Steel Conduit And Electrical Metallic Tubing

Steel conduit and electrical metallic tubing (EMT) are robust steel-based enclosures designed to route individual electrical conductors within buildings and structures, while shielding the wiring against physical impact, moisture intrusion, and chemical vapors.

Conduit systems are categorized by three key parameters: wall thickness, mechanical rigidity, and base material. Rigid metal conduit (RMC) is a heavy-walled, threaded tubing variant, typically fabricated from coated steel, stainless steel, or aluminum. Galvanized rigid conduit (GRC) consists of galvanized steel tubing with a wall thickness sufficient to accommodate threading. Intermediate metal conduit (IMC) is a thinner, lighter alternative to RMC. For highly corrosive environments, PVC-coated steel conduit is the preferred solution. Complementary components include elbows, threaded couplings, and nipples.

As conduit installation must comply with the National Electrical Code® (NEC) and all relevant local regulations, industry members draft and submit proposals for updates to the NEC, International Code Council (ICC) codes, and other governing standards.

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