On 07/12/2010 23:56, Lobster wrote:
I think the time has finally come when I may get to convert the "storage
room" at the end of the garage into a "workshop" as was intended when
the building was erected about 10 years ago. With that in mind I need to
wire up the electrics (there's already a CU there, currently supplying
lighting and a single socket for the garage).

Given the 'workshop' element, I want to fit one ring of surface-mounted
metal-clad sockets (probably these: http://preview.tinyurl.com/2vda3wg)
and was going to use surface-mounted PVC conduit (it's a
single-thickness block-building). Thing is, although I've done plenty of
wiring before I've never used conduit and am not entirely sure how to go
about it: I could really use an on-line how-to-do-it guide but can't
find one - is there such a resource around?

To be honest I have no intention of taking this to Building Control but
still want the work to be up to standard. Is PVC conduit considered
acceptable in this sort of environment?

I've used it for three phase in a factory environment, although I always
bought heavy grade, rather than standard, conduit.

(We're talking a very low-key,
domestic, end-of-garage-type workshop, not one with lots of massive
machine tools etc).

Do you have to use single-core wires; ie, will two 2.5mm2 T&E cables not
fit down a standard 20mm PVC conduit?

It will be a struggle, particularly if you use elbows. I would use 25mm
conduit if I had to run T&E. If you decide to use single core wire, try
to get a trade discount from your local electrical wholesaler - I always
got 65% off list on wire and cable.

....
How do the couplers, male and female adaptors etc work in connecting up
conduit boxes and socket boxes etc?...

Male couplers - push thread into hole in box from outside and do up nut.
Female couplers - put male threaded part through hole from inside and
screw into female part on end of conduit.

Colin Bignell