
Armor	a metallic covering around the cable for mechanical protection. Typically interlocked steel or aluminum.
Armor-Clad/Cable	A flexible package consisting of an armour jacket wrapped around wire conductors, forming an easily installable wiring system. Like MC, AC has an overall Mylar wrapping over all the wires to provide protection and therefore doesn’t require Anti-Short Bushings.
Ash Tray	A Mudcap.
AT&T Strand Clamp	This has been known since the turn of the century as the AT&T standard strand clamp or guy clamp. It is made from hot-dipped galvanised rolled steel and will hold any size guy strand from 1/4″ to 1/2″ diameter.
Atomic	The “tilt-in” 2-piece connector for non-metallic sheathed cable (a.k.a. Romex™) is a labour-saving design that lets the electrician clamp the connector onto the line, tilt it into the knockout and tighten down the screws. The screws both bind the connector to the enclosure and compress onto the line making a secure fit. This eliminates the need to remove the locknut and re-attach it inside an often cramped box. Initially marketed by Tomic™. Available in conduit sizes from 1/2″ to 1-1/2″ (see also ‘Butterfly Connector’; ‘Tomic’).
Attic Monkey	An electrician with a slim build best suited for crawling through tight spaces.
B Type Splice	These splices fall into a category called Insulation Displacement Connectors are used exclusively for plain old telephone wires (POTS), alarm and other low voltage circuits. You insert the cables, compress with a linesman pliers (or unique tool), and the metal teeth inside will pierce the insulation and make a permanent connection that is moisture resistant. While the Dolphin is re-distributed by various manufacturers and refers to the round tubular unit, the 3M UR performs a similar job but has a gel to protect the wires.
Baby Shoes	Small copper lugs which take circuit size wires.
Back to Back	Connector Connects and separates two boxes while building a raceway between them.
Baker Board	Adjustable sliding scaffold board.
Ball and Brush	A rat tail can be either the flexible mandrel alone or the mandrel, and wire brush hooked together. This assembly is then pulled through the conduit before pulling cables to remove any dirt, debris, or obstacles introduced after the conduit was installed.
Ball Of Mason	Rough twine.
Baloney	A cable.
Baloney Bender	A guy who works with thick or heavy cable.
Band Iron	This is a ¾” wide galvanized steel band with holes to accommodate nails and bolts. Available with the holes evenly spaced or with alternating small and large holes. It is typically used to hang some kind of pipe from some kind of support system such as strut, wooden studs or simple masonry.
Bang On Bushing	When a fitting is not required by NEC, you use this insulating bushing to protect data cables coming out of exposed EMT.
Bang on Strap	Flange Clip
Banger	A device used to locate faults in cables underground. This device uses a high voltage discharge to produce an audible thump where the defect exists. The thump is caused by the discharge exiting into the ground. The apparatus is typically self-contained as a portable device that can be used out in the field (see also, ‘Thumper”; ‘Surge Generator’; ‘Banger’).
Banjo Box	Mobile storage box for contractor tools on a jobsite.
Bantam Plug	Plastic drywall anchor.
Bar Hanger	An adaptor used to affix a lighting fixture directly to an electric box when the fixture and electrical box mounting holes do not line up, ( see also ‘Crossbar Hanger’).
Base Spacer	When burying multiple electrical conduits in concrete, they need to have specific spacing between each other to ensure the integrity of the resulting concrete pour. Too close together, and the concrete slab won’t have sufficient rigidity. Too far apart, and the installation may not be possible or efficient. Therefore, spacers are used to keep the proper distance between conduits and support them as the concrete is slushing and being compacted around them. The installation uses two types of spacers: Base and Intermediate. Sometimes called a chair, the Base spacer goes at the very bottom of the pile, and the first conduit is laid inside it. The intermediate spacers go on top of each conduit and form both the top of one and the bottom of the next. That is why they are sometimes called the ladder.
Bat Wing	This is a spring metal device used to secure conduit, armoured cable, portable cord, communication cables, etc., to a flange, wire or rod. The term Bat Wings comes from its brand name in 1959. Although the KX part number is shown, it also refers to the K series. The KX series is used to secure wire, where the K series is used for conduit.
Battleship	Holds gem box in sheetrock by offering counter pressure to the box ears.
Battleships	Thin sheet metal clamps that are used to mount steel boxes in drywall.
B-Bushing	This is an insulated throat metal bushing that, when used in conjunction with a locknut, affixes GAL or IMC to a metal enclosure and provides abrasion protection to the wire insulation. It comes in die-cast or malleable iron with a plastic insulator.
Beam Clamp – Adjustable	When you don’t want your beam clamp to have the chance to slip off the beam, one of the two adjustable style beam clamps is the one to use. The standard style (E-160) has a fixed bottom where the threaded rod is attached, and the swivel (E-165) lets the threaded rod adjust left and right. To use these clamps on an I-beam, the flange can’t exceed .8″ and the hook rod, which comes in sizes 6, 9 or 12″ must reach.
Beam Clamp (Malleable)	Beam Clamps are used to hang objects from some flange. They are attached by tightening a set-screw between the jaw base and the beam flange and sizes from 1/4″ to 2″. The bottom and back are tapped to accept a bolt or threaded rod.
Beam Eater	Self Tapping Tapcon
Beanies	These splices fall into a category called Insulation Displacement Connectors are used exclusively for plain old telephone wires (POTS), alarm and other low voltage circuits. You insert the wires, compress with a linesman pliers (or special tool), and the metal teeth inside will pierce the insulation and make a permanent connection that is moisture resistant. While the Dolphin is re-distributed by various manufacturers and refers to the round tubular unit, the 3M UR performs a similar job but has a gel to protect the wires.
Bear Grease	Z.L.N. electric contact aid.
Beater	A large pry-bar used for a variety of purposes ranging from persuading the large heavy object to move a few inches, to pulling spikes to stripping construction materials during demolition.
Becky	A cable sling.
Bell Box	To an oldtimer, a Bell Box or Bell Cover refers to two or three gangs weatherproof die cast aluminium box, extension or cover. BELL, founded in 1946 by Frank BELLeck and Harry Stllman, was the first to market weatherproof boxes and covers. It became part of SquareD in 1971 and then in 1986, part of the Hubbell RACO family. The boxes and extensions have anywhere from three to five threaded hubs ranging from 1/2 to 1″. Covers are available for almost any combination of devices you can imagine.
Bell Cover	To an oldtimer, a Bell Box or Bell Cover refers to any one, two or three gang weatherproof die-cast aluminium box, extension or cover. BELL, founded in 1946 by Frank BELLeck and Harry Stillman, was the first to market weatherproof boxes and covers. It became part of SquareD in 1971 and then in 1986, part of the Hubbell RACO family. The boxes and extensions have anywhere from three to five threaded hubs ranging from 1/2 to 1″. Covers are available for almost any combination of devices you can imagine.
Bell Hanger	Bit Used for telephone installations. A hole in the bit end assists in wire pulling.
