Electricity requires a complex network to produce, distribute, and regulate electrical connectivity. And to make those networks smooth, an electrical conduit pipe is an essential component. It helps in forming a flawless electrical system in the areas where electrical wiring is widely spread.
However, electrical conduit pipes come in a variety of sizes with versatile installation features and this guide is created to cover all the types in detail.
What is an Electrical Conduit?
An electrical conduit is a durable tube used to protect and provide a pathway for a single electric wire. It is imperative to use conduit pipe and electrical conduit pipe fittings where the wires are exposed or damaged. The conduits are made of metal or plastic and can be rigid or flexible. All electrical conduit pipes are equipped with their fittings.
Different Types of Electrical Conduit
Flexible Metal Conduit
Flexible metal conduit pipe has a spiral structure. It is ideal for indoor wiring that requires substantial bending. It is more flexible and easier to bend than other electrical conduits.
Galvanized Rigid Metal Conduit
It is a heavy-duty galvanized steel pipe with thread fittings. It used to screw different sections into each other. It’s the most sturdy and expensive conduit type. It is commonly used outdoors for running cables through walls and connecting panels.
Metallic Electrical Pipes:
It is another example of a rigid conduit made of galvanized steel or aluminium. A metallic electrical conduit is also called “thin-walled” because it is thinner and lighter than an intermediate metallic conduit. However, it is rigid but can be bent with a simple catheter bender tool. It is easier to bend and is more aesthetically pleasing.
Electrical metallic conduit equipped with couplings and accessories is either fixed with screws or compression-type fasteners. Its standard sizes include ½ inch, ¾ inch, and 1 inch. It is used for exposed indoor wiring in residential and commercial buildings.
Non-Metallic Electrical Pipes:
These are corrugated pipes that are flame-retardant and moisture-proof. Non-metallic electric pipes are more flexible than PVC and installed with glued fittings. They are installed in wooden structures, metal frames, or concrete block structures.
Rigid PVC Conduit:
A rigid polyvinyl chloride conduit is famous for its cost and watertight fittings. It is suitable for many underground applications and in corrosive environments.
Different Types of Electric Conduit Pipe Fittings:
There are numerous types of electrical conduit fittings. Here we will discuss the most common ones:
Couplings:
Couplings connect separate metallic conduit segments in the same circuit. They perform their function by using three main mechanisms:
- Threaded couplings have internal threads. They are used to connect threaded conduits with ease.
- Set-screw couplings have removable and adjustable screws. They are used to lock conduits in place.
- Compression couplings are three-piece fittings. They have external threads and lock-nuts. They are used to insert conduit and fix it in place.
Connectors:
Connectors are used to join conduits with junction boxes, pull boxes, and other electrical enclosures. The connector attaches to the electrical box with a thread and lock-nut.
Straps and Strut Clamps:
Straps are used to attach conduits to fixed surfaces. Their U-shaped body enables them to
clip around the tube.
Strut clamps serve the same purpose, but the design differs. A c-shaped strut is used to hook the conduit firmly in place.
Elbows:
Elbows are conduit segments designed with a turn angle of 90° or 45°. They are used to connect conduits by using couplings or compressions.
Conduit Bodies:
Conduit bodies are the most versatile and valuable electrical fittings. They serve as a pull box and allow a change of direction when needed.
Other Types of Electrical Conduit Pipe Fittings – include adaptors, bushing, flanges, plugs, and more.
Conduit – An Electrician’s Friend:
Electrical conduits and fittings offer choices and versatility. They ease the installation process, whether it is a residential or commercial setting. They ensure the wirings are code compliant, safe, and effective. If you are looking for a reliable name in conduit, Adamjee DuraBuilt offers a wide range of pipes for power supply and telecommunication installations.
Our conduits will help you tackle various jobs, including lighting and mechanical power supply. All the materials are extensively tested to ensure high performance. Now you better understand the different types of conduits and their fittings. This information will be helpful in your next electrical project.
We look forward to making your next installation an electrifying success!