When surface mounting EMT and making 30° offsets, what is the most degrees of saddles allowed for quick bends due to NEC® limitations?

In the context of surface mounting electrical metallic tubing (EMT) and creating offsets, the National Electrical Code (NEC) stipulates certain restrictions on the use of saddles for quick bends. When making a 30-degree offset, the NEC indicates that you can use saddles to facilitate this bend.

The answer indicating "I or II only" is correct because it highlights that there are limitations on how many saddles can be employed to ensure compliance with NEC guidelines, focusing specifically on the angles allowed when constructing quick bends. The reason for this limitation is to maintain both the structural integrity of the conduit and to ensure safety and effective electrical performance. Using too many saddles or incorrect angles may lead to kinked or improperly aligned conduits, which could pose risks such as overheating or damage to the wiring.

In contrast, the inclusion of a broader choice like "I or II or III" would imply that more saddles are permissible, which is not aligned with NEC standards that emphasize safety and efficacy in electrical installations. The restriction supports the best practices for continuity of electrical conductors and minimizes complications during installation and maintenance.