What is Electrical Conduit?

Electrical conduit is a raceway used to house and protect electrical wires within a
building or structure. From data centers to underground subways to ports and bridges,
electrical conduit is an integral part of the modern world around us.
Depending on the application there are many different types available. The
specified conduit for your project may be rigid or flexible and will offer varying degrees
of protection from impact, corrosion, gases and vapors, moisture, fire, and even
electromagnetic interference, depending on the needs of the installation environment.
Environments that are wet, highly corrosive, or hazardous typically require specialty
conduit.
Electrical conduit may also be permitted per the National Electrical Code (NEC) for
use in direct encasement (or direct burial) in concrete, which is common in commercial
applications. The ability to field bend conduit, as well as its allowable support
spacings will impact how many fittings (couplings, elbows, connectors) are needed for a
project and also have a direct impact on cost.

How Are Metallic and Non-Metallic Conduits Similar?

Metallic and non-metallic conduits can both protect electrical wiring in various
applications like heating, outdoor lighting and underground cabling. A metal conduit is
made with stainless steel that is galvanized and coated as well as aluminum — perfect
for withstanding harsh conditions like extreme heat and cold. Metal conduits are excellent
for industrial applications like protecting wiring on railway lines and cables in walls and
floors.
A non-metallic conduit is made from materials like polyvinyl chloride
(PVC), polyamide, polypropylene and polyurethane — excellent for installing in tight
spaces like HVAC systems. Businesses can use pliable conduits in numerous outdoor and
indoor applications, like protecting indoor residential wiring and cables in swimming pools.

Similarities of Metal vs. Plastic Conduits

Purpose
Plastic and metal conduits are both used to protect electrical wiring. Plastic options
are versatile, perfect for commercial and residential applications like underground cable
insulation in irrigation systems and building surfaces. Metal conduits are sturdy and
reliable for protecting aerospace and automotive equipment wiring and resending
electrical ceiling wiring.
Durability
Both metal and plastic conduits can withstand moisture, heat and corrosion like
rust. Metals like steel and aluminum are robust and resist tears, cuts and other damage.
PVC and other plastic materials can be rigid and are wear-resistant and chemical-
resistant. They can also repel fires and electrical hazards.
Size Options
You may need conduits for a wide range of applications, from bridge construction
to HVAC systems. Whatever your requirements, both metal and plastic conduits come in
various sizes that fit numerous functions.
Safety
Plastic and metallic conduits can prevent electrical fires and provide insulation from
mechanical damage. Plastic options can be fire-resistant and can contain the spread of
fire. While metal is an electrical conductor, metal conduits are fireproof and can transport
electric power safely to the source.

What Is the Difference Between Metallic and Non-Metallic

Conduits?
Price
Non-metallic conduits can be less expensive than metallic. Metals are thicker than
plastic and can cost more to manufacture. Metal conduit manufacturing can also require
more intricate tools and specialized skills, and the manufacturing timeline can be longer.
Plastic is a lighter material and takes less labor to manufacture. Plastic can also be more
readily available for conduit manufacturing.
Application
Businesses can use non-metallic conduits for applications like residential wiring in
concrete surfaces and walls to protect against electrical faults and fires. In addition, PVC
conduits are great for securing electrical ceiling wires.
Rigid metal conduits are ideal for exposed cables along building walls, attics and outdoor
areas. Applications for flexible metal conduits include more complex, high-pressure
environments like wiring in aerospace equipment. Steel conduits can also be used as
grounding or earth conductors to carry electrical current safely through power supplies.
Weight
Plastic can weigh less than metal conduits, making it easier to install these options
in various positions and at different angles. Rigid metallic conduits are often heavier, but
are ideal for withstanding heavy loads and underground environments.
Strength
When it comes to durability, metal is the more robust material overall. Metal
conduit can withstand extreme high and low temperatures and last for many years. For
example, businesses can use metal conduits for grounding wiring in snow and extreme
heat as well as high vibration and force on railway lines.
Corrosion Resistance
Non-metallic conduits can often withstand wear and corrosion like warping, rotting
and rust better than metal counterparts. While businesses can use metallic and non-
metallic options in damp, humid locations, metal conduits may require a plastic coating
to prevent water and chemical damage.
Recyclable
If sustainability is a priority, metallic conduits are typically a more eco-friendly
option. Aluminum is one of the most reusable materials, though many plastics like PVC
are also recyclable.
Safety Rating
While metallic and non-metallic options can be safe for numerous uses, rigid
metallic conduits often have a higher electrical safety rating since they resist high
electrical voltages and can protect against electrical hazards.

