FIELD GUIDE • UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2026
EMT Offset Bending Guide
Lay out two-bend offsets with correct spacing, shrink, direction, and start marks.
A two-bend offset moves conduit around an obstruction while keeping the run parallel. First measure the required rise—the perpendicular distance between the original path and the new path. Choose a bend angle that fits the available space and pulling conditions.
Field method
Multiply the rise by the angle multiplier to find the distance between bend marks. Common field multipliers are approximately 6.0 at 10 degrees, 2.6 at 22.5 degrees, 2.0 at 30 degrees, 1.414 at 45 degrees, and 1.155 at 60 degrees.
Mark the first bend location, then measure the calculated spacing for the second mark. Keep both bend arrows oriented consistently so the bends land in the same plane. Account for shrink when the final obstruction location matters; the WireWise calculator shows a planning shrink value.
Common mistakes
Example: a 6-inch offset using 30-degree bends uses a 2.0 multiplier, producing 12 inches between marks. The usual planning shrink is about 1.5 inches, but the actual bender and conduit can vary.
Common mistakes include measuring along the wrong face, reversing the second bend, ignoring shrink, failing to deduct shoe take-up where relevant, and trying to force a steep angle into a pull-sensitive run.
Verify the bender’s markings and manufacturer chart. Larger conduit bent with mechanical or hydraulic equipment requires the actual shoe radius and developed-length information.