Do you know what a flexible metal conduit is?

Flexible metal pipes are flexible metal conduits used for line protection. The material of the flexible metal pipe is the outer layer is wound by hot-dip galvanized steel strip, and the inner wall is an insulating resin layer.

Basics of flexible metal conduit:

Flexible metal conduits are made from steel or aluminum by coiling a self-interlocking ribbed strip of the metal. This forms a tube. The diameter of this tube can vary and different end applications call for different diameter tubes. Wires are pulled through this tube and are thereby protected from damage, both internal and external.

The tubing is flexible and can bend to fit your installation application. Unlike rigid conduits where you either have to manually bend the conduit to a fixed position or buy a pre-bent conduit, the flexible metal conduit can change its shape as you install it and as repairs or changes need to be made. The word flexible in its name may refer to its ability to flex in a given situation, but it also can refer to the flexibility it offers in your installation.

Characteristics of flexible metal pipes:

1. The outside of the flexible metal tube is wound by a metal band, so it has excellent flexibility.

2. The outer metal strip of the flexible metal tube has corrosion resistance, tensile resistance and wear resistance.

3. The inner wall of the insulating resin layer of the flexible metal tube can withstand high temperatures.

Location of Installation:

Flexible metal conduits are primarily used in dry applications although FMC is available with a UV resistant polymer that makes it watertight. Appropriate liquid tight fittings are required when using this type of conduit in a wet application.

Flexible metal conduits can be installed in most of the same places that rigid conduits are installed.