When it comes to protecting and routing electrical wiring, rigid electrical conduits play a crucial role. These conduits are like protective tubes that house electrical wires, safeguarding them from damage and reducing the risk of electrical hazards.

This blog will introduce you to the world of rigid electrical conduits, explore the different types available, and highlight their common uses.

What Are Rigid Electrical Conduits?

Rigid electrical conduits are strong, tubular structures designed to encase electrical wiring. Unlike flexible conduits, which can bend and twist, rigid conduits maintain their shape and provide robust protection against physical damage, moisture, and corrosion.

These conduits are essential in both residential and commercial electrical installations, ensuring safety and reliability.

Types of Rigid Electrical Conduits

Rigid electrical conduits come in various types, each made from different materials and suited for specific applications.

Let’s explore some of the most common types, including a special type known as Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) conduits, and understand why they are sometimes preferred over other materials.

●       Galvanised Rigid Conduit (GRC)

• Material: Steel with a galvanised coating
• Features: Highly durable and resistant to corrosion
• Uses: Commonly used in industrial and commercial buildings, especially in outdoor or exposed locations where maximum protection is needed.

●       Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC)

• Material: Typically steel or aluminium
• Features: Strong and durable, offering excellent mechanical protection
• Uses: Ideal for industrial environments and areas where the conduit might be subject to physical damage.

●       PVC Conduit

• Material: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
• Features: Lightweight, non-metallic, resistant to corrosion and moisture
• Uses: Ideal for underground installations, wet or corrosive environments, and areas where metal conduits might corrode.

●       Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) Conduit

• Material: Specially formulated plastic that emits limited smoke and no halogen when exposed to high heat or fire
• Features: Emits very low levels of smoke and no toxic halogen gases when burned
• Uses: Preferred in environments where fire safety is a significant concern, such as in public buildings, transportation systems (trains, subways, airports), and enclosed spaces with limited ventilation

Uses of Rigid Electrical Conduits

Rigid electrical conduits are employed in various settings to ensure the safety and efficiency of electrical systems.

Below are some typical uses of these types of conduits.

1.     Industrial Applications

In factories and manufacturing plants, rigid conduits protect wiring from physical damage caused by machinery and heavy equipment. They also help prevent electrical hazards in areas where chemicals and moisture are present.

2.     Commercial Buildings

In offices, shopping malls, and other commercial spaces, conduits provide a neat and organised way to route electrical wiring. This not only improves safety but also makes future maintenance and upgrades easier.

3.     Residential Installations

While less common in homes compared to commercial or industrial settings, rigid conduits are sometimes used in residential construction for added protection, especially in basements, garages, and outdoor areas.

4.     Underground Wiring

PVC conduits are particularly suited for underground applications, protecting electrical cables from soil, moisture, and potential damage from digging or landscaping activities.

5.     Hazardous Locations

In environments where explosive gases or dust are present, such as chemical plants or grain silos, rigid conduits are essential for containing electrical wiring and preventing sparks or electrical faults.

Conclusion

Rigid electrical conduits are an indispensable component of modern electrical installations, providing protection and organisation for wiring systems.

Whether made from metal or PVC, these conduits ensure that electrical wiring is safely routed and shielded from damage, reducing the risk of electrical hazards.

By understanding the different types of rigid conduits and their uses, you can make informed decisions about the best conduit for your specific needs, ensuring a safe and efficient electrical installation.

Ensure uncompromised protection and durability with rigid electrical conduits from Greenbuild Supply, Australia’s leading LSZH cable management solutions provider.