Which Type of Conduit Should You Use?

Safety Requirements
It’s important to follow local and national safety regulations when selecting an
electrical conduit. Various safety codes offer specific directions on conduit installations,
inspections and circuit approvals. Businesses must also choose conduit materials that are
appropriate for their specific application.
To ensure safety, it’s essential to consider factors like moisture, wear, pests,
vibrations, chemical resistance and heat resistance depending on industry application,
location and conditions.
Size
A conduit should be the right size for the specific job at hand. Determining the
proper conduit diameter is crucial to ensure a secure fit and prevent moisture damage.
It’s also important to think about application in order to choose the right size. For
example, underground electrical protection can require longer conduits, while a heating
system may need shorter or smaller tubes.
Project Goals
Various conduits offer benefits like liquid resistance, flexibility and easy installation,
so your choice should align with the specific project’s goal.
For example, a liquid flexible metal conduit (LFMC) can offer hardness and water
resistance and is versatile — ideal for protecting wiring in water treatment facilities. In
contrast, liquid-tight flexible non-metallic conduit (LFNC) can be suitable for interior and
exterior use in dry or wet conditions like wire protection in HVAC systems.
Conduit Fittings
Selecting a suitable conduit fitting material is vital. Whether the fitting is plastic or
metal, it must offer the same moisture resistance and corrosion resistance as the conduit.
Consider fittings like liquid-tight plastic for liquid-tight conduits or metal fittings for rigid
metallic conduits.
Customization and Availability
Equipment and projects can vary, requiring specialized conduits, fitting designs
and sizes. Consider suppliers who can tailor conduits and fittings to meet various
requirements. In addition, some parts can take longer to manufacture than others, so
determine the availability of options and if a supplier can meet project demands on time.
Types of Metal Conduits
1. Galvanized Rigid Conduit (GRC) / Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC)
Galvanized rigid conduit is a strong, durable, thick-walled steel tubing made using
a hot-dip galvanization process to help avoid corrosion. In specific installations, GRC also
serves as a grounding material.
Although it provides outstanding protection for electrical wiring, it comes at a cost.
GRC is heavy and sometimes difficult to work with, and if workers need to change
direction for a bend, they need threaded fittings and bending tools.
Applications: GRC is common in industrial locations and other hazardous areas where
corrosion is possible.
Purposed:
Galvanized Rigid Conduit (GRC) / Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC) is a heavy-duty,
zinc-coated steel conduit used to protect and route electrical wiring. Its main purposes
are:
• Protection: Shields electrical wires from physical damage and environmental
hazards like moisture and chemicals.
• Grounding: Provides a reliable electrical grounding path to enhance safety.
• Fire Resistance: Helps prevent the spread of fire by containing sparks or heat.
• Corrosion Resistance: The galvanized coating makes it suitable for outdoor or
corrosive environments.
• Durability: Offers long-term strength and requires minimal maintenance.
• Safety in Hazardous Locations: Used in environments prone to explosions or
fires.
Commonly used in industrial, commercial, outdoor, and hazardous settings.
2. Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC)
Intermediate metal conduit has a thinner wall than GRC but is easier to work with
and more cost-effective. It offers strong protection for wire and cable and is often used
when GRC might be overkill.
Like GRC, intermediate metal conduit is galvanized to protect against corrosion
and may be threaded for faster connections when making bends or terminations.
Applications: IMC is excellent for commercial and residential spaces, including along
walls and ceilings and in areas where corrosion poses a risk.
Purposed:
Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC) is a lightweight, durable steel conduit used to
protect electrical wiring. Its key purposes are:
• Protection: Shields wiring from physical damage, moisture, and corrosion.
• Lightweight: Easier to handle and install compared to Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC).
• Corrosion Resistance: Galvanized coating makes it suitable for outdoor and wet
environments.
• Cost-Effective: Provides strong protection at a lower cost than RMC.
• Grounding: Serves as a grounding path for electrical systems.
• Safety Compliance: Meets electrical safety standards for various installations.
