Umair Gaines
Electrical conduit is a raceway that houses and protects electrical wires within a building or structure. It is used to protect wires and cables in exposed locations such as along exterior walls, unfinished areas like basements, and in surface-mounted installations outdoors. Conduits can be metallic or non-metallic, with the former being made of materials such as stainless steel, aluminium, or galvanized rigid steel, and the latter from materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide, polypropylene, and polyurethane. The choice between the two depends on the specific requirements of the application, with factors such as weight, corrosion resistance, fire resistance, and cost playing a role in the decision-making process.
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What You'll Learn
Metallic and non-metallic conduits
Electrical conduits are available in metallic and non-metallic varieties, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The type of conduit to be used depends on the specific requirements of the application.
Metallic Conduit
Metallic conduits are usually made of aluminum, stainless steel, bronze, brass, or galvanized steel. They are strong, durable, and ideal for applications requiring mechanical protection for wiring. Metallic conduits are also excellent for industrial applications, such as protecting wiring on railway lines and cables in walls and floors. They are also suitable for exposed cables along building walls, attics, and outdoor areas. They are also fireproof and can safely transport electric power. Metallic conduits are, however, more expensive and subject to corrosion. They are also heavier and may require more intricate tools and specialized skills for manufacturing.
Non-Metallic Conduit
Non-metallic conduits are made of materials like polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide, polypropylene, polyurethane, or plastic. They are less expensive, more flexible, and lighter in weight than metallic conduits, making them easier to install and route through tight spaces. They can be used for fixture whips, data centres, electric signs, outdoor lighting, HVAC, pools, and spas. They are also suitable for underground cable insulation in irrigation systems and building surfaces. Non-metallic conduits are not as strong or durable as metallic conduits and may not provide the same level of mechanical protection. They are also not rated for high or low-temperature extremes and cannot be installed in plenum environments due to their flammability.
Similarities
Both metallic and non-metallic conduits are designed to protect and route electrical wiring. They are suitable for use in domestic, commercial, and industrial buildings and structures. They can also both protect electrical wiring in various applications like heating, outdoor lighting, and underground cabling. They are also both resistant to corrosion and can prevent electrical fires.
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Rigid vs. flexible tubing
Electrical conduit is available in both rigid and flexible forms. It is used to protect wires and cables that are outdoors or exposed, as well as in unfinished areas like basements, crawl spaces, and attics.
Rigid conduit, also known as rigid metal conduit (RMC), is made from steel and is a durable tubing system that offers exceptional protection for electrical wiring. It is heavy-duty galvanized steel tubing installed with threaded fittings. It is typically used in industrial, outdoor, and commercial settings where wiring needs to be well-protected and secure. It is also used to provide structural support for electrical cables, panels, and other equipment. RMC provides excellent protection against weather conditions and physical impacts, making it ideal for outdoor wiring projects.
Flexible conduit systems, on the other hand, are used when flexibility is required to make connections and where the installation may be subjected to shock and vibration. They are often made of plastic or metal and are commonly used for short runs in exposed locations, such as wiring for garbage disposals and water heaters. Flexible metal conduit (FMT) has a spiral construction, which allows it to bend easily, simplifying installation in walls or other structures.
In terms of safety, rigid conduit is known for its durability, fire resistance, and superior protection capabilities. It is non-combustible, adding an extra layer of safety in case of a fire. It also provides protection from flammable gases and vapors in hazardous environments. Flexible conduit systems now offer dedicated High-Temperature (HT) solutions, ranging from -60°C to +150°C.
Both rigid and flexible conduit systems carry Ingress Ratings that meet UL, CSA, NEMA, and IEC IP ratings, ensuring compliance with dust-tight, liquid-tight, rain-tight, and temporary submersion requirements.
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Grounding boxes
Electrical conduit is a type of pipe, either metal or plastic, that is used to protect electrical wires. It is used in exposed locations, unfinished areas, and surface-mounted installations outdoors. Conduit can be either rigid or flexible, with rigid conduit offering solid protection and flexible conduit allowing for bends and twists without the use of extra hardware.
Metal Boxes
Metal boxes are commonly used with metal conduits and can be grounded using a metal grounding screw or a ground clip. The grounding screw method involves inserting a green grounding screw into the threaded hole in the back of the box, to which the equipment-grounding wires are then connected. This makes the metal box a part of the grounding system. An alternative method is to use a ground clip, which is an approved piece of hardware that slides onto the edge of the metal box and anchors the equipment-grounding conductor tightly against the metal.
