What is a common consequence of kinking an EMT during bending?

Kinking an Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT) during the bending process leads to an increase in electrical resistance. This occurs because kinking creates a sharp bend or deformation in the metal, which disrupts the uniform cross-sectional area of the tubing. As a result, there can be areas of increased resistance where the metal is no longer able to efficiently conduct electricity. This effect can lead to overheating, potential failures in electrical connections, and safety hazards in the installation.

Kinking does not improve strength because the integrity of the material is compromised; it leads to a weakness that can cause structural failure under stress. Additionally, reduced flexibility might occur as a secondary effect, but the primary concern is really the increased electrical resistance caused by the deformation. Thus, the correct answer highlights the criticality of maintaining the structural integrity and performance of EMT in electrical installations.