Hi,
You can run 4"X4" wood blocks along the ground and support PVC from that. You will need to space the supports so that the conduit does not sag, this means closer than the code calls for...like every 3 or four feet depending on the size...see table 352.30(B). Caddy makes supports for this purpose...they are made from some kind of plastic material. I saw them at a demonstaration they gave. See
http://www.erico.com/products/PipePier.asp This method is used all the time on rooftops and is acceptable above ground as long as it is installed correctly. I know of no article that prohibits running conduit on a pier.
Set the 4X4's down on the ground or stick them in the ground a foot or two. then support the pipe from that.
Have you never seen a pipe on a fence or rooftop or pipe rack?
There is nothing in the code that says a pipe can not be run above ground!...that I know of.. i am sure this will stir up a ruckus! I see pipes all the time run on the ground. Tank farms, oil fields, farms, a lot of places. i would not recommend it for long term use unless you know the conduit is not subject to physical damage! If so your bound to raise it up or bury it. The structure is the key...Install the post vertical or horizontal but they must be on a support and NOT laid on the ground.
You can even use UF cable overhead as long as it is sunlight resistant and supported as required in art 396!
Problem solved!
Hope that helps.
-regards
MUSTANG
[This message has been edited by mustangelectric (edited 12-08-2004).]
[This message has been edited by mustangelectric (edited 12-08-2004).]