Plastic Boxes
Plastic boxes cannot be grounded in the same way as metal boxes. However, it is still necessary to bring the equipment-grounding conductor into the enclosure to ground devices such as switches and receptacles. This is done by connecting the bare or green wire directly to the green screw on the device. If another cable exits the box to feed downstream devices, a pigtail connection is made to the equipment-grounding conductors in both cables, which are then attached to the grounding screw.
It is important to note that local electrical codes and regulations may vary, and it is always recommended to consult with a licensed electrician for any electrical work.
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Wiring to use
Conduits are protective casings for electrical wires and are available in both rigid and flexible forms. They are typically made of metal or plastic and are used in exposed locations such as along the exterior surface of a wall, unfinished areas like basements, crawl spaces, and attics, and in surface-mounted installations outdoors.
The type of wiring used in electrical conduits depends on the specific application and local regulations. In Chicago, for example, the building codes require the use of metal conduits and boxes for all electrical wiring, even for low-voltage work.
The two main types of metallic conduits are rigid and flexible:
- Rigid metallic conduits, such as Electrical Metallic Conduit (EMT) and Intermediate Metallic Conduit (IMC), offer solid protection and are commonly used in commercial and industrial applications. EMT, made of galvanized steel or aluminum, is lightweight and easy to bend with a conduit bender, making it suitable for indoor wiring. IMC has a thicker galvanized wall, making it suitable for outdoor use.
- Flexible metal conduits, such as Flexible Metal Conduit (FMT) and Liquid-tight Flexible Metal Conduit (LFMC), allow for bends and twists without the need for extra hardware. FMT, with its spiral construction, is often used for short runs in exposed locations, such as wiring for garbage disposals and water heaters. LFMC, with sealed fittings and a plastic coating, is used in wet areas and for outdoor equipment like air conditioners.
Non-metallic conduits, typically made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), are also available in rigid and flexible forms. Blue electrical non-metal tubing (ENT) is for indoor use only, while outdoor flexible non-metallic tubing is strong, watertight, non-corrosive, and lightweight. It is important to run a ground wire when using PVC conduit to ensure safety.
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Why use conduit
Conduit is a channel, pipe, or passage through which something else is conveyed. In the context of electrical systems, a conduit is a metal or plastic pipe through which electrical wires are run.
Electrical conduits are used to protect wires and cables, particularly in exposed locations such as along the exterior surface of a wall, unfinished areas like basements, crawl spaces, and attics, and in surface-mounted installations outdoors. Conduits can also be used indoors, for instance, in straight runs of wire or cable through an attic, garage, basement, or crawl space.
There are several reasons why using a conduit is beneficial. Firstly, it provides excellent protection for enclosed conductors from impact, moisture, and chemical vapors. Conduits can also prevent the flow of flammable gases and vapors, providing protection from fire and explosion hazards in areas handling volatile substances. Additionally, conduits can be used to shield sensitive circuits from electromagnetic interference and prevent the emission of such interference from enclosed power cables. Conduits also simplify design and construction by allowing multiple conductors to be pulled through, eliminating the need for multiple runs of cables or customized composite cables. Furthermore, they make future wiring changes safer and simpler, as existing conductors can be withdrawn and new ones installed with minimal disruption.
Conduits come in various types, including rigid and flexible forms, and the choice between them depends on the specific application. For example, rigid conduits offer solid protection, while flexible conduits allow for bends and twists without the need for extra hardware. The type of conduit used may also depend on local regulations and building codes, as some jurisdictions, such as Chicago, require the use of conduits for all electrical wiring.
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Frequently asked questions
No, electrical conduits can be made of metal or plastic.
Metal conduits are sturdy and reliable, making them perfect for protecting electrical wiring in aerospace and automotive equipment. They are also fireproof and can transport electric power safely to the source.
Plastic conduits are versatile and perfect for commercial and residential applications like underground cable insulation in irrigation systems and building surfaces. They are also lighter, cheaper, and easier to manufacture than metal conduits.
The material you choose depends on the specific requirements in your area. Metal conduits are excellent for industrial applications and extreme weather conditions, whereas plastic conduits are more suitable for commercial and residential applications.
