Choosing a Plastic Flexible Conduit
Plastic flexible conduit is a type of protective conduit that encases electrical wires and cables to shield them from impact, bending, and environmental hazards. This versatile product can be used to run and protect wiring in a variety of applications, such as lighting, heating, air conditioning, power outlets and more. It is available in both metal and non-metal versions and can be installed with compatible fittings, connectors, or straps. When selecting a plastic flexible conduit, it's important to consider the level of protection, durability and installation requirements of your specific application.
When choosing a plastic flexible conduit, it's essential to evaluate the level of protection that it offers for your cables or wires. Ideally, you should select a conduit that provides adequate impact resistance, corrosion resistance and UV protection to ensure your wiring stays safe from external threats. Moreover, the flexible conduit should be durable enough to withstand the rigors of the environment in which it will be installed. Additionally, the conduit should offer a watertight seal to prevent moisture and contaminants from damaging your wiring.
In addition to providing protection, plastic flexible conduit also helps to keep your wires and cables organized and routes them precisely where they are needed without entanglement. In fact, this type of flexible conduit is ideal for tight corners, curves and twisting turns that would be challenging or impossible with rigid conduit runs. In terms of installation, plastic flexible conduit is easy to install and requires no specialized heat-shaping or fitting at bend points like you would need for rigid conduit.
There are several different types of plastic flexible conduits to choose from, ranging from liquid-tight to flame retardant. Liquid-tight plastic conduit is a great choice for industrial and commercial settings, as it provides protection from water damage. In addition, the watertight plastic coating paired with IP67 rated liquid-tight conduit fittings create a waterproof seal that is suitable for wet locations and outdoor installations.
If you're looking for a conduit that offers a higher degree of flexibility, then you may want to consider flexible non-metallic conduit (FNC). This product is a lightweight alternative to jacketed metallic conduit and can withstand wet environments as well as high flexing applications. It is available in a range of colors and is compatible with UL and CSA connectors.
For a conduit that is ideal for applications that require low fire hazard, you should choose zero-halogen flexible conduit. This product is manufactured using polyurethane and emits low levels of toxic smoke and gases when it burns. It is also ideal for wet locations and outdoor applications that will be exposed to sunlight.
When installing flexible conduit, it is essential to consult the local electrical codes and regulations as well as follow the manufacturer's instructions for your particular system. When in doubt, you should always contact a licensed electrician for assistance. In addition, you should take steps to ensure that the flexible conduit is secured tightly with the appropriate fittings and connectors and is properly supported to prevent sagging.