Apr. 16, 2024
Conduits serve as a fundamental mechanical barrier for safeguarding vulnerable electrical cables, wiring, and fiber optics. Without proper cable management, these components remain exposed to external elements, leaving them susceptible to wear and tear.
Flexible, rigid, metallic, non-metallic, split, solid – these are all variations of conduits, each offering distinct features and advantages tailored to specific installations.
As a specialized supplier of metallic and plastic conduit systems, we are confident that you'll find the necessary products to protect and encase electrical cables here at Flex-It.
However, the question remains – which type is best suited for your application?
In this guide, we explore various types of flexible conduits, outlining their respective pros and cons to assist you in making an informed decision.
Metallic vs. Non-metallic Flexible Conduits
Flexible conduits can be fabricated from either composite metal or plastic materials.
Both types are engineered to offer equivalent protection as rigid conduits and are commonly utilized in installations necessitating flexibility for connections.
They prove beneficial in scenarios where electrical cables might encounter shock and vibration, facilitating convenient routing of cables around obstacles.
Pros of Metallic Conduits
Flexible metal conduits (FMC) feature a spiral construction, enabling easy threading through walls and other structures.
They are incredibly straightforward to install and can be maneuvered without requiring additional hardware or specialized tools, making them ideal for areas where rigid conduits are challenging to fit.
Well-suited for dry indoor environments, flexible metal conduits safeguard electrical wiring in commercial and industrial buildings, making them an excellent choice for machinery prone to vibration, such as heating and cooling units.
Liquid-tight metallic conduits (LFMC), a specialized type of FMC, are coated with waterproof plastic, rendering them suitable for outdoor applications.
Cons of Metallic Conduits
A flexible metal conduit is designed for use where flexibility is required due to movement or vibration, or where bends and offsets make the installation process tricky. It’s not intended for use in wet locations unless conductors are specially approved for the conditions.
Besides short runs, for wiring outdoor air conditioning equipment and wiring under kitchen sinks, the use of LFMC in residence is pretty limited.
Metal conduits, particularly steel braided, are more expensive than other types of conduit systems.
Pros of Non-metallic Conduits
Non-metallic conduits are typically more cost-effective than other options and are constructed from materials such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride), PA6, or polypropylene.
PVC is a robust thermoplastic known for its durability, resistance to weathering and chemicals, and non-conductive properties. It provides excellent protection against punctures, cuts, and other damages, thereby mitigating the risk of electrical accidents.
PA6 is a specially modified polyamide that offers numerous advantages over steel-braided conduits, including:
- Ease of cutting and installation
- Reduced installation time and costs
- Absence of sharp edges, ensuring safer handling
- High level of mechanical protection
- Suitable for both static and dynamic applications
Polypropylene flexible conduits are non-corrosive and provide a cost-effective solution for cable assemblies, underfloor wiring, and general cable management.
Available in split or solid configurations, these corrugated conduits are lightweight and simple to install. They have the ability to withstand any toxic materials that may pass through the cables, making them well-suited for harsh environments. The split variety also facilitates easy insertion and replacement of cables in the event of damage.
Cons of Non-metallic Conduits
One significant drawback of PVC conduits, in contrast to metallic flexible conduits, is their susceptibility to physical weakness.
PVC has the potential to break under physical stress, requiring additional support when installed over longer cable runs to prevent sagging.
While non-metallic conduits present an economical option for running cables underground or in environments exposed to dust and water, metal conduits are better suited for applications in basements or garages. These provide protection against rats, mice, and other impacts.
Which One Will You Choose?
Not sure which flexible conduits are the best fit for your needs? Need expert guidance? Don't worry, the team here at Flexible is always available to assist you and will be delighted to offer guidance and advice.
Of course, the choice of conduit will depend on the installation and the environment where the cables will be routed. However, we will carefully consider your specific requirements and budget before recommending the appropriate size and type.
