Beatrice Lang
A raceway is a type of electrical conduit that is used to protect and route electrical wiring in a building or structure. Raceways are typically made of metal or plastic and are used to protect wires and cables from damage, heat, corrosion, humidity, water, and other kinds of threats. They are essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of any electrical system and are commonly used in both residential and commercial buildings. Raceways can be buried underground or installed on surfaces like walls. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be made from different materials, including galvanized steel, aluminum, plastic, and fiberglass.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | A raceway is a protective channel that forms a physical pathway for electrical wiring. |
| Types | Metallic and non-metallic conduits, sheet-metal wire-ways, rigid galvanized steel, non-metallic conduit or PVC, flexible metal conduits, electrical tubing, and more. |
| Function | Protects wires and cables from heat, humidity, corrosion, water intrusion, physical damage, and other threats. |
| Installation | Installed according to the National Electrical Code (NEC) to ensure safety and compliance. |
| Usage | Commonly used in construction and electrical projects, especially in commercial and residential buildings. |
| Materials | Metal, plastic, and fiberglass. |
| Benefits | Provides a safe, efficient, and organized way to install and maintain electrical wiring. |
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What You'll Learn
Types of Raceway Systems
A raceway is a crucial component in the design of electrical systems, serving as an enclosed conduit or channel that provides a pathway for electrical wiring. It is important to select the appropriate raceway system for a given application, as it can significantly impact project cost, system performance, safety, and reliability. The choice between a raceway and a conduit system depends on factors like the type of building, environmental conditions, and specific electrical needs.
Raceway systems can be categorised into two main types: surface-mounted and embedded. Surface-mounted raceways are commonly used for installations where cables and wires are exposed or organised in a visible manner. They are often installed on walls, ceilings, or floors and can be mounted using clips, screws, or adhesive. Surface raceways are ideal for areas where aesthetics or future accessibility is a priority, as they are easy to install, modify, and expand.
On the other hand, embedded raceways are installed within the structure, either buried underground or hidden within walls. Underground raceways are typically used in buildings with numerous cables and wires, while embedded wall raceways are found in residential homes and offices.
There are several types of raceway systems available, each with its own unique characteristics and applications:
- Metallic Raceway: This type of raceway is made from metal and can serve as an equipment grounding conductor (EGC) if it meets specific requirements. It provides protection and grounding for electrical wiring.
- Non-Metallic Raceway: Non-metallic raceways, also known as electrical non-metallic tubing (ENT), are typically made from PVC. They are pliable, corrugated circular raceways available in various colours and lengths. Non-metallic raceways are non-conductive and water-resistant, making them suitable for underground installations.
- Galvanised Steel: Galvanised steel raceways are used in industrial and commercial settings to protect wires in corrosive environments. They can be either flexible or rigid, depending on the specific application.
- Flexible Metal Conduit (FMC): FMC is ideal for wiring that needs to turn or curve and is suitable for areas with high vibration. It provides protection and flexibility for electrical wiring.
- Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC): RMC is typically made from heavy-wall steel or aluminium and offers physical protection for electrical wiring. However, it requires more time and labour for installation due to the need for cutting, bending, and threading.
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How to Install a Raceway
A raceway, also known as surface-mounted wiring, is a track of metal tubing that carries wires and cables along a wall. It is a highly important component in the structure and design of various electrical systems, including complex data centres and blade servers. Raceways are used to protect wires and cables from heat, humidity, corrosion, water intrusion, and physical threats.
Now, for the installation process:
Firstly, ensure that the power to the outlet is shut off from the circuit breaker box. Verify this with a voltage tester. Then, use a stud finder to locate and mark the stud along the wall or ceiling joist. Remove the faceplate and mounting screws from the starter receptacle. Install the new surface metal starter box over the existing receptacle wires.
Next, use a screwdriver to screw the new base plate onto the existing box. Install the ground screw into the threaded dimple on the starter box base. Use pliers to break out the knockout on the starter box that matches the profile of your raceway. Decide where you want to install the new outlet or switch, and mark the top and bottom positions of the box. Install the second receptacle box, ensuring it is level.
Now, you will need to connect the two boxes with the raceway. Measure the distance between the two boxes and cut the raceway to size, filing the edges until they are smooth. Insert raceway bushings into each end. Slide one end of the raceway into the starter box tongue and the other end into the notch on the base of the new box. Tap the raceway into the support clips with a rubber mallet and screw the base into the wall.
Finally, decide where you want to install any additional outlets or switches along the raceway. Mark the positions and use a stud finder to locate a stud to screw the box into. If there is no stud, drill pilot holes and insert screw anchors. Install the new outlet boxes and connect them to the raceway using elbow connectors. Ensure you measure and mark the positions for mounting clips and install them accordingly.