Bell Wire	Thermostat wire usually 18 or 22 guage.
Bell Wrench	Wrench for tightening various square head bolts.
Ben Franklin	Besides being an inventor, statesman, author, freemason, and Founding Father, he also was an electrician.
Bender	A hammer
Bible	The electrician’s code book
Bicycle	A chain drill for boring holes.
Binder Head Screw	An old term for a Fillister Head Screw.
Bird Condom	These splices fall into a category called Insulation Displacement Connectors are used exclusively for plain old telephone wires (POTS), alarm and other low voltage circuits. You insert the cables, compress with a linesman pliers (or unique tool), and the metal teeth inside will pierce the insulation and make a permanent connection that is moisture resistant. While the Dolphin is re-distributed by various manufacturers and refers to the round tubular unit, the 3M UR performs a similar job but has a gel to protect the wires.
Bird dog	Someone watching everything you do
Birdcage	A plastic lamp cage or guard to fit over pigtail and protect lamp from breakage.
Bit Bender	Assist manipulating Fish Bits for accurate placement within the wall.
Black Beauty	Cable tie mounting blocks with peel-off backing available in a variety of sizes and shapes.
Black Button®	This is a low-profile, push-in or snap-in plastic Romex (NM) connector for 1/2″ or 3/4″ knockouts. The low profile makes it ideal for A/C disconnects.
Black Iron	The strut used to hang acoustical tile is called Black iron. This is the “C” shaped, 1- 1/2″ black strut that is bolted to the concrete deck or wooden beams using CADDY® hangers to create a secure mounting point for the grid ceiling runners. When looking-up fittings for black iron, most catalogues, such as CADDY®, use the term Lathers Channel.
Blackburn Clamp	Service wedge clamp
Blankup Canopy	When a ceiling fixture or fan is removed and another device is not put in its place, the box can be blanked-up with either a steel blank or a more decorative blank up canopy. The canopy is painted white and is available in 4″ and 5″ sizes.
BLOCK-LOC ®	a Hubbell Inc. trade name for self-positioning masonry boxes and tile covers.
Blow Gun	The device that a power blower shoots through a conduit system when fishing the initial line. It typically has a hard plastic core with a flexible foam body that fits a specific pipe size. It comes in 1/2″ through 6″ conduit sizes and has a loop at both ends to attach the fish line.
Boatswain’S Chair	A small wooden seat supported by four ropes secured to a ring or tied at a common point above the workman’s head.
Boingie Nut	The Spring Nut or Boingie Nut is used to attach objects to strut. The spring holds the nut in place inside the channel while you bolt the object to the strut.
Bonding	the permanent joining of metallic parts to form an electrically conductive path that will assure electrical continuity and the capacity to conduct safely any current likely to be imposed.
Bonding Jumper	There are two type of bonding jumpers: CONDUIT to CONDUIT or CONDUIT to CABINET/ENCLOSURE. The BJ series shown below is for bonding two rigid or EMT conduits together, while the BJE is for bonding conduit to the enclosure. The device consists of a “U” bolt, malleable clamp and a tinned copper braid. These used most often with expansion fittings which requires that telescoping portions of raceway or expansion couplings maintain their electrical continuity as if it was a continuous run of conduit. In-service equipment they are used to continue the ground from the bonding bushing to the enclosure wall. It comes in sizes from 11.” to 15 3/8″ long and works on 1/2″ through 6″ pipe.
Booger Light	Security or emergency lighting fixtures that are typically mounted above drives and entryways, often fitted with a proximity sensor along with a daylight sensor.
Booger Wire	a neutral wire.
Bookie Tool	a staple puller.
Bookie Wheel	a measuring device.
Boomer	a lineman who leaves one job to get to the next job;
Booties	insulators for meter clips.
Bottles	insulators for glass.
Box	padmounted transformer or switchgear.
Box Cleats	Holds gem box in sheetrock by offering counter pressure to the box ears.
Box Connector	Connects and separates two boxes while building a raceway between them.
Box Extender	This is an open-bottomed octagon ring that gets cemented into the building floor (deck) after being nailed to the wood subflooring. Using backplates and covers, it becomes a complete deck box and is available in depths from 2″ to 6″ with knockouts from 1/2″ to 1″. It is called a concrete ring when extending an existing mud box, and it can be called a mud box when it has a backplate and serves as a mud box. A classic mud box, however, comes as one unit with the backplate welded in place.
BOX MOUNT	a term commonly used to denote where the screws of a cover attach.
Box Spacer	Connects and separates two boxes while building a raceway between them.
BOX-LOC® RACO	trade name for our snapon metal stud bracket.
Bracket Bar	An adaptor used to affix a lighting fixture directly to an electric box when the fixture and electrical box mounting holes do not line up, (see also ‘Fixture Bar’).
Bracket Set	Holds gem box in sheetrock by offering counter pressure to the box ears.
Breakaway Swivel	The swivel acts as a circuit breaker to disengage the pulling rope from the wire when a certain pulling tension is exceeded. It does it by using break-away pins in the swivel that come in ratings from 200 to 1000 pounds. To change the breakaway setting, you just change the pin.
Breaker Bar	Called a breaker bar by the trade and a “Flex Handle” by Klein, this tool is a long handle with a flexible head to which a 1/2″ or 3/8″ drive socket is attached. The long handle provides substantial leverage, which allows the user to “break” difficult bolts or nuts.
Breaker Lock	Breaker locks are used to prevent someone from accidentally turning-on a breaker that has been switched off by a maintenance worker or contractor in compliance with OSHA’s Lockout/Tagout standard. Usually used in conjunction with lockout tags that explain the who and why the breaker was locked-out. The model number shown below is specifically for the Square D QO single-pole breaker, but there are versions for all the major manufacturers. You have to pay cautious attention to the catalogue description to see if it fits the manufacturers’ specific model breaker you are trying to fit.
Bridal Ring	Loop that supports wire. Threaded or wood-screw tip to attach to clip or wood.
Broomsticks	phase spacers, used to keep phases from coming into contact with each other at midspan.
Bubble Cover	Weatherproof outlet box cover used to protect electrical connections that are exposed to weather or wet conditions. Designed to fully protect the connection while the cover is closed
Buck Arm	two sets of crossarms at 90 degree angles to each other.
Bucket Bag	A nylon multi-pocket bag that fits over 5gal bucket to turn it into a tool bag.
Bucket Of Steam	These are practical joke terms that foreman typically uses to break-in the apprentices. It gets amusing when the apprentice sends the line’s request up, where it gets ordered by purchasing and sent to the distributor. Usually, it stops there, but sometimes it will be a new inside person who asks around the office how to code a bucket-of-steam or some other prank item.
Bucket Truck	an aerial lift truck for raising men high enough to work on lines from the insulated bucket of the truck.
Bug	Split bolt connector (looks like someone taped over a bug) used to mechanically join two or more wires together.
