Conduit sealing fittings — EYS fittings — prevent flame propagation through conduit systems connected to explosion-proof camera enclosures. NEC 501.15 requires seals within 18 inches of every explosion-proof enclosure for conduit 3/4 in. and larger. A properly installed conduit seal filled with Chico A compound creates a gas-tight barrier that stops flame and prevents pressure buildup from traveling through conduit to other equipment.
EYS Fitting Selection Guide by Conduit Trade Size
| Conduit Size | Crouse-Hinds EYS | Appleton EY | Min Fill Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/2 in. | EYS12 | EY12 | 1/2 in. |
| 3/4 in. | EYS17 | EY17 | 1/2 in. |
| 1 in. | EYS22 | EY22 | 3/4 in. |
| 1-1/4 in. | EYS27 | EY27 | 1 in. |
| 1-1/2 in. | EYS32 | EY32 | 1 in. |
| 2 in. | EYS42 | EY42 | 1-1/4 in. |
| 2-1/2 in. | EYS53 | EY53 | 1-1/2 in. |
| 3 in. | EYS63 | EY63 | 2 in. |
Step-by-Step EYS Seal Installation
- Select correct fitting: Choose EYS for standard; EYD (drain-type) for outdoor or wet locations.
- Install within 18 inches: Thread EYS onto conduit within 18 inches of the explosion-proof enclosure. No fittings between seal and enclosure.
- Pack fiber dam: Insert Chico X fiber loosely to conduit-diameter depth inside the fitting body — prevents liquid Chico A from flowing into conduit.
- Mix Chico A: Mix powder with water at manufacturer ratio. Use within 5 minutes of mixing.
- Fill completely: Pour Chico A into the fitting to the minimum fill depth with no voids.
- Allow 24-hour cure: Do not energize or stress the fitting during curing at 70 deg F.
- Install fill plug: Thread and tighten the fill plug to complete the explosion-proof rating.
Common Installation Mistakes
The four most common conduit seal violations found by inspectors: (1) installing a coupling between the EYS seal and the explosion-proof enclosure — NEC 501.15 prohibits any fitting in this space; (2) insufficient Chico A fill depth leaving voids; (3) omitting the fiber dam, causing Chico A to distribute throughout the conduit run; (4) using non-listed sealing compound instead of Chico A or equivalent listed material.
See also: NEC Article 501 Wiring Guide | Grounding and Bonding Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum distance an EYS seal can be from an explosion-proof enclosure?
NEC 501.15(A)(1) requires the seal within 18 inches of the explosion-proof enclosure for conduit 3/4 in. and larger. No fitting of any type may be installed between the seal and the enclosure. For conduit smaller than 3/4 in., a seal is still required as close as practicable.
What is Chico X fiber dam material used for?
Chico X fiber is packed into the conduit end inside the EYS fitting before adding Chico A compound. The fiber creates a physical barrier preventing liquid Chico A from flowing into the conduit run. Without the fiber dam, compound distributes throughout the conduit rather than forming a localized seal.
Can EYS fittings be used in Division 2 as well as Division 1?
Yes. EYS fittings listed for Class I Division 1 Groups A-D are acceptable in Division 2 locations as well. Division 1 listed fittings satisfy Division 2 requirements. Division 2 requires seals only at boundaries between classified and unclassified areas, not within 18 inches of every enclosure.
How long does Chico A take to cure?
Approximately 24 hours at 70 deg F (21 deg C). At 40 deg F, allow 48-72 hours. Use Chico FS (freeze-resistant) compound for cold weather installations below 32 deg F.
What is the difference between EYS and EYD fittings?
EYD includes a 1/4 in. NPT drain plug at the bottom for draining moisture from the conduit. Both have identical sealing function and UL listing. EYD is recommended for outdoor, below-grade, or wet locations.
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Standards References: IECEx International Certification Scheme · OSHA Hazardous Work Environments
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A practical field rule for conduit seal installation: always fill and allow EYS sealing compound to cure before pulling wire through adjacent unsealed sections. Sealing compound shrinks slightly as it cures — verify fill level after 24 hours and top up if needed to maintain the full duct-seal depth required by the fitting manufacturer.
Related Resources
- NEC Article 501 Wiring Methods for Explosion-Proof Cameras
- Explosion-Proof Camera Installation Requirements
- Explosion-Proof Camera System Commissioning: FAT and SAT
- Browse Explosion-Proof Cameras
- Browse Explosion-Proof Camera Housings
About the Author
Daniel Fernandez
Daniel Fernandez is a hazardous area security systems specialist with over a decade of experience specifying ATEX, IECEx, UL Class I Division 1, and cUL certified surveillance equipment for oil and gas, chemical, mining, pharmaceutical, and offshore environments. He holds expertise in NEC and IEC area classification standards and has consulted on explosion-proof camera system designs across North America, Europe, and the Middle East.