What is metallic flexible conduit for sale and Why Do We Use Them?
Metallic vs Non-Metallic Conduits: A Comprehensive Guide
Flexible conduit is a type of tubing or piping used to protect and organize electrical wiring in various structures. These conduits can be made from different materials, including metal and plastic.
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There are two primary types of conduits: metallic and non-metallic. Each type has its own set of advantages and drawbacks, making it essential to choose the right one for your project.
Metallic conduit, typically made from aluminum or steel, is known for its strength and durability, making it ideal for applications requiring mechanical protection. However, it tends to be more expensive and can be susceptible to corrosion.
Non-metallic conduit is generally made from plastic materials like PVC or HDPE. While it is more cost-effective and resistant to corrosion, it does not offer the same level of mechanical protection as metallic conduits and is less durable.
Choosing between metallic and non-metallic conduits depends on the specific needs of your application. Factors such as cost, durability, flexibility, weight, and resistance to temperature or corrosion are crucial in making an informed decision. The appropriate type of conduit will vary based on these requirements.
Now, let’s explore the similarities between these two types of conduits.
Similarities between Metallic and Non-Metallic Conduits
Here are some common attributes shared by both metallic and non-metallic conduits:
- Both are constructed from materials that ensure strength and durability, making them suitable for electrical wiring applications.
- Both types are designed to protect and organize electrical wiring.
- They are available in various common trade sizes to meet different application needs.
- Both are suitable for use in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings and structures.
- They provide protection against fire, mechanical damage, and corrosion.
- Both may adhere to the National Electrical Code (NEC) for electrical safety applications.
- They offer adequate electrical field shielding and flexural stiffness (resistance to deformation).
Differences between Metallic and Non-Metallic Conduits
Non-Metallic Conduit
Here are some advantages of using non-metallic conduits:
- Suitable for fixture whips, data centers, electric signs, outdoor lighting, HVAC systems, pools, and spas.
- Less expensive than metallic conduits.
- Easy to cut at the installation site.
- Lighter in weight compared to metallic conduits.
- More flexible, making it easier to route through tight spaces.
- Can be installed in wet locations and buried underground or in concrete.
- Applicable for both indoor and outdoor installations.
- PVC conduits can be recycled multiple times.
However, non-metallic conduits have some disadvantages:
- Less resistant to crushing forces, despite being able to rebound from impacts.
- Generally not rated for extreme temperature conditions.
- Not permitted in hazardous areas where ambient temperatures exceed 50°C (122°F) or in applications where conductor insulation temperatures exceed rated limits, such as in extremely cold conditions.
- Cannot be installed in plenum environments due to flammability and the potential for generating toxic smoke or fumes during a fire.
- Cannot be used without physical support along the installed length.
Metallic Conduit
Here are the advantages of using metal conduits:
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- Durable and can last many years with proper maintenance.
- Recyclable materials like galvanized steel, aluminum, stainless steel, bronze, and brass make it a more sustainable option.
- Can withstand extreme temperatures and conditions, ideal for harsh environments.
- Resistant to impact and temperature changes, suitable for high-traffic or extreme temperature areas.
- Made from non-combustible materials, providing excellent fire safety.
- Can be rated for electrical safety applications.
- Easy to machine or fabricate, ideal for custom sizes or shapes.
- Polymer jackets meet or exceed industrial chemical resistance requirements.
- Polymer jackets provide liquid-tight protection, allowing for wet installation or burial underground or in concrete.
- Polymer jackets offer low-smoke or halogen-free protection.
- Metal conduits may include an integral bonding wire, supporting NEC-approved electrical connections.
However, metallic conduits have some drawbacks:
- Higher upfront costs for materials and installation.
- Lack of complete protection for circuits above and below ground without a liquid-tight jacket.
- Heavier compared to non-metallic conduits.
Flexible Metallic & Non-Metallic Conduits from Anamet Electrical
The key differences between these conduit types boil down to material, durability, and cost.
Metal conduits are more expensive but offer superior protection against fire, pests, and extreme temperatures. They are also more durable and have a longer lifespan.
Non-metallic conduits, typically made of plastic, are less durable but more affordable, lighter, more flexible, and more resistant to corrosion.
Anamet Electrical, Inc. offers over 100 years of experience in manufacturing quality flexible conduits for electrical wiring. Our liquid-tight metallic and non-metallic conduits are designed to protect mission-critical wiring in harsh conditions on land, at sea, and in the air.
Our flexible metallic and non-metallic conduits come in various sizes and lengths and can be custom-ordered to meet your specific requirements.
If you are looking for a high-quality, reliable, and durable conduit solution, consider Anamet Electrical. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.
Flexible Metal Conduit
Flexible metal conduit (FMC) features a spiral construction, allowing it to snake through walls and other structures efficiently. FMC is used to protect electrical wiring in commercial and industrial buildings. Liquidtight flexible metal conduit (LFMC) is a specialized FMC with a plastic coating, making it watertight when used with sealed fittings.
Our products include various types of FMC and LFMC, compliant with the National Electrical Code® (NEC) and adhering to Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and CSA Standard UL 360/CSA C22.2 No. 56-17 for Flexible Metal Conduit and Liquid-Tight Flexible Metal Conduit.
NEMA members promote guidelines for the application and installation of FMC and have successfully proposed a sample selection for LFMC jacketing materials' qualification testing to UL.
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