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Outlet Boxes
Application
- For use with armored/metal clad cable
Certifications
- UL
Manufacturer Resources
Product Specs
- Product Group:
- Boxes & Enclosures
- Product Material:
- Steel
- Department:
- Electrical
- Product Subgroup:
- Electrical Boxes
- Product Type:
- Outlet Box
Steel City 52171-XP – Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is the difference between the Steel City 52171 X and the 52171-XP?
Only the pigtail. The 52171 X ships without a pigtail; the 52171-XP comes with one. Pick the XP when you want the grounding/fixture pigtail already in the box rather than making that connection yourself in the field.
2) Is there a nonmetallic alternative to the Steel City 52171X outlet box?
Yes. The Steel City 52171X is a steel box. If the job calls for nonmetallic, the Cantex EZ Box is a PVC multi-gang residential outlet box. Note that a steel box with armored cable knockouts and a PVC box are not interchangeable in the same wiring method - the 52171X is built for armored/metal clad cable, while PVC boxes pair with nonmetallic cable or PVC raceway.
3) What outlet box should be used instead of the Steel City 52171X in a wet or outdoor location?
The Steel City 52171X is a steel outlet box knocked out for armored/metal clad cable, intended for dry interior work. For an exposed exterior location, the Mulberry Royal Mountie weatherproof outlet box is a die-cast aluminum 1-gang box, and the Thomas & Betts 2IH3-1 Red-Dot is a 2-gang conduit outlet box with three 1/2 inch hubs for threaded conduit runs.
4) Can the Steel City 52171X be used in a hazardous or classified area?
No. The 52171X is a UL listed steel outlet box for armored/metal clad cable in ordinary locations. Classified areas call for an explosionproof box such as the Appleton GRJ Series explosionproof conduit outlet box in malleable iron, or the Appleton GRJS Series universal explosionproof malleable iron conduit outlet box.
5) Should I use a steel box like the 52171X or a PVC box for residential rough-in?
It depends on the wiring method. The 52171X is steel and prepped for armored/MC cable, which is what you run in most commercial and many multi-family jobs. If you are pulling NM cable in a residential build, a nonmetallic box like the Cantex EZ Series PVC multi-gang residential box is the usual choice.
6) Which box handles a 240V range or dryer circuit rather than the Steel City 52171X?
The Steel City 52171X is a general purpose outlet box with armored cable knockouts. For a dedicated appliance outlet, the Pass and Seymour P242RRD is a thermoplastic range and dryer box built for that specific device, so it is the better fit for that rough-in than a standard outlet box.
7) Is the Appleton GRT75 a substitute for the Steel City 52171X?
Not directly. The Appleton GRT75 is a malleable iron round conduit outlet box, so it terminates threaded conduit, while the Steel City 52171X is a steel box with knockouts for armored/metal clad cable. They serve different wiring methods even though both are metallic outlet boxes.
How fast can I get the Steel City 52171-XP delivered?
Most orders ship the same day from our distribution partners, with quick delivery throughout the
continental
U.S.
Need it urgently? Contact Us for expedited shipping options.
Can I return it if it doesn’t work for me?
Yes—ZenSupply offers a hassle-free return policy. If the product isn’t the right fit,
reach out to our support team for a return authorization or setup a return by following our return instructions.
Does the Steel City 52171-XP come with a warranty?
Absolutely. The Steel City 52171-XP is backed by a manufacturer’s warranty.
For full warranty terms, check the product documentation or Contact Us.
How do I get technical support or installation help for the Steel City 52171-XP?
You can call, text, or email our expert support team for fast answers. We’re here to help with
product
selection,
installation tips, and troubleshooting. Contact Us
Why buy the Steel City 52171-XP from ZenSupply?
ZenSupply makes it easy to get the commercial door hardware you need—fast shipping, expert support,
and
rewards on
every order.
Our team is always ready to help you choose the right product for your project.