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History of the Term 'Raceway'
The term "raceway" was first used in the early 1900s in the United States, and is believed to have originated from the term "racecourse", which referred to the route of a horse race. Over the years, the use of raceways has become increasingly popular as they provide a safe, secure, and efficient way to install and maintain electrical wiring.
Raceways are a critical component of any electrical system, providing a safe and secure environment for electrical wiring. They are an enclosed channel or conduit that forms a physical pathway for electrical wiring, protecting wires and cables from damage, heat, corrosion, humidity, water intrusion, and other physical threats. Raceways are typically made of metal or plastic, and are used in commercial buildings, data centers, and blade servers. They are also employed in telecommunications, data networks, and HVAC systems.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, over 50% of electrical fires are caused by improperly installed wiring or faulty equipment. Properly installed raceways can help prevent these fires by providing additional protection against short circuits and other electrical hazards. Raceways are installed according to the National Electrical Code (NEC), which provides specific requirements for different types of raceways, including metallic and non-metallic varieties.
There are several types of raceways, including rigid metal conduits, intermediate metal conduits, electric non-metallic tubing, and flexible metallic tubing. Raceways can be buried underground or installed on the surface, depending on the specific application. Surface raceways are typically located in walls, floors, and ceilings of residential homes and offices, while underground raceways are usually installed under the flooring of buildings with many cables and wires.
In summary, the term "raceway" has evolved since its early usage in the 1900s to become a critical component of modern electrical systems, providing safety, efficiency, and protection against various hazards.
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Benefits of Using Raceways
Raceways are an important component in the structure and design of electrical systems, providing an enclosed conduit that creates a physical pathway for electric wiring. They are primarily used for industrial and commercial purposes, offering protection to cables and wires from various conditions and physical threats. Here are some key benefits of using raceways:
Protection from Environmental Conditions
Raceways shield wires and cables from heat, humidity, corrosion, and water intrusion. This helps maintain the integrity of electrical systems by preventing moisture, dirt, and dust debris from damaging the wiring.
Safety
Raceways play a critical role in ensuring the safety of electrical systems. By enclosing the wires and cables, raceways prevent electric hazards that could potentially harm people and properties. This protective function is especially important in corrosive environments, where galvanized steel raceways are often employed for their durability and corrosion resistance.
Flexibility and Accessibility
Cable raceways, in particular, offer flexibility and accessibility. Unlike electrical conduits, cable raceways allow access to the wiring inside after installation. This accessibility makes maintenance and future adjustments more convenient. Additionally, raceways come in a variety of materials, including metallic and non-metallic options, allowing for versatility in installation and design.
Ease of Installation
Raceways are designed to be user-friendly, with some types, such as cable raceways, being easier to install than electrical conduits. They can be installed on surfaces, buried underground, or even within concrete. This versatility ensures that raceways can be adapted to a wide range of applications and environments.
Electromagnetic Interference Mitigation
Well-grounded metallic conduits within raceways provide radio frequency (RF) shielding, reducing the risk of electromagnetic interference. This feature is particularly important in complex electrical systems, such as data centers and blade servers, where electromagnetic interference can cause significant issues.
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Materials Used for Raceways
A raceway is an important component in the structure and design of electrical systems, creating a physical pathway for electric wiring. They are also known as conduit systems and are used to protect cables and wires from damage, heat, humidity, corrosion, water interference, and physical threats.
Raceways are commonly made from metal or plastic. Metal conduits can be made from heavy-wall steel, aluminium, or galvanized steel. The latter is a popular choice due to its supreme strength and durability, providing protection from corrosion. Non-metallic or conduit raceway systems, on the other hand, are typically used in homes and underground. They are non-conductive and water-resistant.
For example, LabLink's surface-mounted raceways are made from high-quality extruded aluminium, offering a modern aesthetic and a corrosion-resistant surface. Versa-Duct raceways are also available in standard sizes, providing flexibility for in-field wiring.
Another type of raceway is the electric non-metallic tubing (ENT) raceway, which is a flexible, corrugated plastic conduit. While plastic conduits offer no electrical grounding or radio-frequency (RF) shielding, they are suitable for containing cables with their own RF shielding, such as coaxial cables.
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Frequently asked questions
A raceway is a type of electrical conduit that is used to protect and route electrical wiring in a building or structure. Raceways are typically made of metal or plastic and are used to protect wires and cables from damage, heat, corrosion, humidity, and physical threats.
Raceways can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, and fiberglass. Metal raceways are the most common type, with galvanized steel and aluminum being the most popular due to their strength and durability. Plastic and fiberglass raceways are also becoming more popular due to their lightweight and cost-effective nature.
The term "conduit" refers to a metal or plastic tube that protects electrical wiring and cables. Raceways, on the other hand, are enclosed channels that form a physical pathway for electrical wiring. They are typically made of metal or plastic and are used to protect wires and cables from damage and exposure to the elements. Raceways are a type of conduit, but not all conduits are raceways.