Bug Wrench	a speed wrench for bug installation.
Bugeye	This device is useful for quickly determining if a receptacle has power and anything obviously wrong with the wiring. Enhanced models perform GFCI testing, but this tester is essentially idiot-proof by using three lights and a sticker explaining the meaning of these lights.
Bugs	solderless – typically bolted – connectors.
Bull Line	heavy line that pulls wires in, (see also ‘hard line’).
Bull Pen	where a work crew dwells before and after work.
Bull Wheel	a reel device, keeps tension on a transmission conductor during stringing operations.
Bulldog Grip	When working with a guy wire or other types of aircraft cables, you need to bring the cable to tension while it is set in place and clamped down. While these wire cables offer terrific pulling strength for their small size, they are notoriously difficult to grab onto. The Bulldog grip, or Klein’s Haven, is a small, lightweight grip that is ideal when the conductor’s compression is not an issue. When coupled with a come-along, the Bulldog grip tensions and temporarily hold the wire while a permanent fixture can be made. They are available for cable sizes from .063 through .750, although the 1/4″ size is most common.
Bulldog Wrench	an alligator wrench.
Bullet Lampholder	an indoor track head;
Bulletproof Fiberglass	When you need to use fibreglass, and it has to be high-impact resistant, the Champion Fiberglass, with its special fibre windings and 1/4″ wall thickness, has been shown to resist penetration by a .22cal bullet. Called XWALL conduit, it has been used by telecom companies to protect their fibre optic cables in aboveground installations and in marine environments to protect high voltage cable from the corrosive elements that PVC Coated GAL can’t protect against.
Bullhorn	Epoxirod bi unit.
Bundle	Multiple strings of conductor.
Bunny Gun	A cable cutter is a tool used to cut copper or aluminium electric wire from #1 through 1000MCM. They come in four varieties: palm grip, manual two-handled units, ratchet cutters and electric cutters.
Bushing	a fitting provided to protect wires from abrasion and intended for use where conductors enter or leave the raceway system.
Bust Anchor	A multi-bladed anchor set into a hole dug in the earth. It expands to form a cone shaped square in either 6” or 8” sizes. When covered by the earth, it supports the Anchor Rod through the compression of the earth above it. Reinforcing ribs provide strength to the blades which are capable of handling extremely heavy loads.
Buster	expanding and tamping bar used on expanding anchors.
Butt Set	This is a device installers use as a portable telephone with alligator clips and specialized tone and probe capabilities.
Butterfly	Invented by hardware store owner William H. Rubely in the late 1800’s and initially called the “Tuckahoe Toggle Bolt” , the toggle bolt has been used whenever you need to mount something to a non-structural, hollow, thin wall where a screw would simply pull right out. A toggle bolt has wings like a butterfly that fold closed against an internal spring to be inserted into the wall. Once through the wall, it snaps open and provides a secure are wide, wider to fasten an object to the wall using the attached a threadedcrew. You’d see it used in sheetrock or wood applications holding a fire alarm box, a speaker to ceiling tile, a bulletin board, etc. When the screw is removed, the wing simply drops behind the wall to the floor below and is abandoned.
Butterfly Box	A box that is designed to be installed after the finished wall is installed. Old work boxes have ears, opposing corner tabs, integral to the box that presses against the the backside of the wall as the fastening screws are tightened.
Butterfly Connector	The “tilt-in” 2-piece connector for non-metallic sheathed cable (a.k.a. Romex™) is a labor saving design that lets the electrician clamp the connector onto the cable, tilt it into the knockout and tighten down the screws. The screws both bind the connector to the enclosure and compress onto the cable making a secure fit. This eliminates the need to remove the locknut and re-attach it inside an often cramped box. Originally marketed by Tomic™. Available in conduit sizes from 1/2″ to 1-1/2″, (see also ‘Butterfly Connector’; ‘Tomic’).
Butter-Its-Not	Typically though, as the goo used in compression and split-bolt connections where the aluminium wire is used, the PENETROX product is an oxide-inhibiting grease designed to create an air-tight and moisture-resistant joint. The goal is to prevent the oxidation or corrosion of the metal products used in the electrical connection. Depending upon the type of metals found in the joint, you would use a specific a version of the product containing suspended particles designed for that metal. Type “A” contains Copper particles and is used for Aluminum to Copper or Aluminium to Conduit (Steel). Type “B” contains Zinc particles and is used where the metals are all aluminium. It has found favour in several industries, such as Ham Radio operators, where the grease acts as a lubricant for threaded connections, reduce the chance of seizing down the road.
Butthole	1/2″ plastic romex connector
Buzzard	Tongue Zip ties.
BX Cable	A flexible package consisting of an armor jacket wrapped around wire conductors forming an easily installable wiring system. Similar to MC, AC has an overall Mylar wrapping over all the wires to provide protection and therefore doesn’t require the use of Anti-Short Bushings.
C.S.P.	acronym for completely self-protected transformer.
C.S.T.	acronym for customer subsurface transformer.
C.T.	acronym for current transformer.
Cable	two or more insulated conductors wrapped in metal or plastic sheathing
Cable Box	a box provided with clamps to accommodate either metallic or nonmetallic sheathed cable.
Cable Caster®	A very simple tool to fish a line through conduit or a chase. It uses a fish casting reel to pull the mouse back.
Cable Clamp	generic name for a clamp that mechanically secures the cable to the electrical outlet box.
Cable Cleaner	A cleaner used to remove contamination from a variety of insulations and jackets of high voltage cable prior to completing the splicing process.
Cable Cutter	A cable cutter is a tool used to cut copper or aluminium electric wire from #1 through 1000MCM. They come in four varieties: palm grip, manual two-handled units, ratchet cutters and electric cutters.
Cable Protector	Nails to wood stud where the cable passes through to protect wire & plumbing pipe from nails driven into the wall sometime in the future (see also ‘Stud Plate’; ‘Safety Plate’; ‘Cable Protector’).
Cable Stretcher	These are practical joke terms that foreman typically uses to break-in the apprentices. It gets amusing when the apprentice sends the line’s request up, where it gets ordered by purchasing and sent to the distributor. Usually, it stops there, but sometimes it will be a new inside person who asks around the office how to code a bucket-of-steam or some other prank item.
Cables Ties	Zip ties.
Cage	A plastic lamp cage or guard to fit over pigtail and protect lamp from breakage.
Calking Anchor	You use this anchor when you want to attach a machine screw to concrete, block or brick. Sizes from 6/30 to 3/4″.
Camel Toe	The Right Angle Beam Clamp (RC) attaches pipe at a right angle to a beam. Associated products are the Parallel (PC) and Edge (EC) clamp. It comes in sizes from 3/8″ to 4″ conduit.
Can lights	A recessed light or downlight is a light fixture that is installed into a hollow opening in a ceiling. When installed it appears to have light shining from a hole in the ceiling, concentrating the light in a downward direction as a broad floodlight or narrow spotlight.
