Can flexible metal conduit serve as an equipment bonding jumper or grounding conductor in certain conditions?

Flexible metal conduit, when properly installed and used in compliance with National Electrical Code (NEC) and relevant regulations, is not typically considered an appropriate choice for an equipment bonding jumper or grounding conductor. This is primarily because flexible metal conduit lacks the necessary structural integrity and conductivity characteristics required to serve as an effective grounding or bonding means under all circumstances.

For an effective grounding conductor, the material needs to have a reliable electrical connection that can withstand fault currents without breaking or becoming disengaged, which flexible metal conduit may not always guarantee. It is designed mainly for protection of conductors and not specifically for grounding applications.

While bonding jumpers and grounding conductors must meet specific criteria regarding size, type, and installation, flexible metal conduit does not conform to these requirements under standard conditions. As a result, its use as a bonding or grounding means is generally not acceptable.