IMC is commonly used in industrial, commercial, and outdoor electrical systems.
3. Electrical Metal Tubing (EMT)
This thin-walled conduit is easy to install, flexible, cost-efficient, and lighter than
other types of conduits. EMT still offers corrosion protection, thanks to a hot-dip
galvanization process, and its bendability means workers can use hand tools to maneuver
it into tight spaces.
One drawback of EMT is that workers need fittings and couplings, like compression
fittings and set screws, to connect pieces together.
Applications: Electrical metal tubing is well-suited for commercial and residential low-
voltage installations, including wiring and controls. It doesn’t offer much impact
resistance, so it’s better to use EMT in aerial or vertical applications attached to a
structure.
Purposed:
Electrical Metal Tubing (EMT) is a lightweight, cost-effective conduit used to protect
and route electrical wiring. Its main purposes are:
• Wiring Protection: Shields electrical wires from damage.
• Easy Installation: Lightweight and flexible, making it quick to install.
• Cost-Effective: A more affordable option compared to other conduits.
• Indoor Use: Primarily used for indoor wiring due to its thin structure.
• Fire and Electrical Safety: Non-combustible, offering fire protection.
• Grounding: Can serve as a grounding conductor in electrical systems.
EMT is commonly used in indoor commercial and residential wiring applications.
4. Flexible Metal Conduit (FMC)
True to its name, flexible metal conduit is bendable and easy for workers to
manipulate. Made from interlocked metal bands, FMC offers good protection and excels
in tight areas where the conduit must bend to fit.
Despite being easy to work with, the interlocking bands leave FMC susceptible to
moisture if improperly prepped. The bands also have sharp edges, so installers should be
careful to avoid damaging wires.
Applications: FMC is great for winding through tight or concealed spaces and near
machinery where wires would have been exposed. For more use cases, check your NEC
(National Electrical Code) codebook.
Purposed:
Flexible Metal Conduit (FMC) is used to protect electrical wiring in installations where
flexibility is needed. Its key purposes are:
• Flexibility: Bends easily around tight spaces and corners.
• Vibration Resistance: Ideal for areas with movement or vibrations.
• Temporary Wiring: Useful for quick, temporary installations.
• Indoor Use: Best suited for dry, indoor environments.
• Tight Spaces: Works well in confined or hard-to-reach areas.
• Fire Resistance: Offers some protection against heat and fire.
FMC is often used in industrial, commercial, and residential settings for flexible and
adaptable wiring solutions.
5. Liquid-Tight Flexible Metal Conduit (Liquid-Tight Conduit)
Like how a liger combines a lion’s power with a tiger’s swiftness, Liquid-Tight
Flexible Metal Conduit combines the flexibility of FMC with a watertight PVC jacket to help
it excel in wet environments.
Although Liquid-Tight Conduit bends, the PVC jacket causes it to be more rigid
than FMC. However, the jacket makes this conduit suitable for outdoor applications,
including spots where excessive sunlight is an issue.
Applications: Liquid-Tight Conduit works well in areas where wires need protection from
extensive moisture and splashing water, including boatyards, cranes, and service
entrance installs.
Purposed:
Liquid-Tight Flexible Metal Conduit (LFMC) is designed to protect electrical wiring
in harsh conditions, offering flexibility and moisture resistance. Its key purposes are:
• Moisture Protection: Shields wiring from water and liquids.
• Flexibility: Bends easily in tight spaces while maintaining protection.
• Vibration Resistance: Ideal for areas with movement or vibrations.
• Outdoor/Underground Use: Suitable for outdoor or underground installations.
• Chemical and Oil Resistance: Protects against corrosive substances.
• Fire Resistance: Offers protection against heat and fire.
LFMC is commonly used in industrial, outdoor, underground, and wet environments where
flexible, durable, and liquid-tight protection is needed.
5. Aluminum Conduit
Aluminum is less common than steel conduit but has several advantages worth
considering.
Unlike heavy steel conduit, lightweight aluminum makes sense for aerial
applications like scissor lifts and is easier to move and handle. Like steel, it can be
threaded and bent using tools and may serve as a grounding conductor in specific
applications.
Though aluminum conduit costs less than its rigid steel counterparts, it’s weaker
and may undergo galvanic corrosion if improperly installed.
Applications: The bigger the project, the more savings aluminum conduit provides. The
metal also holds up well in areas where salty air is a problem, including coastal regions.