Can Wrench	A tubular wrench with two hex head sockets (3/8″ and 7/16″). One end for the bolts used on telephone boxes and the other for binding-post terminals.
Canadian Standards Association (CSA)	an independent testing agency that certifies products to its established standards of safety and performance.
Candlestick	fiberglass downlead bracket, named so for its shape.
Candy Grabbers	channellock pliers.
Cant Hook	a curved and pointed hook on the end of a wooden or fiberglass pole
Caplet Fitting	used to terminate type ac cable or nm cable to open wiring or knob and tube. Similar to a weatherhead.
Capped Corner Coupling	When you need to run EMT along the wall and make an “L” on the inside corner of the wall with access to the wire inside, the Inside Corner Elbow fits the job. The top screws off for access to the wires inside, and the set screws connect the fitting to the conduit. Available in 1/2″ and 3/4″.
Carflex®	Originally invented by Anaconda in 1947, Sealtite® is the Trade name for the flexible, liquid-tight conduit. It can be found in applications as mundane as an air conditioning whip all the way to nuclear power plants. It is essentially a flexible metal core (much like Greenfield) covered by a moisture-resistant covering in its many forms. The typical construction for general use in electrical construction is a crush-resistant core made from high-grade galvanized steel with a smooth bore for easy wire fishing. The PVC jacket covers the core to protect from moisture, dirt, and abrasion. This product can also be ordered in low smoke, low toxic version for Transit Authority work.
Carnival Light/Socket	Lampholder that uses 12G Circuit Wire to Power & Suspend bulb from the air.
Caroet Flange	a ring that is used with a floor box to provide a decorative finish.
Carpenter Pencil	Thick, square pencil used for marking on rough surfaces.
Carpet Plate	Brass adapter that fits between floor box collar and device mounting plate.
Cartridge Fuse	A cartridge fuse found in amperage sizes 60amp or lower. This group also includes midget, glass and ceramic fuses with the exception being that these fuses are used for electronic devices. If you are asked for a cartridge safety switch, it refers to a 60 or 30amp switch. The item code shown below is a reference to one type of fuse and isn’t an indication at all of what the customer wants. You need to know amperage, voltage, UL Class, interrupting rating and most importantly, application.
Cast Floor Box	Water tight cast iron floor box in round or multi-gang rectangular.
Cat Head	capstan hoist, for relocating weighty loads.
Catchers Mask Heater	Aptly named the “Catchers Mask” heater, this unit is often found on job sites trailers because it is a combination radiant and fan-forced heater with a safety tip-over switch. The three settings of 600, 900 and 1500 watts are sufficient for personal use, and the units seem to survive the job site hardships you’d expect to find. The radiant setting is used at the 600-watt level and is an option on the 1500 watt level.
Cattle Guard	a guy guard, made from metal or plastic.
Caulk-In®	You use this anchor when you want to attach a machine screw to concrete, block or brick. Sizes from 6/30 to 3/4″.
CBS Bar	Ceiling box support attaches to black iron and provides place to attach a box.
C-channel	The strut used to hang acoustical tile is called Black iron. This is the “C” shaped, 1- 1/2″ black strut that is bolted to the concrete deck or wooden beams using CADDY® hangers to create a secure mounting point for the grid ceiling runners. When looking-up fittings for black iron, most catalogs, such as CADDY®, use the term Lathers Channel.
Century-Line® Wall Sleeve	It is often necessary to plan and prepare for the conduit to pass through a concrete wall during new construction. Wall Sleeves are used during the forming process before the concrete is poured to ensure proper placement of the conduit and allow for a complete seal once the conduit is inserted. While the Link-Seal® Modular Seal works well without the wall sleeve, and together they create a superior system to just the Modular Seal itself. Called the Century-Line® sleeve, they are made from HDPE and are 1/8 the weight of steel sleeves. They range in diameter from 2″ to 25″ and have a built-in expansion joint.
Chain Wrench	Wrench used to turn large pipes made from bicycle chain for leverage.
Chair	When burying multiple electrical conduits in concrete, they need to have specific spacing between each other to ensure the integrity of the resulting concrete pour. Too close together, and the concrete slab won’t have sufficient rigidity. Too far apart, and the installation may not be possible or efficient. Therefore, spacers are used to keep the proper distance between conduits and support them as the concrete is slushing and being compacted around them. The installation uses two types of spacers: Base and Intermediate. Sometimes called a chair, the Base spacer goes at the very bottom of the pile, and the first conduit is laid inside it. The intermediate spacers go on top of each conduit and form both the top of one and the bottom of the next. That is why they are sometimes called the ladder.
Channel Locks®	Large grooved joint pliers with right angle teeth for excellent holding ability.
Chase Nipple	This fitting connects one electrical product to another through a knockout ranging from 3/8″ to 6″. It functions like a nipple, except it is formed with a flat locknut affixed at one end. You’d use it to connect fixtures to form continuous runs, connect metal boxes, etc. The centre of the Chase nipple is hollow, and they are available with an insulated throat. Named after this turn of the century manufacturer. Sometimes gets confused with Close Nipple, which is completely different.
Cheater: Breaker	In the space of one 1″ breaker, fits two breakers side-by-side (Twin) or over/under (Piggyback).
Cheater: Wire Device	Converts a 2-wire ungrounded outlet, so it accepts a 3-wire U-Ground plug. It is rated 120V and 15amp. This is not a safe item to use and should be replaced with a modern 3-prong outlet with proper ground.
Cheaters	channellock pliers, named so because they make the job easier.
Cheese Head Screw	An old term for a Fillister Head Screw.
Cherry	Plastic insulator to separate guts from the backbox (as in the cabinet that contains a panel).
Cherry Picker	a bucket truck. (Cherries not included).
Chicago Bender	In addressing conduit bending, the NEC requires that “bends in conduits will be made so that the tubing will not be injured and that the internal diameter of the conduit will not be effectively reduced.” The Chicago-Type manual benders accomplish this quickly and reliably. It consists of a carriage to provide firm support, a removable bending frame so the user can work off the carriage or workbench, a 0 to 90degree bending indicator, a short handle and a shoe to accommodate specific conduit sizes. The user puts a piece of rigid pipe into the short handle to gain greater leverage. Shoes come in sizes from 1″ to 2″.
Chicago Grip	See ‘Chicago Grip.’
Chicken Catcher	The service wedge clamp provides a mechanical strain relief for self-supporting drop wire. It gets attached or wedged to the support wire on incoming utility ACSR, Aluminum or AAAC conductors which typically range from #6 to 4/0. This fitting protects the cable from breaking under adverse weather conditions and is a convenient device to support the cable while the drop portion is cut to size. They are available from several suppliers such as Blackburn, Madison, and Porcelain Products with different part numbers depending upon the wire type and size.
Chicken Tracks	Epoxirod tri unit, (see also ‘crows foot’).
Chicken Wing	in distribution construction a steel post insulator standoff, (see also ‘turkey wing’).
