What is an Electrical Conduit?

An electrical conduit is a tube used to protect and provide a path for electrical wiring in a building or structure.Conduit is generally provided for concealed and opened wiring or where it might be subject to damage. An electrical conduit is usually made up of metal, plastic or fiber. Conduits are classified on the basis of the thickness of the wall. Choices of the conduit will depend on their application, use, type of building etc. All conduits must be installed according to the National Electrical Code (NEC).

Metallic conduit is a very simple conduit. They are made from metal material. There are different types of metallic conduit that include:

Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC)

Rigid metal conduit (RMC) is a thick- heavy walled threaded tubing which frequently made of coated steel, galvanized steel, or aluminum. Rigid metal conduit is usually provided reliable protection from outdoors damage, and it can also provide structural support for electrical cables, panels, and other equipment.

Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC)

Intermediate metal conduit or IMC is a thinner and light-weight version of rigid metal conduit (RMC). IMC is a rigid steel electrical conduit which is designed for outdoor exposure and strong connection. It is designed to protect insulated electrical conductors and cables. IMC is approved for use in all applications as compared to a rigid metal conduit (RMC). Nowadays IMC used more commonly in new construction because Intermediate metal conduit (IMC) is lighter and easier than RMC.

Flexible Metal Conduit and Liquid-Tight Council Wiring(FMC and LFMC)

Flexible Metal Conduit (FMC):

Flexible metal conduit (FMC) is commonly referred to as “Greenfield”. It has a spiral construction that makes it easy to snake through the walls and other structures. The flexible metal conduit bends and twists easily without the use of any additional Electrical hardware or elbow joints, threading etc. FMC is very easy to install. Flexible metal conduit (FMC) is useful in those places where the rigid conduit is very difficult to install. Standard FMC is used in dry indoor locations. Flexible metal conduit is a good choice for vibrating equipment such as heating and air conditioning units.

Liquid-Tight Flexible Metal Conduit (LFMC)

Liquid-tight flexible metal conduit (LFMC) is a special type of flexible metal conduit (FMC).  LFMC is a flexible metallic conduit which is covered by the waterproof plastic coating. LFMC is extra flexible which is generally used in outdoor equipment, such as air conditioner units. It provides mechanical and moisture protection for conductors. The interior of LFMC is similar to the FMC.

Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT)

Electrical metallic tubing or EMT is another example of a rigid electrical conduit, which is usually made of galvanized steel or aluminum. Electrical metallic tubing (EMT) is also known as a “thin wall” because it is thin and light in weight, as compared to a rigid metal conduit (RMC). EMT is also very easy to install. The common sizes of EMT include 1/2-inch (12.7 mm), 3/4-inch (19.05mm), and 1-inch (25.4mm).