Your foreman's statement of "if it fits in the conduit then it fits in the LB" is incorrect and potentially dangerous. It's a common misconception that can lead to overheating, insulation damage, and even fires. We need to look at several factors to determine if what you did was legal.Here's a breakdown of the relevant code requirements (referencing the NEC - National Electrical Code)

1. Conduit Fill (Conduit Body Markings and NEC 314.16)
The Conduit Body Markings

The marking of "3 #2 AWG MAX" means exactly that. The conduit body (LB) is only listed for a maximum of three #2 AWG conductors.

2. Volume and Conductor Fill (NEC 314.16(C)(1)) Box Fill Calculations

The LB has a volume of 33 cubic inches. We need to calculate the volume occupied by your conductors and grounding conductor. Each #2 AWG conductor requires 0.2673 cubic inches of volume (NEC Chapter 9, Table 5A) Each #8 AWG conductor requires 0.0886 cubic inches of volume (NEC Chapter 9, Table 5A) Total Volume Required: (3 x 0.2673) + (1 x 0.0886) = 0.8019 + 0.0886 =

0.8905 cubic inches Conduit Body Marking vs. Actual Fill

The NEC permits the use of conduit bodies where the marking specifies the maximum number and size of conductors.

In your case, the LB was clearly marked "3 #2 AWG MAX", therefore you are in violation of NEC code.3. LB Installation and Use (NEC 314.16(C)(1) exception) Conduit bodies are only permitted to have splices, taps or extensions of conductors when marked with their cubic inch volume. Conduit bodies are only permitted to have splices, taps or extensions of conductors when they are marked with the maximum number and size of conductors permitted. Based on the marking "3 #2 AWG MAX" on your LB, splices, taps, and extensions of conductors are not permitted. Therefore, based on this factor, the installation is fine if you are not splicing, tapping, or extending the conductors within the LB.Conclusion

Based on the conduit body being marked with "3 #2 AWG MAX",

the installation is in violation of NEC code.

Your foreman is mistaken. The marking of "3 #2 AWG MAX" on the conduit body overrides any assumption that "if it fits, it's okay."It is important to consult the actual NEC edition being enforced in your jurisdiction.

Recommendations


Replace the LB

The correct solution is to replace the LB with one that is specifically listed and rated for (3) #2 AWG conductors and (1) #8 AWG EGC. This means finding an LB that has both sufficient cubic inch capacity and is listed for that specific conductor configuration.2.

Use a Larger Conduit Body

If you can't find an LB listed* for that specific configuration, you may need to use a larger conduit body that meets the cubic inch requirements as per NEC 314.16(C)(1).

Important Safety Note: Overfilling conduits and boxes can lead to overheating, insulation damage, and increase the risk of electrical fires. Always adhere to NEC guidelines and use properly sized components for your installations. Flag for review