Saltwater is corrosive, but aluminum forms aluminum oxide as it corrodes for added
protection.
Purposed:
Aluminum conduit is an electrical conduit made from aluminum, primarily used for
protecting and routing electrical wiring. Its key purposes and advantages include:
1. Protection: Shields electrical cables from physical damage and environmental
hazards.
2. Lightweight & Corrosion Resistant: Easier to handle than steel and resistant
to corrosion, making it suitable for outdoor use.
3. Grounding: Provides an effective grounding path for electrical systems.
4. Ease of Installation: Lightweight and easily bent, simplifying installation
processes.
5. Cost-Effective: Often more affordable than steel, considering weight and
longevity.
6. Versatile Use: Applicable in various settings, including industrial, commercial,
and residential environments.
7. Compliance: Meets electrical codes for protecting exposed wiring.
Overall, aluminum conduit is a practical and versatile option for electrical installations.
Types of Non-Metal Conduits
1. Electrical Non-Metallic Tubing (ENT)
Made from corrugated plastic, ENT is a thin walled, highly flexible PVC conduit that
can be bent by hand. ENT is lightweight, easy to install, great for large jobs, and suitable
for damp or wet environments because of its corrosion resistance.
Compared to similar metal conduits, ENT is less expensive but capable of
protecting wire and cable from abrasions. It is also direct burial rated in some
formulations. Other versions of electrical non-metallic tubing are suitable for
communications and fiber installations.
Applications: ENT works for internal installations, including residential and commercial
applications. Workers can install it outdoors, but it should be used where it won’t be
subjected to high temperatures or direct sunlight since both can weaken PVC.
Purposed:
Electrical Non-Metallic Tubing (ENT) is a flexible, lightweight conduit used to protect
and route electrical wiring in various applications. Here are its key purposes and
advantages:
1. Protection of Wiring: ENT protects electrical cables from physical damage,
moisture, and chemicals, ensuring safe operation.
2. Lightweight and Flexible: Its lightweight nature and flexibility make it easy to
handle and install in various configurations, especially in tight spaces.
3. Corrosion Resistant: Being non-metallic, ENT is resistant to corrosion, making
it suitable for use in damp or corrosive environments.
4. Cost-Effective: Generally more affordable than metallic conduits, ENT provides
a budget-friendly option for electrical installations.
5. Ease of Installation: It can be cut and shaped easily, allowing for quick
installations and adjustments.
6. Compliance with Codes: ENT is designed to meet electrical codes and
standards, ensuring safety and compliance in electrical systems.
7. Applications: Commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings,
ENT is ideal for concealed wiring and where aesthetics are important.
ENT is a practical choice for protecting and routing electrical wiring, combining flexibility,
affordability, and ease of installation.
2. Rigid PVC Conduit (Schedule 80)
Like ENT, rigid PVC conduit is a lower-cost material compared to metal, but still
capable of protecting wires from abrasion and light damage. Unlike ENT, Schedule 80 has
a thicker wall and is more difficult to bend, though the thinner Schedule 40 conduit is
more flexible.
Fittings and connectors for rigid PVC conduit are low cost and easily let workers
make 45 and 90-degree angles. Keep in mind the direction changes may require sweeps
for larger arcs. If you have questions, consult your NEC code book or local codes
department.
Applications: Rigid PVC conduit has many commercial and residential uses because of
its low cost and easy installation, especially along walls and ceilings and for direct burial
situations. It also makes sense for some industrial applications because of its corrosion
resistance.
Purposed:
Rigid PVC Conduit (Schedule 80) is a type of non-metallic conduit used for electrical
wiring in various applications. Here are its key purposes and advantages:
1. Protection of Electrical Wiring: Schedule 80 PVC conduit offers robust
protection for electrical wires against physical damage, moisture, and
environmental hazards.
2. High Impact Resistance: It has thicker walls compared to Schedule 40 PVC
conduit, providing increased strength and resistance to impact, making it suitable
for harsh environments.
 3. Corrosion Resistant: Being made of PVC, it is resistant to corrosion, chemicals,
and UV radiation, which enhances its durability, especially in outdoor or industrial
settings.
4. Lightweight: Schedule 80 PVC is lightweight, making it easier to transport and
install compared to metal conduits.
5. Ease of Installation: It can be easily cut, joined, and installed using solvent
