Whether you’re brushing up on your electrical knowledge or are a complete newbie, you’re going to encounter conduits. But what exactly is a conduit?
The general meaning of ‘conduit’ is a pathway; so when we talk about electrical conduits, we are talking about pathways for wiring underneath buildings and houses, or on the surface of walls. They act as a sheath to protect wiring from external damage. Here are the most commonly used electrical conduits.
Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC & IMC)
One of the toughest conduits consists of thick walls and threaded tubing. Rigid Metal Conduits or RMCs are mainly used in outdoor settings. The strong protection they provide makes them ideal for wiring that’s outdoors.
The thick walls of RMC also protect the wiring from electromagnetic interference that could damage radiosensitive equipment.
A thinner and more widely used form of this conduit is the IMC or Intermediate Metal Conduit. IMC has the same protective properties as RMC but is lighter to work with making it a more popular alternative.
Electrical Metal Tubing (EMT)
EMTs are probably the most widely known conduits. Mostly because electrical metal tubing is used for exposed interior installations. The chances are that you’ve seen an EMT in your garage or basement.
Electrical metal tubing consists of unthreaded and thin-walled tubing. They are usually made of steel, although aluminum is a close second. EMC is widely used in commercial buildings but can be seen in homes as well. It is a popular choice since it is a considerably cheaper option.
EMTs are usually not installed in areas with high levels of moisture. Your electrician will evaluate the best place to fit electrical metal tubing on your property.
Did you know that the state of California has a set of guidelines for the proper and lawful installation of conduits in commercial and residential properties? We advise you to employ a professional electrician who is well-versed in the rules and has a good grasp on the different kinds of conduits available.
TD West Electric offers premium conduit installation and repair services handled by industry professionals. If you are looking to hire an electrician in Newark, CA., make sure to browse through our list of services and contact us for more information.