Chico	CHICO, like CONDULET, is a registered trademark of Crouse-Hinds. According to Product Line Manager of Fittings, Brad Delans, CHICO comes from their name. C = Crouse, HI for Hinds and CO for company. Sealing compound used for hazardous location fittings. It provides a seal around and between the electrical conductors within the fitting. The sealing compound (cement) comes in package sizes ranging from 8oz to 10lbs and is mixed with water on the job site in the shipping container. As a liquid insulating compound, it is used along with the sealing or packing fiber. The fiber serves to prevent the sealing compound from leaking into the conduit and it put between the wires and the fitting hub before the sealing compound is poured into the fitting. The part numbers for Crouse-Hinds is as follows: A3 = 16oz can, A05 = 80oz can, X4 = 2oz of FIBER and X7 = 16oz of FIBER.
Chili Bowl	an oversized pin-type insulator.
Chinese Finger	Basket type pulling grip where wire mesh tightens over wire when pulled.
Chinese Money	Reducing washers.
Chocolate Bar	Sometimes called a quick connector, this insulation displacement connector is used to tap into electrical wires to draw power without having to cut, splice and tape the wires. The chocolate bar refers to this specific size (14-18 AWG tap on a 10-12 AWG run) but the family of taps is used for everything from automotive wiring, fixtures, marine and control circuits.
Choker	a sling made out of nylon.
Christmas Tree	auxiliary arm extending from a pole that is used to lift conductors.
Circuit	the path of electrical flow from a power source through an outlet and back to ground.
CJ	Used to support nonmetallic sheathed cable (RX) or MC/AC cable on wood or metal studs. Available in 4 styles for Wood, Metal Stud or Furring Strip/Hat Channel. Used to get compliance with NEC for Metal Stud Use.
Clamp Back	a raceway fastening accessory typically used with a conduit strap to position a raceway away from a wall.
CLASS I locations	are those locations in which flammable gases or vapors are or may be present in the air in quantities sufficient to produce explosive or ignitable mixtures.
CLASS II locations	are those locations that are hazardous because of the present combustible dust.
CLASS III locations	are those locations that are hazardous because of the presence of easily ignitable fibres or flyings, but in which the fibres or flyings are not likely to be in suspension in the air in quantities sufficient to produce ignitable mixtures.
Cleat Hanger	see bar hanger.
Clevis Hanger	Used to hang conduit from a strut support.
CLF	acroymn for current limiting fuse.
Climbers	hooks for climbing poles.
Clock Hanger	Electrical plate with recessed outlet to hang and power a wall clock.
Close Nipple	A conduit nipple is a piece of pipe that has been treaded on both ends. The stock length ranges from CLOSE to 12″ long, and the diameter ranges from a nominal 1/2″ to 6″. A CLOSE nipple is a trade term meaning that this nipple is the shortest one available. They are ordered by specifying both length and diameter.
Clum Some	a greenhorn, or new, helper.
CODEGUARD®	RACO trademark for weatherproof cover and Hubbell WRTR device.
Coffin Hoist	a chain hoist of any type.
Cold Chisel	When working with stone and metal, the cold chisel is the right choice. Comes in varying widths and lengths but usually has a flat or mushroomed head for the striking area.
Cold Galvanize	When sprayed on ferrous metal, it prevents it from oxidizing. Composed mainly of zinc is used to galvanize bare metal or to touch-up, hot-dipped galvanized fittings & pipes.
Cold Shrink	Slips over splice, pull-out plastic core, rubber shrinks by 50% to form tight seal.
Cold Shut	When you want to attach something to a chain, the cold shut is an easy way to do it. Slip the cold shut into the chain link and drive it closed with a swift, accurate hammer blow. Next, peen the exposed end flat to guard against the cold shut from opening. When used for chain repair, use a cold shut one size larger than the repairing chain.
Colorado Jim® Cable Support	Used to support nonmetallic sheathed cable (RX) or MC/AC cable on wood or metal studs. Available in 4 styles for Wood, Metal Stud or Furring Strip/Hat Channel. Used to get compliance with NEC for Metal Stud Use.
Combination Box Cover	Cover to adapt 4″ or 5″ boxes to accept a wiring device. Wall plate added later, (see also ‘Square Device Box’; ‘Combination Box Cover’).
Combination Coupling	a coupling device used to join two dissimilar raceways (ie., rigid and flex).
Come-A-Long	a wire grip for holding tension of a conductor or strand. Also spelled cum-a-long.
Coming Up Easy	a phrase meaning pick-up the load or increase tension.
Concentric Knockout	a combination knockout where all the knockouts have the same center (eg., masonry boxes).
Concrete Anchor	Sleeve type heavy-duty anchor that comes with a variety of head types. The installation base does not have to be solid like is necessary for the Wedge Type Anchor. Can be used in concrete, brick, block or stone.
Concrete Box	a box intended for use in concrete and masonry block. It is not intended for installation in a floor.
Concrete Pipe Sleeve	This is an 8-1/2″ deep sleeve put into place by the electrician before the concrete being poured, and it comes in varying widths. After the concrete sets, the conduit is run through the sleeve to run risers from deck to deck. If a pour is deeper than 8-1/2″, then the user will use two or more stacked together to do the job. They are made from slippery plastic and are usually a forest green colour. You would order them in sizes from 1-1/2″ through 6″. A 4″ Crete sleeve would allow a 3″ pipe to fit inside.
Concrete Rings	This is an open-bottomed octagon ring that gets cemented into the building floor (deck) after being nailed to the wood subflooring. Using backplates and covers, it becomes a complete deck box and is available in depths from 2″ to 6″ with knockouts from 1/2″ to 1″. It is called a concrete ring when extending an existing mud box, and it can be called a mud box when it has a backplate and serves as a mud box. A classic mud box, however, comes as one unit with the backplate welded in place.
Concrete-Tight Fitting	a fitting that, when assembled to conduit or tubing of the proper size, excludes concrete aggregate.
Conductor Fill	refers to the number of current carrying and grounding conductors permitted by the National Electrical Code (NEC) to be used in conduit and tubing
Conductor Galloping	When ice or water build-ups, high winds cause high-amplitude, low-frequency oscillation of overhead powerlines.
Conductors	electrical term describing wires capable of carrying an electrical current or wire being used as a ground, usually sheathed with an insulating material.
Conduit	(raceway) a pipe or tube designed to enclose and protect conductors or cables from moisture and physical damage.
Conduit Body	a portion of a conduit or tubing system that provides access through a removable cover(s) to the interior of the system at a junction of two or more sections of the system or at a terminal point of the system.
Conduit Clamp	a fastening clamp used to mount raceways.
Conduit Hanger	The steel conduit hanger is used to secure 1/2″ to 4″ rigid (GAL) or EMT conduit to some support using the hole on top of the hanger. Typically, the pipe is suspended from the strut or directly from the concrete using a piece of the threaded rod . Still, the hanger is also used to attach conduit directly to an insulator or some other surface. Manufactured by Steel City, Erico (Caddy), Bridgeport and others, the hanger is available with or without the lower bolt and nut. Originally invented by Minneralac in 1904 as the Standard Conduit Hanger.
