Can the installation shown in Figure 208.1, where the box is only supported by conduits, be permitted by NEC®?

The installation of a box that is only supported by conduits is generally not permitted by the National Electrical Code (NEC®). The code requires that electrical boxes must be adequately supported to ensure safety and reliability in electrical systems. When a box is solely dependent on conduits for support, it might not provide sufficient stability, particularly in situations where the electrical connections may experience stress due to movement, thermal expansion, or weight loading.

The NEC has specific requirements for the support of boxes which state that they need to be secured independently from conduits if they do not meet certain support criteria. While conduits can help support boxes under specific conditions, such as where the box is also attached to a structural member or if it's a type of conduit that provides adequate mechanical strength, relying solely on them is generally not compliant.

Understanding these safety requirements is vital for proper installation practices and ensuring that all electrical components are securely mounted, which is critical to prevent accidents, electrocution, or other hazards that can arise from improperly supported electrical installations.