An electric conduit is electrical tubing used for protection and routing of electrical wiring. They can be made from a variety of materials, such as: plastic, metal, fiber and fired clay, all depending on the purpose it is being used for. It is generally installed by electricians at the electrical equipment’s installation site. The regulations governing the conduits’ use, form and installation details are specified by the US National Electrical Code (NEC).
The open wall from the outside is always found in the open environment which protects the cable. It is used for unfinished places such as attics, crawlspaces, basements, and exterior mounts.
At a glance, this conduit looks like an armored cable. Like this Electrical Conduit, the insulated and lost individual wires are enclosed in an armored cable. This cable is used for the AC system. And this is used for open areas.
Conduits are commonly used as a term to describe a system that has a series of electrical conductors. The following are the reasons why duct systems are specially installed:
Connect the part of the conduit accordingly.
To act as a bridge outlet for the installed conductor.
Provide cavities, especially for making taps and pieces in conductors.
To provide taps especially for branch tube runs.
To make a 90-degree bend for the run of the hose.
To provide access for the conductor in terms of future system and maintenance system
To act as mounting outlets for lighting fixtures and wiring devices.
There are below different types of conduit used commonly in residential and light commercial wiring.
Rigid Metal Conduit
Rigid metal conduit (RMC) has a thick wall and is constructed of either aluminum or galvanized steel. This variety is one of the most heavy-duty types of conduit used in many industrial applications. Rigid metal is one of the more costly options but offers additional strength.
Intermediate Metal Conduit
Intermediate metal conduit (IMC) is a type of a rigid conduit rated for outdoor exposure and is intended for protecting insulated electrical cables and conductors. It offers much of the same protection of rigid metal conduit but is a more economical option for projects where cost is an issue.
Electrical Metallic Tubing
Electrical metallic tubing (EMT) is made from coated steel or aluminum and is a more economical and thinner-walled option than other conduit. This conduit type doesn’t offer the same protection as rigid metal conduit but is lighter and can be paired with conduit fittings, eliminating the need for threading. EMT can also be bent to shape using a special tool to fit around obstructions or follow the shape of the installation.
Liquid-Tight Non-Metallic Conduit
Liquid-tight non-metallic conduit is designed for use in environments where moisture could become an issue. This type of conduit must be used in conjunction with liquid-tight fittings.
PVC Conduit
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) conduit is the most popular type of non-metallic conduit and has several advantages:
Versatile and easy to install
Typically less expensive that other options
Lightweight
Available in a variety of wall thicknesses
Works well in concrete and underground
Despite its many advantages in other applications, PVC conduit isn't recommended for use in areas with direct sunlight exposure. Sunlight can break down the material over time.