Conduit Spacer	These spacers are typically used in high-rise concrete deck construction, where you pre-situate your conduit, and then pour the concrete around it. When you have two or more pipes coming up through the deck, and you need to make sure they stay in alignment with each other so they will properly match-up with standard knockouts on junction boxes, you use either Eyeglasses or Nail On Deck Plates. They both come in two or three-hole configurations from 1/2″ to 1″ rigid, but the nail-on deck plates have a greater surface area to contact with the wooden deck and are reported to hold the conduit in place better than the typical Eyeglasses.
Conduit Union	Connects two pieces of the threaded rigid conduit when one piece can’t be turned. It comes in aluminium, steel, malleable iron and zinc/die-cast construction in sizes from 1/2″ to 5″ If the same thing needs to be done for non-threaded pipe, you would use a threadless compression coupling.
Condulet	a term used to refer to malleable or aluminum conduit bodies.
Connector	a fitting intended to terminate a cable or raceway into a box, panel, etc.
Cord Grip (CG)	a connector used to terminate flexible cords and cables into an enclosure.
Corn Clamp	The Right Angle Beam Clamp (RC) attaches pipe at a right angle to a beam. Associated products are the Parallel (PC) and Edge (EC) clamp. Comes in sizes from 3/8″ to 4″ conduit.
Corn Cob	thimble adapter pin.
Country Clamp	See ‘Waterpipe Ground Clamp’.
Coupling	a fitting intended to connect two lengths of raceway.
Cowboy	The steel conduit hanger is used to secure 1/2″ to 4″ rigid (GAL) or EMT conduit to some support using the hole on top of the hanger. Typically, the pipe is suspended from the strut or directly from the concrete using a piece of the threaded rod, but the hanger is also used to attach conduit directly to an insulator or some other surface. Manufactured by Steel City, Erico (Caddy), Bridgeport and others, the hanger is available with or without the lower bolt and nut. Originally invented by Minneralac in 1904 as the Standard Conduit Hanger.
Crab	A network crab connector (CRAB) is used in an underground utility hole to connect several large power cables. Typically made from pure copper, they are also available in aluminium and come insulated or bare. Crabs can also be made with fusible joints to provide current limiter protection for all cables in the crab.
Crete Sleeve	This is an 8-1/2″ deep sleeve put into place by the electrician before the concrete being poured, and it comes in varying widths. After the concrete sets, the conduit is run through the sleeve to run risers from deck to deck. If a pour is deeper than 8-1/2″, then the user will use two or more stacked together to do the job. They are made from slippery plastic and are usually a forest green colour. You would order them in sizes from 1-1/2″ through 6″. A 4″ Crete sleeve would allow a 3″ pipe to fit inside.
Crosby Clamp	The “Crosby” wire rope clip is a galvanized fitting used to securely fasten wire rope or guy strand. It is extremely durable. The U bolt goes over the wire and the iron saddle is attached below. Then, the bolts are tightened and the guy wire is locked in place.
Crosby Clip	wire rope guy wire clip.
Crossarm Clevis	Clevis and insulator to deadend service drop. Various sizes.
Crossbar Hanger	An adaptor used to affix a lighting fixture directly to an electric box when the fixture and electrical box mounting holes do not line up, (see also ‘Fixture Bar’).
Crowsfoot	When you want to hang a light fixture on the wall or ceiling and there isn’t a ceiling box in place, the crowsfoot provides a 3/8″ threaded fixture stud to mount to. The 1/2″ stud is also available but not common.
Cube Tap	Converts single receptacle opening to 3 openings in a short cube shaped device. Usually made from soft brown rubber.
Cubefuse™	The CUBEFuse™ is a compact industrial power fuse where all of the components meet IEC 60529 for “finger-safe” compliance. This means that the maintenance personnel have added protection from accidentally touching energized equipment during fuse replacement. From 1 to 60 amp 3 pole 600v configurations.
Current SnifferThese devices detect the presence of voltage without direct contact with the wire. One style (Greenlee 1010 or Fluke 1ACA1) looks like a pen, and you touch the tip to a possible power source such as a wire or outlet, and if the tip glows red, you know there is some level of voltage present. An upgraded version of the Greenlee 1010 Volt Tick called 1112 includes a flashlight. The other style is an audible detector that chirps as you get closer to the load, detects a higher and lower voltage range, detects both hot & neutral, and detects if breakers are powered.
D.A.	Bolt acronym for the double-arming bolt.
Damp Location	partially protected locations such as under canopies or roofed open porches, and interior locations subject to moderate degrees of moisture, such as basements, barns and cold-storage warehouses.
Dead Front Plug	A male dead front plug for 15A 120V.
Dead Man	A multi-bladed anchor set into a hole dug in the earth. It expands to form a cone-shaped square in either 6” or 8” sizes. When covered by the earth, it supports the Anchor Rod through the compression of the earth above it. Reinforcing ribs provide strength to the blades, which are capable of handling extremely heavy loads.
Deadbreak Elbow	A connector that facilitates connecting transformers, switches, sectionalizing cabinets and junctions to underground cables when there is no electrical load (see also ‘Deadbreak Elbow’).
Deck Stand	The FBS is used to secure an electrical box or conduit from moving during a concrete pour. They attach to the floor or concrete forms and adjust up to 8″ and come in 12″, 16″ and 18″ heights. Offered by Caddy® as the FBS, Raco as the 429 and by ARC-CO as the RBSS. The ARC-CO unit comes with a hickey for easier installation to the back knockout of a box, while the Caddy® has a slotted centre suitable for a nut & bolt.
De-Ox	As the goo used in compression and split-bolt connections where the aluminium wire is used, the PENETROX product is an oxide-inhibiting grease designed to create an air-tight and moisture-resistant joint. The goal is to prevent the oxidation or corrosion of the metal products used in the electrical connection. Depending upon the type of metals found in the joint, you would use a specific a version of the product containing suspended particles designed for that metal. Type “A” contains Copper particles and is used for Aluminum to Copper or Aluminium to Conduit (Steel). Type “B” contains Zinc particles and is used where the metals are all aluminium. It has found favour in several industries, such as Ham Radio operators, where the grease acts as a lubricant for threaded connections, reduce the chance of seizing down the road.
Device Cover	A raised device cover is used to adapt a 4″ or 5″ box to accept wiring devices. A finish plate is then put over the device. They come in 1 or 2 gang and a variety of “raise” sizes from flat to 1-1/4″ and are used on drywall or plaster.
Device Ears	ears or tabs with holes spaced to accommodate wiring devices. Device ears are found on plaster rings, switch boxes and handy boxes.
Device Mount	a term commonly used to denote where the screws of a device cover attach.
