A conduit or cable conduit is a versatile protective tube or channel that is used to route and enclose a great range of electrical cables and wires in indoor and outdoor facilities. These conduits serve multiple functions, safeguarding wiring systems and data cables. Cable conduits come in various sizes, colours, and materials, including plastic, PVC, nylon, and steel. Conduit is typically installed on a wall in buildings or other exposed areas, depending on the application needs. Additionally, electrical conduits come in varied forms based on their flexibility and materials and are easy to install when used with conduit fittings.
Fundamental Functions and Benefits of Using a Conduit
Cable conduits offer several benefits when it comes to organising and protecting electrical and data cables in various applications. Some main functions and benefits of conduits include:
- Protection: Conduits provide a physical barrier that shields electrical wiring from environmental factors such as moisture, dust, chemicals, and physical damage–thus preventing electrical faults, short circuits, and fires.
- Organisation: Conduits help organise and bundle multiple cables or wires, reducing tangling and simplifying maintenance and troubleshooting.
- Safety: By housing electrical wires and cables, accidental contact with live wires is minimised, safeguarding the equipment, people, and property. Conduits also prevent rodent or pest damage to cables.
- Aesthetics: In some settings, conduits can contribute to a cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing appearance, especially when used in conjunction with surface-mounted cable management systems.
- Compliance: In many building codes and regulations, the use of conduits is mandated for specific applications or locations, such as in commercial and industrial buildings, outdoor installations, and areas where wiring is exposed to potential hazards.
Popular Types of Cable Conduit
Several types of cable conduits are available in the market, each designed for specific applications and requirements. Some common cable conduit types include:
- Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC) – RMC is a heavy-duty conduit threaded at both ends, made of steel or aluminium. These conduits are suitable for industrial and commercial applications where robust protection is required.
- Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC) – Similar to RMC, IMC is also made of steel or aluminium but is lighter and easier to work with.
- Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT) – EMT is a lightweight steel conduit that is easy to bend and install. It is often used for exposed electrical wiring in residential and commercial buildings.
- Flexible Metal Conduit (FMC) – FMC is a flexible metallic conduit made of a spiral-wound metal strip. It is used when wiring needs to be routed through areas with tight bends or where flexibility is required. FMC is commonly used for connecting equipment such as motors and pumps.
- Liquid-tight Flexible Metal Conduit (LFMC) – LFMC is similar to FMC but has a liquid-tight outer jacket, making it suitable for wet or damp locations. It is commonly used in outdoor and underground installations.
- PVC Conduit – PVC conduit is a lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and flexible conduit made of plastic. It is available in various types and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Aluminum Conduit – Aluminum conduit is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and a cost-effective alternative to steel conduit widely used in outdoor applications.
- HDPE Conduit – High-density polyethylene (HDPE) conduit is a durable and lightweight option for protecting underground electrical cables. It is commonly used in telecommunications and utility installations.
- Corrugated Conduit – Corrugated conduit is a flexible, corrugated tube made of plastic or metal. It is often used for protecting and organising cables in outdoor and underground applications.
Typical Applications and Environments of Cable Conduits
A cable conduit is an indispensable channel for routing multiple cables and wires in commercial, residential, and industrial spaces (buildings) and is also ideal for outdoor environments. They are typically used in various facilities, including:
- Data and Server Rooms
- Telecommunications
- Healthcare Facilities
- Underwater and Harsh Environments
- Mining and Construction Sites
- Transportation
- Utilities and Power Distribution
- Transportation Infrastructure.
