In electrical installations, cable conduiting involves using a metal or plastic pipe (conduit) to house and protect electrical wires. This provides a pathway for wires, safeguarding them from physical damage, moisture, and environmental hazards. Conduits also help organize wiring, make repairs easier, and prevent damage to the wires themselves.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Purpose of Cable Conduiting:
Protection:
Conduits shield wires from physical damage like bumps, scratches, and abrasion, especially in areas where they are exposed or prone to damage.
Moisture and Environmental Protection:
They prevent moisture, chemicals, and other harmful substances from reaching the wires, ensuring their long-term functionality.
Organized Wiring:
Conduits help to keep wiring neat and organized, making it easier to identify and troubleshoot wiring problems.
Repair and Maintenance:
Conduits simplify repairs and maintenance by allowing wires to be replaced or modified without damaging the surrounding infrastructure.
Safety:
They enhance safety by providing a protective barrier against electrical hazards.
Types of Conduits:
Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC):
Made of steel or other metals, RMC is strong and provides excellent protection but is more difficult to bend and may corrode in some environments.
Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC):
Similar to RMC but lighter and more flexible, IMC offers a balance between strength and ease of installation, according to AerosUSA.
Flexible Metal Conduit (FMC):
FMC is made of a flexible metal coil and allows for easy installation in tight spaces, particularly where vibrations are present.
Plastic Conduit:
Non-metallic conduits offer corrosion resistance and are suitable for certain applications, according to Champion Fiberglass.
Liquidtight Flexible Non-Metallic Conduit (LNFC):
A flexible, liquidtight conduit that's resistant to moisture and chemicals, often used in industrial settings, according to Electri-Flex Company