Diaper	rubber blanket pinned on overhead construction;
Dielectric Grease	Typically though of as the goo used in compression and split-bolt connections where aluminum wire is used, the PENETROX product is an oxide-inhibiting grease designed to create an air-tight and moisture resistant joint. The goal is to prevent the oxidation or corrosion of the metal products used in the electrical connection. Depending upon the type of metals found in the joint, you would use a specific a version of the product containing suspended particles designed for that metal. Type “A” contains Copper particles and is used for Aluminum to Copper or Aluminium to Conduit (Steel). Type “B” contains Zinc particles and is used where the metals are all aluminium. It has found favour in several industries, such as Ham Radio operators, where the grease acts as a lubricant for threaded connections, reduce the chance of seizing down the road.
Dig Pole	a transition pole for going from overhead to underground distribution.
Digging Bar	temporary lifting device, (see also ‘pole buddy’).
Dikes	This essential electrician’s tool comes in various configurations that will cut and strip wire, serve as pliers, crimp wire connectors, hold and clean 5/8″ pole line threaded bolts and more. Electricians, however, use them for things they were not intended for, such as a hammer, pry bar and all-around bolt-cutter.
Disc	an insulator, either dead-end type of suspension type.
Diving Board	Adjustable sliding scaffold board.
Do Nothing	conduit box support bracket
Doco	acronym for drop out cutout which is an open-type cutout.
Dog Bone	EHV yoke plates, name so for their shape;
Dog House	Electric floor mounted surface outlet mounts from a poke-thru.
Dolphin® B	These splices fall into a category called Insulation Displacement Connectors are used exclusively for plain old telephone wires (POTS), alarm and other low voltage circuits. You insert the cables, compress with a linesman pliers (or unique tool), and the metal teeth inside will pierce the insulation and make a permanent connection that is moisture resistant. While the Dolphin is re-distributed by various manufacturers and refers to the round tubular unit, the 3M UR performs a similar job but has a gel to protect the wires.
Donkey Dick	Insulated multi-tap connector, like the IPLD5004.
Donut	Reducing washer to fit a smaller pipe into a conduit entrance.
Doogle Switch	Two switches in a single device.
Door	on enclosed-type cutouts, the door.
Door Switch	Recesses in the jam of a door and closes a circuit when the door opens.
Double Crossbar	An adaptor used to affix a lighting fixture directly to an electric box when the fixture and electrical box mounting holes do not line up, (see also ‘Fixture Bar’).
Double Expansion Shield	A Zinc anchor that sets in masonry by tightening a screw or bolt 1/4-3/4″.
Double Sided Tape	Termed “double sided tape,” this has the sticky stuff on both sides and is used to attach lightweight items that will later be screwed into place. It is more for alignment and ease of final installment than for permanent installation when used in the electrical industry.
Double Thunderloc	A Zinc anchor that sets in masonry by tightening a screw or bolt 1/4-3/4″.
Drag Line	Nylon rope blown, shot, or snaked into conduit to pull wire or a bigger pull line.
Draw Stud	Draws knockout tool punch into the die to punch holes in sheet metal.
Drifter	a lineman who wants to see the world.
Dryer Cord	Pre-molded extension cord for a clothes dryer.
Dryer Receptacle	30amp power receptacle used for clothing driers.
Duplex Receptacle	Electrical outlet device having two plug receptacles.
DURALO®	is a trademark identifying a tricoat protective finish used on iron electrical conduit fittings for standard and hazardous locations.
Dversibit®	Quality bit welded to a long flexible steel shaft to install wire in existing work.
Dynabolt	Sleeve type heavy-duty anchor that comes with a variety of head types. The installation base does not have to be solid like is necessary for the Wedge Type Anchor. Can be used in concrete, brick, block or stone.
E.H.V.	acronym for extra-high voltage.
Eagle Eye	leveling crossarms by sight with no measuring instruments.
Earthquake Clip	Officially called a Lay-In Fixture Support Clip, it is used to support lay-in fixtures to the ceiling grid so they can withstand a shock such as a hurricane or an earthquake.
Ec Clamp	The Edge Beam Clamp (EC) mounts pipe parallel to the beam. Associated products are the Edge (EC) and Right Angle (RC) clamp. Comes in sizes from 1/2″ to 3″ conduit.
Edge Pipe Clamp (Ec)	The Edge Beam Clamp (EC) mounts pipe parallel to the beam. Associated products are the Edge (EC) and Right Angle (RC) clamp. It comes in sizes from 1/2″ to 3.” conduit.
Eels	line hose, temporary cover up.
Egg Breaker	a guy strain insulator.
Egg Sucker	an insulated pole, usually made of fibreglass, used by electric utility workers when engaged in live-line working on energized high-voltage electric power lines to protect them from electric shock (see ‘shotgun stick’).
Eggs	When guy wires are used to support a pole or tower structure, they can act as a lightning rod electrocuting someone who may be touching the wire, then the the design gets hit. To help protect against this, these are used to electrically insulate the lower portion of the guy wire from the upper (see also ‘Guy Strain Insulators’; ‘Goat Head’; ‘Eggs’).
Elbow	a curved section of raceway intended to change the direction of the run.
Elbow Pre-Fab	Conduit elbows are available for EMT, RIGID, PVC COATED GALVANIZED, FIBERGLASS and PVC. The standard elbows come in 90 degree and 45 degree but a wide range of bends and radiuses are available. In general, the customer ordering a PREFAB 45 is looking for a 45 degree elbow and you have to ask what kind of conduit it is being connected to.
Electrical Tape	Inexpensive, black vinyl electrical tape.
Electroplating	a term used to describe the process of electrically depositing a layer of corrosion resistant material (i.e., zinc) onto steel or iron parts.
Elephant Ear	a high-strength strain insulator.
Elephant Ears	the arc chute on certain types of cutouts for extinguishing the arc while breaking a load;
EMT	Electro Metallic Tubing (EMT) is used to protect wires within an electrical system. It is the most commonly used raceway because it can be concealed or surface mounted, it is low cost, light weight and doesn’t require threading tools like rigid. The bending process, however, requires more skill than with rigid because EMT is prone to kink. It is also called “thin-wall” because the wall is much thinner than rigid conduit of the same nominal size. Available from Wheatland, Allied, LTV and others.
End Run	that portion of the branch circuit that extends to the last fixture or device.
Endo	A tie stick.
ENT	Electrical Non-Metallic Tubing (ENT) – a plastic corrugated raceway of circular cross section that is resistant to moisture and chemical atmospheres, and that is flame retardant.
Epdm	acronym for (ethylene propylene diene modified).
Equalizers	a pair of connectors;
Erickson	Connects two pieces of the threaded rigid conduit when one piece can’t be turned. It comes in aluminium, steel, malleable iron and zinc/die-cast construction in sizes from 1/2″ to 5″ If the same thing needs to be done for non-threaded pipe, you would use a threadless compression coupling.
ETL	certification mark for Intertek Testing Services. ITS tests to the standards of UL, CSA and other international standards.
