Jun. 18, 2024
Conduit can be used in many different environments, including dry, wet, oily, and corrosive locations. It's a good choice for protecting wiring and cables from liquids, sun, heat, cold, and impact. It can also be used to keep out moisture and harmful substances that can damage wires and cables. Typical uses include HVAC units, pools and spas, chemical facilities, and ground burial.
Finding the right parts and tools for specific equipment can be challenging. It’s essential to consider not only the cost of these items but also their specifications and features. When it comes to selecting the right conduit fitting, how do you ensure you’re getting the appropriate part?
Start by understanding the application for the conduit fitting. The application dictates not only the material of the conduit fitting but also the particular features that must comply with relevant standards, such as the NEC (National Electrical Code) standard. Compliance with such standards ensures that your components and the installation meet quality and safety requirements.
Conduit fittings are available in materials such as die-cast zinc, galvanized steel, nickel-plated brass, nylon, and others. While the NEC standard does not specify which material to use, it does require that the material meets certain performance criteria. When choosing your material, think about the design and suitability for specific applications.
There are conduit materials designed particularly for liquid tight performance in the petro-chemical industry, the food and beverage business, in waste water treatment, and other industrial applications. Some fittings are suitable for both wet and dry applications, generally intended for heating, air conditioning, and various industrial purposes. Other fittings are exclusively used for electrical applications, such as motorized equipment, HVAC systems, and enclosed power sources.
When selecting fittings, look for those with insulated interiors to prevent damage to the wire during installation. Most fittings are designed for easy installation and are manufactured for durability and resistance to harsh environments.
Once you have determined the application and the environmental factors affecting the fitting (e.g., oil, salt water, and common solvents), you will be able to find the appropriate conduit fitting.
Your job isn’t finished yet, as you need to source your fittings, whether they are metallic or nylon, along with the necessary accessories for complete installation. Fortunately, reputable online suppliers offer a wide range of products to meet your needs.
Choose suppliers that provide a one-stop shopping experience so you don’t have to visit multiple stores for couplings, mounting brackets, finishing collars, lock nuts, and other essential parts. Purchasing your fittings and corresponding parts from a single supplier can often result in better deals and greater convenience.
