Choosing Corrugated Conduit
Corrugated conduit is a staple item used by electricians to protect and route electrical wiring. It offers a cost-effective solution for complex installations that require flexible coverage. It also possesses several important features, such as moisture resistance and flame retardance. It is important to evaluate the basic needs of a specific project or installation when choosing a conduit product.
For example, if the conduit will be exposed to moisture or chemicals for a long period of time, a duct with a liquid-tight coating would be ideal. Other considerations include the size and material of the conduit. A heavy-duty conduit will be more durable than a medium-duty model, and it may also have additional features like EMI shielding.
To ensure a high quality product, it is recommended that electricians choose conduits with the NF mark. This is a quality certification that can be found on most types of conduit, and it indicates that the product meets certain minimum requirements for safety and durability. This is especially important for products that will be buried underground, as these rules are imposed to prevent damage from exposure to harsh conditions.
In addition to ensuring the quality of the product, it is also important to consider other factors when choosing a conduit, such as the application environment and the amount of flexibility required. For example, a heavy-duty conduit will be better suited for a direct buried application than a medium-duty one. This is because a heavy-duty conduit will have more crush resistance than a medium-duty one, making it less likely to be crushed under the weight of an object or vehicle driving over it.
A corrugated conduit has a number of other advantages over smooth wall conduit as well. For example, it has a low friction coefficient, which makes it easier to thread cables. In addition, it is more durable than other types of conduit and can withstand up to 750 Nt/5cm of compression. It is also resistant to impact, sunlight, and fire.
Corrugated conduits are available in a variety of sizes and colors, so it is easy to find a solution that will meet the unique requirements of an application. For example, a standard black conduit is suitable for most applications, while a gray or orange conduit is more suited to wet environments. It is also possible to purchase a conduit with a UV-resistant coating for added protection against the sun.
During the installation process, electricians should monitor the condition of the conduit. This can be done by visual observation or using a form such as A-1 to record measurements. The goal is to ensure that the conduit maintains its shape, which can be accomplished by comparing the design or theoretical cross section of the conduit with a field measurement. In addition to evaluating the shape of the conduit, a visual inspection should be conducted to ensure that it is free from defects such as flattening or peaking.
It is also important to note that the choice of conduit can have a significant impact on the final outcome of an electrical installation. A poor choice can lead to a dangerous situation, so it is essential that electricians take the time to choose a product that will provide the necessary protection for their installations.