How Many 12 AWG Wires Fit in PVC Conduit?
Complete NEC-compliant fill chart for 12 AWG THHN wires in Schedule 40 PVC (PVC) conduit. Maximum wire counts for all standard conduit sizes.
Quick Answer
For 12 AWG THHN wires in PVC conduit at 40% fill (3+ wires):
- • 1/2" PVC: 8 wires
- • 3/4" PVC: 15 wires
- • 1" PVC: 25 wires
12 AWG in PVC Conduit Fill Chart
| Conduit Size | Max Wires (40% Fill) | Fill % | Max Wires (Nipple 60%) | Fill % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/2" | 8 | 37% | 12 | 56% |
| 3/4" | 15 | 39% | 22 | 58% |
| 1" | 25 | 40% | 37 | 59% |
| 1-1/4" | 43 | 40% | 64 | 60% |
| 1-1/2" | 59 | 40% | 89 | 60% |
| 2" | 98 | 40% | 148 | 60% |
| 2-1/2" | 164 | 40% | 246 | 60% |
| 3" | 261 | 40% | 391 | 60% |
| 3-1/2" | 341 | 40% | 512 | 60% |
| 4" | 430 | 40% | 645 | 60% |
Understanding the Fill Chart
According to NEC (National Electrical Code) Chapter 9, Table 1, the maximum conduit fill percentage depends on the number of conductors:
- 1 conductor: 53% fill maximum
- 2 conductors: 31% fill maximum
- 3 or more conductors: 40% fill maximum
- Nipples (24" or less): 60% fill maximum
This chart shows the maximum number of 12 AWG THHN conductors that can fit in each PVC conduit size while maintaining NEC compliance.
Calculation Example
Question: How many 12 AWG THHN wires can fit in 3/4" PVC conduit?
Wire area: 0.0133 sq in per conductor
Conduit internal area: 0.508 sq in
Allowable fill (40%): 0.2032 sq in
Maximum wires: 0.2032 ÷ 0.0133 = 15 wires
Answer: You can fit up to 15 wires of 12 AWG THHN in 3/4" PVC conduit.