An electrical conduit is a critical component in any wiring system. Its purpose is to protect and support the electrical cables from damage and to provide a safe, secure way for the electrical current to flow. (1)
There are different types of electrical conduits available on the market, so it’s crucial to carefully select the one that best suits your needs. Otherwise, you might end up with an unsafe or damaged electrical system. (1)
To narrow down your options, here are some tips from leading electrical conduit suppliers to help you choose the appropriate product:
- Know the application or purpose of the conduit
First and foremost, it’s best to know the primary application or purpose of the electrical conduit before making a purchase. Do you need it for a residential wiring project? Or is it for a commercial or industrial application?
The answer to that question will help you determine the type of conduit material that you need. For instance, if you’re working on a residential wiring project, particularly in a wet area, you’ll need a conduit made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or other non-metallic materials. While PVC conduit is often interchanged with PVC pipe, these two products have different functions. A PVC conduit material is specifically designed to contain and protect your electrical wiring, while a PVC pipe is used for plumbing jobs. (1) (2)
On the other hand, if you need an electrical conduit for a commercial or industrial application, then a metal conduit would be the ideal choice. Metal conduits are more durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions. They’re also fire-resistant, which is an important safety consideration. (3)
Each type of electrical conduit has general-purpose wiring, while others are designed for special applications. So, knowing these critical factors will help you choose the most suitable product.
- Be familiar with the different types of electrical conduits
As mentioned, an electrical conduit has various types, each with a different purpose or use. To further assist you in choosing the correct product, you may look at the electrical conduit suppliers in your area. But before that, here’s a quick rundown of some types of electrical conduits:
- Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC)
An RMC is a heavy-duty type of electrical conduit. It’s often used in commercial and industrial applications where the wiring needs maximum protection. An RMC is usually made from galvanized steel coated with zinc or aluminium, making it resistant to fire, impact and corrosion. It can also withstand high temperatures and vibration.
Additionally, RMC is available in different trade sizes, but the standard ones are 1/2 to 2-1/2 inches. The most common length is 10 feet, but it can also be cut into shorter or longer pieces, depending on your project requirements.
- Flexible Metal Conduit (FMC)
An FMC is a type of electrical conduit that’s made from flexible metalcore. The most common core materials are zinc-coated steel or aluminium. It’s often utilised in areas where there’s a need for frequent movement or vibration, such as elevators, escalators, appliances and medical equipment. An FMC is typically available in sizes ranging from 1/2 inch to 4 inches.
- Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT)
This type of conduit is one of the most common choices for commercial and industrial applications and has a less significant role in residential wiring. An EMT is a thin-walled conduit that’s most often used in interior applications but can also be suitable for outdoor use. The common core materials for this type of conduit are coated steel or aluminium. It has a size range of 1/2 inch to 1 inch.
- Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC)
An IMC is lighter and thinner than an RMC. It also has a smooth interior and exterior surface, making it easier and faster to install. This material is threadable and can be used with screwed-type fittings. It’s damage-resistant. Like RMC, this conduit has a standard size of 1/2 inch to 2-1/2 inches, and the finished length is 10 feet (with coupling).
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- Look for a reputable supplier
You want to make sure you’re working with a reputable electrical conduit supplier as well. A reliable supplier will offer top-quality products that meet the standards of your local building code. It should also have a wide range of products to choose from so that you can find the most suitable one for your project requirements. You can find one by searching online for “electrical cable suppliers near me”.
You may also consider finding electrical suppliers in your local area to ensure that the products are in line with the local standards. This approach will also help you save on shipping costs as you can conveniently pick up the products from the supplier’s warehouse. Or perhaps the delivery fee is already included in the total price.
It’s also essential to note that the ideal electrical suppliers will offer a warranty on their products. This guarantee serves as a safety net if the product has a manufacturing defect or damage.
Conclusion
Choosing the right type of electrical conduit is essential to ensure the safety of your wiring project. By following the tips above, you can find the most suitable product for your needs. Working with a reputable supplier will also help ensure that you’re getting top-quality electrical conduit products.
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