What is an electrical metallic conduit (EMT)?
Electric metallic conduit (EMT) has traditionally been used in the electrical industry but is very popular with DIY project enthusiasts. When combined with connectors, these affordable and flexible tubes can be used to build all kinds of structures, like these great examples!
EMT conduit sizes
EMT conduit is generally available in 10’ and 20’ lengths and in 1/2″, 3/4″, 1″, 1 1/4″ and 2″ diameters. The 3/4″ conduits are compatible with tinktube connectors using the AO-SHIM.
Where can EMT conduit be purchased?
EMT conduit can be purchased at all good hardware stores and online stores.
What is a T-connector?
This type of connector is generally used to build all kinds of structures when combined with our 1 1/16” diameter tubes . However, it can also be used with 3/4″ EMT conduit along with the AO-SHIM. Building projects with T-connectors and EMT conduit is very easy!
Find the right connectors for your project
You can create all kinds of unique structures using different tinktube connectors.
First, make a sketch of your project to determine which connectors you’ll need. We sell more than 20 different kinds, like the corner joint set, the pivot tee joint set, the intersection open joint set, and many more!
If you don’t want to complicate your life, you can also use a T-connector.
How do you cut EMT conduit?
The easiest way to cut EMT conduit is to use a single-blade pipe cutter. Simply clamp the tool around the conduit and make a few turns while tightening the screw to keep the blade in contact with the surface of the conduit.
A portable or stationary saw also does the job very well. To clean the inside of the cut tube and remove any sharp edges, use a pipe reamer.
How do you use a T-connector with EMT conduit?
We always recommend using our 1 1/16” diameter tubes for your tinktube projects. On the other hand, you can also use 3/4″ EMT conduit for small and medium-sized projects.
For these projects, you’ll need to use the AO-SHIM adapter. Why? Because the diameter of the EMT conduit is slightly less than that of the tinktube tubes. The adapter helps to insert the electrical conduit properly into the T-connector.
Consider installing the adapter at the exact location of the electrical conduit that will accommodate the AO-SHIM connector. Don’t forget to tighten the connector screws tightly using a 5mm Allen key.
We recommend using a 5/8″ self-tapping metal screw to attach all the parts: the T-connector, the AO-SHIM adapter and the 3/4″ EMT conduit. This will prevent the connectors from slipping apart.
For larger projects, we suggest that you use our 1 1/16” diameter galvanized steel tubes.
What is an alternative to EMT conduit?
While any project can be built with T-connectors and EMT conduit, we strongly recommend that you get your hands on our PT-92-GV tubes. They are 92” long with a diameter of 1 1/16” and are compatible with any tinktube connector. In addition, galvanized tubes have the same industrial look as EMT conduit.