cement, simplifying the installation process.
6. Cost-Effective: Generally, PVC conduit is more affordable than metal
alternatives, reducing overall project costs.
7. Non-Conductive: As a non-metallic option, Schedule 80 PVC conduit does not
conduct electricity, providing an added layer of safety in electrical installations.
8. Applications: Commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial
applications, it is suitable for underground installations and areas where extra
protection is needed.
Rigid PVC Conduit (Schedule 80) is a strong, durable, and cost-effective option for
protecting and routing electrical wiring in various environments.
3. Fiberglass Reinforced Epoxy Conduit (Reinforced Thermoset Resin
Conduit)
Strong, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant, fiberglass conduit uses fiberglass
strands combined with epoxy or phenolic (a composite resin) to create a low-friction,
flame retardant, low-smoke material suitable for many projects.
Fiberglass conduit is expensive, but it’s a low-weight/high-strength solution with a
direct burial rating for some applications. For everything it’s good at, fiberglass sometimes
struggles in colder temperatures but outperforms PVC in high-temp areas.
Applications: Fiberglass makes sense where fire safety and protection are critical,
thanks to its fire resistance and low smoke production. Fiberglass conduit is also an option
where corrosion is a threat, including wastewater treatment facilities, chemical plants,
substations, power plants, offshore operations, and telecommunication.
Purposed:
Fiberglass Reinforced Epoxy Conduit (Reinforced Thermoset Resin Conduit, or
RTRC) is a non-metallic conduit with several key purposes and advantages:
1. Durability: Offers high tensile strength and impact resistance for harsh
environments.
2. Corrosion Resistance: Resists moisture, chemicals, and corrosion, ensuring
long-term performance.
3. Lightweight: Easier to handle and install compared to metal conduits.
4. Non-Conductive: Reduces electrical hazards by not conducting electricity.
5. High Temperature Resistance: Suitable for applications in high-temperature
environments.
6. Easy Installation: Can be easily cut and joined with standard tools.
7. UV Resistance: Suitable for outdoor use without degradation from sunlight.
8. Applications: Ideal for industrial and commercial settings, particularly in power
distribution and chemical processing.
RTRC is a strong, durable, and versatile conduit option, particularly suitable for
challenging environments.
4. HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) Conduit
HDPE conduit does some of everything, from housing electrical and
telecommunication cables to pushing water and gas or even serving as wall pilings for
marine applications.
The plastic used to make HDPE conduit is durable, abrasion, impact, chemical, and
corrosion resistant, and is a generally low-cost choice compared to metal products.
Additionally, HDPE conduit is flexible and smooth, making pulling cable easier than other
types.
Applications: HDPE is a fantastic general-purpose conduit with uses across residential,
commercial, and industrial projects. However, it struggles in high-heat situations, with
crush protection, and where direct sunlight is an issue.
Purposed:
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) conduit is a versatile non-metallic conduit used
primarily in electrical and telecommunications applications. Here are its key advantages:
1. Durability and Flexibility: Strong yet flexible, it withstands various
environmental conditions.
2. Corrosion Resistance: Resists chemicals and moisture, suitable for underground
and outdoor use.
3. Lightweight: Easier to handle and install compared to metal conduits.
4. Low Friction: Smooth inner walls reduce friction for easier cable pulling.
5. Impact Resistance: Withstands harsh weather and impacts.
6. Non-Conductive: Enhances safety by not conducting electricity.
7. Design Flexibility: Can be easily bent and shaped for complex layouts.
8. Eco-Friendly: Recyclable material contributes to environmental sustainability.
9. Applications: Commonly used in telecommunications, cable TV, electrical
distribution, and utility installations.
HDPE conduit offers durability, flexibility, and ease of installation, making it an excellent
choice for protecting wiring in various environments.
References:
Zimm, M. (2024, January 10). 10 Electrical conduit types and their applications - Kris-
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and-their-applications/
Champion Fiberglass. (2024, June 20). 8 types of electrical conduit for industrial
construction projects. https://championfiberglass.com/8-types-of-electrical-conduit-and-
their-uses/
Aerosusa. (2023, October 9). Metallic vs. Non-Metallic Conduit. AerosUSA.
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