What Are Rigid Nipples? A Quick Guide for Electricians and Contractors

Discover everything you need to know about rigid nipples—what they are, where they’re used, sizing options, and what Sonic Electric offers. Ideal for electricians, contractors, and commercial projects.

When it comes to commercial and industrial electrical installations, rigid nipples play a small but critical role in ensuring your job is done safely and efficiently. If you're not already using them—or not sure which type to order—this guide breaks it all down for you.

What Is a Rigid Nipple?

A rigid nipple is a short piece of threaded rigid metal conduit (RMC) used to connect two enclosures, boxes, or fittings. Typically made from galvanized steel, these nipples are designed to provide a continuous, grounded raceway for electrical wiring.

They’re often used to extend a box connection or bridge a gap between two electrical components where a full conduit run isn't needed.

Applications: Where Are Rigid Nipples Used?

Rigid nipples are used in:

• Panelboard and Junction Box Installations

• Service Entrances

• Industrial Control Panels

• Motor Control Centers

• Outdoor Enclosures and Weatherproof Applications

They’re especially useful when connecting metal boxes side by side or creating offsets where exact spacing is required. Their rigidity offers mechanical protection and grounding continuity, making them essential in heavy-duty or exposed installations.

Available Sizes: Lengths and Diameters

Rigid nipples are available in a wide range of diameters and lengths to meet NEC code requirements and field conditions. At Sonic Electric, we stock:

Diameters:

• 1/2"

• 3/4"

• 1"

• 1-1/4"

• 1-1/2"

• 2"

• 2-1/2"

• 3"

• 3-1/2"

• 4"

Standard Lengths:

• 2"

• 3"

• 4"

• 6"

• 8"

• 10"

• 12"

Custom lengths may also be available upon request.

All nipples come with NPT threads on both ends, compliant with ANSI and NEC standards.

Who Uses Rigid Nipples?

Rigid nipples are used by:

• Electrical Contractors

• Commercial Electricians

• Maintenance Crews

• Panel Builders

• OEMs and Fabricators

Anyone performing commercial or industrial-grade wiring where protection and code compliance are key will use rigid nipples regularly.

What You’ll Find at Sonic Electric

At Sonic Electric, we stock a wide variety of UL-listed rigid nipples in both steel and aluminum. Whether you’re picking up a single part for a quick fix or outfitting a large-scale commercial build, we have what you need—in stock and ready to ship.

✔ Competitive pricing
✔ Fast local delivery options
✔ Bulk quantities available
✔ Expert customer support

Need something specific? Call us or stop by our warehouse in Los Angeles—we’re happy to help you find the right part.

Why Rigid Nipples Matter

Rigid nipples provide:

• Code-compliant grounding

• Physical protection for conductors

• Seamless box-to-box transitions

• Reduced labor time versus full conduit runs

They’re a small part that makes a big difference on the jobsite—helping contractors build faster, safer, and cleaner electrical systems.

Ready to Order?

Head over to SonicElectric.com to browse our selection of rigid nipples and other essential fittings. Or call our sales team for volume pricing and special requests.