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Topic: Conduit Banging Noise

User: wire4u73, Location: New York

Asked on: Thursday, March 31, 2011 at 8:25 am EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 3:32 am EDT

Question: I am not sure if this is the right forum or not but here is the question. I have a client that has an existing 10HP motor approximately 150' from the electrical panel every time the motor starts up the conduit makes a banging noise. The owner would like to know what is causing this noise and if there is a solution to make it stop. Any suggestions?

Possible Causes of Banging Conduit



Expansion and Contraction

When the motor starts, it generates heat, which causes the conduit to expand. When the motor stops, the conduit cools and contracts, creating a banging noise.


Loose Conduit

If the conduit is not properly secured, it can vibrate and rattle when the motor starts and stops.

Pipe Resonance

The conduit may have a natural frequency that coincides with the starting or stopping frequency of the motor, causing it to resonate and make a banging noise.


Poorly Supported Conduit

If the conduit is not supported adequately, it may sag and move during motor operation, creating noise.

Possible Solutions



For Expansion and Contraction

Use flexible conduit to accommodate expansion and contraction. Install expansion couplings in the conduit to absorb movement.

For Loose Conduit

Check all conduit connections and tighten any loose ones. Use conduit straps or clamps to secure the conduit firmly.

For Pipe Resonance

Identify the resonant frequency of the conduit and avoid starting or stopping the motor at that frequency. Add weight to the conduit to increase its mass and reduce resonance.

For Poorly Supported Conduit

Provide additional support for the conduit using conduit supports or hangers. Ensure that the supports are securely fastened.

Other Suggestions



Use a soft starter

A soft starter reduces the inrush current when the motor starts, which can help minimize the banging noise.


Install a vibration damper

A vibration damper can be connected to the conduit to absorb and dissipate vibrations.*

Consult an electrician:
A qualified electrician can inspect the system and recommend the best solution for eliminating the noise. Flag for review

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