Beatrice Lang
Electrical conduits are tubes or pipes that house electrical wires and protect them from damage. They can be made of metal or plastic, and come in rigid or flexible forms. Metal conduits are typically made of galvanized steel or aluminium, and are used to shield sensitive circuits from electromagnetic interference. They can also be coated to prevent corrosion. Rigid metal conduits (RMC) are thick-walled threaded tubes usually made of coated steel, stainless steel or aluminium. Electrical metallic tubing (EMT) is a thin-walled conduit that is also commonly made of coated steel or aluminium. Other types of metal conduits include intermediate metal conduit (IMC) and galvanized rigid conduit (GRC).
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Types | Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC), Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT), Galvanized Rigid Conduit (GRC), Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC), Flexible Metal Conduit (FMT), Liquid-tight Flexible Metal Conduit (LFMC) |
| Materials | Galvanized steel, coated steel, stainless steel, aluminum |
| Properties | Rigid, flexible, thin-walled, lightweight, bendable, waterproof, corrosion-resistant, impact-resistant, UV-stable, EMI-protection |
| Use Cases | Residential, commercial, industrial, indoor, outdoor |
| Alternatives | Plastic conduits (PVC, ENT), BX wiring, armored cable |
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What You'll Learn
Rigid metal conduit (RMC)
RMC is commonly used in commercial and industrial construction and is designed to protect wires and connectors. It is often used when a higher resistance to corrosion is needed, such as in food processing plants where large amounts of water and cleaning chemicals are used. RMC is also used in energy and manufacturing plants and corrosive environments.
The material used for RMC can vary depending on the specific requirements and environmental conditions of the application. For example, aluminum conduit is generally lower in cost than steel and has a lower labour cost to install due to its lightweight nature. However, aluminum cannot be directly embedded in concrete as the metal reacts with the alkalis in cement. In contrast, galvanized steel tubing has a thicker wall that can be threaded and is commonly used in commercial and industrial buildings.
When choosing a material for RMC, it is important to consider the average moisture in the wire location. Excess water can cause corrosion and safety issues, so waterproof materials may be necessary. The size of the location is also a factor, as the National Electrical Code outlines specific sizing requirements for conduits. Additionally, the indoor or outdoor location of the conduit will impact the material choice, as outdoor locations may be exposed to severe weather conditions.
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Galvanized rigid conduit (GRC)
GRC is often used in commercial and industrial buildings due to its strength and corrosion resistance. It offers superior protection against mechanical damage and can also shield sensitive circuits from electromagnetic interference. This type of conduit is commonly used in settings where wiring needs to be protected from external factors, such as in exposed locations along exterior walls, unfinished areas like basements and attics, and surface-mounted installations outdoors.
Compared to other conduit options, GRC provides enhanced protection and durability. It is heavier and more robust than Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT), which is commonly used as a more lightweight and cost-effective alternative. EMT is also made of galvanized steel but has thinner walls, making it more susceptible to mechanical damage. However, EMT's lightweight nature makes it easier to bend and install, especially with the use of a special tool called a conduit bender.
When choosing between GRC and other conduit options, it is essential to consider the specific requirements of the application. Factors such as mechanical protection, corrosion resistance, cost, and weight come into play. GRC is ideal when maximum protection and durability are required, while EMT may be preferred for its lower cost and weight in less demanding applications. Additionally, in areas with high moisture levels, waterproof materials or PVC conduits might be considered to protect against wire corrosion and potential safety hazards.
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Intermediate metal conduit (IMC)
IMC is designed to provide protection for electrical wiring. It shields against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and reduces exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF). It also provides an excellent electrical path to the ground, recognised as an equipment grounding conductor by the National Electrical Code (NEC).
IMC is often chosen over RMC to keep costs down and productivity up. It is interchangeable with galvanised RMC, as both have the same threads, support requirements, and permitted locations. IMC can be used with threaded connections and may be threaded itself. It is covered under Article 342 in the NEC.
When choosing a conduit, it is important to consider the environment and the specific needs of the wiring application. For example, outdoor locations may require materials that can withstand severe weather conditions, while indoor locations may require less protection. Other factors to consider include moisture levels, which can impact wire conditions and cause corrosion and safety issues, and sizing requirements set by the NEC.
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Electrical metallic tubing (EMT)
EMT is generally made of coated steel, though it may be made of aluminium. EMT is available in trade sizes 1/2" through 4", and 10′ and 20′ lengths. EMT is lightweight, bendable, and easy to handle and install. It is also less costly than other conduit options.
EMT is best used indoors for residential and light commercial construction. If installed outdoors, it needs to be assembled along with watertight fittings. EMT will typically last a few years outdoors, but indoors, it will last indefinitely.
EMT is used when less protection is needed for the conduit, as in indoor settings. It is used in the walls of commercial buildings, as well as in schools, hospitals, data centres, and more.
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Plastic conduits
One of the most common types of plastic conduits is made from PVC. Rigid PVC is a plastic pipe similar in size to rigid metal conduit (RMC) and is available in Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 options. Schedule 40 is the most commonly used option, while Schedule 80 is used when there is a risk of damage to the pipes due to its thicker walls. PVC conduit is lightweight, usually lower in cost than other forms of conduit, and is available in various sizes and wall thicknesses.
Flexible plastic tubing, or Electrical Non-Metallic Tubing (ENT), is designed for use inside residential walls or concrete block structures. While ENT is moisture-resistant and flame-retardant, it is not suitable for exposed locations or outdoor installations due to its sensitivity to the elements.
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Frequently asked questions
Metal electrical conduits are typically made of galvanized steel, coated steel, stainless steel, or aluminum.
The different types of metal electrical conduits include Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC), Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT), Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC), and Galvanized Rigid Conduit (GRC).
The choice of material for a metal electrical conduit depends on various factors, including mechanical protection, corrosion resistance, cost, wiring regulations, and environmental conditions such as moisture levels and indoor or outdoor location.