Expanding Anchor	A multi-bladed anchor set into a hole dug in the earth. It expands to form a cone-shaped square in either 6” or 8” sizes. When covered by the earth, it supports the Anchor Rod through the compression of the earth above it. Reinforcing ribs provide strength to the blades, which are capable of handling extremely heavy loads.
Expansion Deflection Coupling	Expansion Deflection couplings (joints) are fittings that allow for 3/4″ movement in any direction between two pieces of Rigid, IMC or PVC conduit. The deflection term comes from its ability to bend up to 30 degrees. They are typically used when the conduit has to withstand vibration from machinery or vehicles. Made by CrouseHinds, OZ Gedney and others, they come in sizes ranging from 1/2″ to 6″.
Expansion Fitting – Coupling	Expansion couplings (joints) are one-piece fittings that allow for longitudinal movement to provide expansion and contraction in a metal conduit system. This may happen for various reasons, such as when a conduit is entering a foundation, from ambient temperature fluctuations, unintended consequences of long conduit runs, or building design requirements. Made by Crouse-Hinds, OZ Gedney, and others, they come in sizes ranging from 1/2″ to 5″ and are available as couplings or connectors. The AX version shown is a coupling for Rigid conduit while the TX is for EMT.
Exposed Work Cover	Attach wiring devices to this and then this attaches to 4/5″ box. Many combos.
Extension Ring	used to extend the box when it is recessed back in a wall. Also provides more cubic inch capacity for the box if needed.
EXTRA DUTY®	a tradename applied to weatherproof while-in-use covers that have passed UL testing and are listed as “Extra Duty”.
Eyeball	visual determination without using tools.
Eyeglasses	These spacers are typically used in high-rise concrete deck construction, where you pre-situate your conduit, and then pour the concrete around it. When you have two or more pipes coming up through the deck, and you need to make sure they stay in alignment with each other so they will properly match-up with standard knockouts on junction boxes, you use either Eyeglasses or Nail On Deck Plates. They both come in two or three-hole configurations from 1/2″ to 1″ rigid, but the nail-on deck plates have a greater surface area to contact with the wooden deck and are reported to hold the conduit in place better than the typical Eyeglasses.
Eyes	Safety glasses.
Ez Anchor	Nylon or Zinc self-drilling anchor used for #8 x 1″ screws into sheetrock, (see also ‘Sure Wall’).
F clips	Holds gem box in sheetrock by offering counter pressure to the box ears.
F Strap	Holds gem box in sheetrock by offering counter pressure to the box ears.
Fan Box	a box that is UL listed for the support of a ceiling (paddle) fan.
Far Side Box Support	This 3-1/4″ accessory attaches to the back of a wall box and supports it by resting between the box and the wall or support behind it. The Raco unit is a plastic device, while the CADDY® J1A35 is a bendable piece of sheet metal.
F-Brackets	Holds gem box in sheetrock by offering counter pressure to the box ears.
F-Clamps	Holds gem box in sheetrock by offering counter pressure to the box ears.
Feed Bag	A tool bag used by lineman , made by Klein Tools.
Female Plug	A female plug attached to portable cord for 15A 120V.
Female Reducer	An adapter used when you have a knockout, or threaded female outlet needs to be reduced to a smaller size conduit. Once installed by threading into a female outlet, it has a female adapter that receives a threaded male fitting of the smaller line. They often come with a hex head which allows easy tightening into the outlet using a wrench. Sizes range from 3/4″ to 1/2″ to 3/4″ to 1/2″. The reverse of this application is the Male Enlarger.
Ferrule Fuse	A cartridge fuse found in amperage sizes 60amp or lower. This group also includes midget, glass and ceramic fuses, except that these fuses are used for electronic devices. If you are asked for a cartridge safety switch, it refers to a 60 or 30amp switch. The item code shown below refers to one type of fuse and isn’t an indication at all of what the customer wants. You need to know amperage, voltage, UL Class, interrupting rating and most importantly, application.
Festoon Socket	Lampholder that uses 12G Circuit Wire to Power & Suspend bulb from the air.
Fiberfill	CHICO, like CONDULET, is a registered trademark of Crouse-Hinds. According to Product Line Manager of Fittings, Brad Delans, CHICO comes from their name. C = Crouse, HI for Hinds and CO for company. The sealing compound used for hazardous location fittings. It provides a seal around and between the electrical conductors within the fitting. The sealing compound (cement) comes in package sizes ranging from 8oz to 10lbs and is mixed with water on the job site in the shipping container. As a liquid insulating compound, it is used along with the sealing or packing fibre. The fibre serves to prevent the sealing compound from leaking into the conduit, and it put between the wires and the fitting hub before the sealing compound is poured into the fitting. The part numbers for Crouse-Hinds is as follows: A3 = 16oz can, A05 = 80oz can, X4 = 2oz of FIBER and X7 = 16oz of FIBER.
Finger Line	10354″ line.
Finger Safe	The CUBEFuse™ is a compact industrial power fuse where all of the components meet IEC 60529 for “finger-safe” compliance. This means that the maintenance personnel have added protection from accidentally touching energized equipment during fuse replacement. From 1 to 60 amp 3 pole 600v configurations.
Finished Walls	studs, furring strips, joists, that are covered with wood paneling, drywall, plaster, Masonite or ceramic are considered finished.
Fire Ring	This is an open-bottomed octagon ring that gets cemented into the building floor (deck) after being nailed to the wood subflooring. Using backplates and covers, it becomes a complete deck box and is available in depths from 2″ to 6″ with knockouts from 1/2″ to 1″. It is called a concrete ring when extending an existing mud box, and it can be called a mud box when it has a backplate and serves as a mud box. A classic mud box, however, comes as one unit with the backplate welded in place.
Fish Bit	Quality bit welded to a long flexible steel shaft to install wire in existing work.
Fish Leader	When fishing tape, it is often beneficial to have the fish tip be flexible to get around sharp bends or ridges created at fitting junctions. The tape leader looks like a tightly coiled spring with an attachment at one end to hold the fish line and a screw at the other to attach to the fish.
Fish Line	Nylon line used during the power fishing phase of cable pulling. It comes in a variety of strength ratings and is often specific to the vendor of the power fishing equipment being used. This line attaches to a conduit piston (mouse), and when the the blower shoots mouse, the fish line goes along and is used to pull back the heavy pulling rope.
Fish Tape	When inserted into a conduit run, it provides a means to attach wires or fish line at one end and pull them out through the other. The flat, spring metal design makes it extremely flexible and capable of navigation through elbows and turns. It is typically sold in 1/8, 3/16 and 1/4″ widths with lengths from 25 to 100′. For convenience, they are also sold within fish dispenser reels to automatically extend and retract the fish tape but most people buy the inexpensive wire fish only and store it in a short piece of Greenfield.
Fish Tape Ball	Swivel ball that attaches to steel fish tape. Prevents wire damage during pull.