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Different kinds of electrical wiring conduits are available. Each type has specific features and applications. The following list includes the most common types found in residential and commercial structures.
Steel or aluminum are usually used to construct rigid metal conduits. They provide the best protection against physical wire damage. RMC is watertight, flame-resistant, and ideal for long runs in exposed areas.
Conduit made of lightweight steel is known as intermediate metal conduit. It offers a better balance between strength and weight when compared to rigid metal conduits. IMC is less expensive to install and well-suited for the most challenging industrial conditions.
Also known as thin-walled conduit, electrical metallic tubing is made from galvanized steel. EMT is light, bends easily by hand or with simple tools, and is cost-effective. It offers basic protection against wire damage in indoor, dry, and non-hazardous areas.
PVC conduit is manufactured from non-metallic plastic polymer. It is lightweight, inexpensive, and resistant to moisture, chemicals, and corrosion. PVC is good for underground or outdoor applications where exposure to water and chemicals is possible.
FRP conduit is constructed from fiberglass and resin. It is significantly stronger than PVC and resistant to many harsh chemicals. This conduit is lightweight, non-conductive, and corrosion-resistant. It is ideal for extremely aggressive chemical environments.
When choosing the right electrical wiring conduit, several factors should be considered. These include the environment, application, and local code requirements. By properly assessing these factors, the conduit can be installed correctly and easily adjusted to different situations.
This is the first consideration when selecting an electrical wiring conduit. The materials and thicknesses of various kinds of conduit differ. The most preferred are rigid metal conduits for businesses. PVC and EMT are the most popular conduits for simple electrical installations. FRP conduits suit applications requiring long durability against chemicals.
The installation area plays a big role in selecting an electrical wiring conduit. Underground and outdoor areas require waterproof and corrosion-proof conduit. PVC or rigid non-metallic conduit would suit these conditions. Indoor areas in a protected environment generally use EMT or IMC, which are lightweight.
If the installation area has obstructions, many bends must be made, or limited space is available. Then, flexible conduit or flexible metal conduit (FMC) would be the best choice. They simplify the installation process by allowing easier bends without special tools.
The National Electrical Code (NEC) prescribes the legal and technical standards for conduit installations in the United States. These codes determine the kind of circuit used and how it is installed. Although possibly differing from NEC, local codes must always be followed. Ideally, the conduit suppliers will have knowledge of these codes and ensure compliance.
Costs must be considered when choosing the electrical wiring conduit. PVC and EMT are the most cost-effective options to purchase and install. Rigid and IMC mediums are more expensive due to their long service life. Therefore, the total cost of the whole project should weigh the conduit type selection.
Electrical wiring conduits need to be correctly installed to protect the wires they house adequately. Each type of conduit has installation-related properties. Therefore, understanding several fundamental principles guarantees proper installation and use.
This is a first-step installation that involves creating a layout for the conduit run. The planner has to determine the materials required and the amount needed before beginning the installation process. It will ensure that all items are available without delay. One factor that must be considered is the space between bends and the conduit length.
Employing the right tools for cutting the conduit guarantees a smooth edge. A reamer or file should deburr the cut ends. They ensure there are no sharp edges that could damage the wiring. All local codes require that the conduit length be as accurate as possible.
Bending is sometimes required to make the conduit run match the installation plan. Special conduit benders are used here, as improper bends can create huge problems for the installing team. Tight bends can damage the wire and are therefore not acceptable. No bend angle should exceed 90 degrees.
The mounting and securing of the conduit follow after bending. Conduit straps or hangers secure it to walls, ceilings, or floors. They ensure it remains in position during wiring installation. The mounting height and spacing have to comply with local electrical codes.
Pulling the wire through the conduit follows after the conduit is installed. Larger conduit requires the use of a fish tape to pull the wire through. The fish tape would not be used on smaller conduit sizes, as wires can be pulled through by hand. For pull boxes, junction boxes, or fittings, ensure all runs have a maximum of 5 feet without bending.
Maintenance is critical to ensure that electrical wiring conduits last longer than intended. It also ensures that they continue providing protection for the electrical wires in a building. With that said, here are several maintenance and inspection recommendations for common types of electric conduits.
Conduct regular visual inspections of the exposed metal or plastic conduit. Look for signs of wear, damage, rust, or corrosion. Check for loose, missing, or damaged parts of the conduit system. Regular preventive maintenance will help identify potential issues before they become major problems.
If emt conduit or other metals like rigid, intermediately, and flexible metals are used, regular maintenance should focus on preventing rust and corrosion. This should include applying paint or anti-rust compounds to damaged areas where water or moisture could be coming in. Corroded conduit must be inspected thoroughly for structural integrity. If it is not strong enough, it should be replaced immediately.
Plastic conduit like PVC is generally low-maintenance. This is because it does not need cleaning from corrosion or rust. However, the outer surface should be cleaned occasionally to remove dirt, debris, or chemicals that may affect it over time. Use mild soap and water to clean the surface. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the conduit.
Heat can cause damage to some metal varieties of conductor pipes, such as flexible metal conduits. This heat could be from electrical devices, machinery, or exposure to direct sunlight. This damage must be examined thoroughly. If signs like warping, discoloration, and brittleness are evident, then they must be replaced.
To improve the longevity of the conduit, install and keep conduit seals at openings and closures. They will prevent moisture, dust, and debris from entering and help keep the internal wiring in a safer and working condition. With that said, ensure all seals are intact and replace them when worn out. Seals can be purchased at electrical parts home depot.
A1.It is a pipe that protects and directs electrical conductors. It is made of various materials and shaped into a cylindrical tube. Cables and wires carrying the electrical current are housed by the conduit. The conduit prevents electrical wiring from coming into direct contact with external elements. It also protects both the wires and the environment from possible hazards and damages.
A2.Conduits provide physical protection against mechanical damage or other hazards to the electrical wiring. They help organize and support the wiring system within a facility, keeping the cables neat and easy to follow. Conduits improve safety by reducing the risk of electrical fires resulting from exposed wires. They ensure longer durability of electrical wiring.
A3.Since conduit wiring is hard to install, it often requires professional installation expertise. It increases labor costs and installation time. It could also be relatively expensive to purchase, especially rigid varieties. Less flexibility is the last drawback. The conduits provide less flexibility to wiring systems. This makes changes or expansions to electrical systems more difficult.
A4.Thanks to their flexibility and ease of installation, flexible metal conduit (FMC) is ideal for space-constrained or temporary applications. They allow for bending and shaping without specialized tools. This makes them versatile in adjusting to different installation scenarios.
