Eaton Crouse-Hinds 3-1/2" FMC Squeeze Type Connector
Professional-Grade Zinc Die Cast Construction for Superior Flexible Metal Conduit Connections
The Eaton Crouse-Hinds 3-1/2" FMC Squeeze Type Connector is a premium straight connector engineered for secure flexible metal conduit terminations in commercial and industrial electrical systems. This zinc die cast connector delivers exceptional dimensional stability and corrosion resistance for demanding electrical installations where reliability is critical.
Key Features & Benefits
Superior Material Construction
- Zinc Die Cast Body - Precision casting ensures consistent dimensions and superior thread engagement compared to stamped alternatives
- Corrosion Resistant Finish - Zinc construction provides long-term protection against moisture and environmental exposure
- Non-Insulated Design - Maintains electrical continuity and grounding path through the conduit system
- Professional-Grade Threading - Machined threads provide secure, vibration-resistant connections
Installation Efficiency
- Squeeze-Type Design - Simple compression installation reduces labor time and ensures consistent connections
- Straight Configuration - Direct conduit entry minimizes space requirements in crowded electrical enclosures
- Large 3-1/2" Trade Size - Accommodates high conductor counts for major distribution circuits
- Contractor-Friendly Design - Engineered for quick installation without specialized tools
Code Compliance & Safety
- NEC/CEC Compliant - Meets National Electrical Code and Canadian Electrical Code requirements
- Ordinary Location Rated - Suitable for standard commercial and industrial environments
- Grounding Continuity - Non-insulated design maintains equipment grounding conductor path
- Professional Standards - Manufactured to exceed industry requirements for dimensional accuracy
Technical Specifications
This connector features a 3-1/2" trade size designed specifically for flexible metal conduit (FMC) applications. The zinc die cast construction provides exceptional strength-to-weight ratio while maintaining precise dimensional tolerances. The straight, non-insulated design ensures proper grounding continuity throughout the electrical system. Product dimensions are 7.6" height × 5.8" width × 5.7" depth with a weight of 1.44 pounds, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications while remaining manageable for installation. The squeeze-type connection mechanism provides secure conduit retention without requiring additional hardware.
Installation Process
- Verify conduit end is cut square and deburred to prevent damage to internal conductors
- Insert flexible metal conduit fully into the connector body until it seats against the internal stop
- Position the squeeze mechanism over the conduit insertion point
- Apply compression force to secure the conduit within the connector body
- Thread connector into electrical enclosure or junction box to specified torque
- Verify secure mechanical connection and proper grounding continuity
Applications
Perfect for:
- Commercial Buildings - Office complexes, retail centers, hospitals, and educational facilities
- Industrial Facilities - Manufacturing plants, processing facilities, and heavy industrial applications
- Distribution Panels - Main electrical panels, sub-panels, and load centers requiring large conduit connections
- Motor Control Centers - Equipment connections where flexible conduit provides vibration isolation
- Switchgear Applications - High-capacity electrical distribution systems
- Equipment Connections - HVAC units, pumps, and other mechanical equipment requiring flexible connections
- Renovation Projects - Retrofit installations where flexible routing is advantageous
- Municipal Infrastructure - Schools, government buildings, and public facilities
Flexible Metal Conduit System Benefits
Flexible metal conduit systems excel in applications requiring vibration isolation, thermal expansion accommodation, or complex routing around obstacles. The 3-1/2" trade size accommodates substantial conductor loads while maintaining the flexibility advantages that rigid conduit cannot provide. This makes FMC ideal for equipment connections, retrofit installations, and applications where conduit routing must navigate around existing structural elements or mechanical systems.
Why Choose Zinc Die Cast Construction?
Zinc die casting provides superior dimensional accuracy and consistency compared to other manufacturing methods. This precision ensures reliable thread engagement, proper fit with electrical enclosures, and long-term mechanical integrity. The inherent corrosion resistance of zinc construction extends service life in challenging environments, while the material's strength characteristics provide excellent resistance to mechanical stress and vibration. For electrical professionals who demand reliable performance in critical applications, zinc die cast connectors represent the premium choice for flexible metal conduit terminations.
Manufacturer Resources
Product Specs
- Area Classification:
- Ordinary/Non-Hazardous Locations
- Conduit Type:
- FMC
- Connector Type:
- Straight
- Insulator:
- Non-insulated
- Material:
- Zinc die cast
- Product Height:
- 7.6 in
- Product Length Depth:
- 5.7 in
- Product Weight:
- 1.44 lb
- Product Width:
- 5.8 in
- Standards Type:
- NEC/CEC
- Trade Size:
- 3-1/2"
- Product Type:
- Squeeze Type Connector
- Product Group:
- Electrical Fitting
- Department:
- Electrical
- Product Subgroup:
- Squeeze Type Connector