In this note, we are discussing the Difference Between Metal and PVC Conduit Wiring. And Also a short note about Metal Conduit and PVC Conduit. Welcome to Poly Notes Hub, your leading destination for Polytechnic Notes.
Author Name: Arun Paul.
What is Metal Conduit ?
It is a system of tubes or pipes used in electrical installations to safeguard and route electrical wiring. Usually constructed of steel or aluminum, its purpose is to protect electrical lines from physical harm, moisture, and fire threats.
In order to shield electrical wiring from the environment and inadvertent damage, this conduit acts as a protective shell for the wires and cables. There are several different kinds of metal conduit, including flexible metal conduit (FMC, sometimes known as “greenfield”), intermediate metal conduit (IMC), and rigid metal conduit (RMC).
The strongest and most protective material is rigid metal conduit (RMC). It is usually utilised in harsh settings when there is a need for extreme physical protection or fire resistance. While flexible metal conduit (FMC) can bend and is more versatile in circumstances requiring some flexibility, intermediate metal conduit (IMC) strikes a compromise between strength and ease of installation.
It is frequently used in commercial, industrial, and even some residential settings where strong protection against moisture, damage, and other risks is needed for the wiring. It is frequently selected due to its strength, resilience to adverse circumstances, and adherence to safety and building rules.
What is PVC Conduit ?
A system of plastic tubes or pipes used in electrical installations for the purpose of protecting and routing electrical wiring is known as PVC conduit. Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is a kind of plastic that is renowned for its resilience to moisture, chemicals, and corrosion.
Electrical cables are protected from the elements, physical harm, and unintentional interference by this conduit system, which encloses them. There are several varieties of this type of which are available, such as flexible and rigid conduit.
It is widely used in light industrial, commercial, and residential applications because it is inexpensive, easy to install, and resistant to moisture and corrosion. It works especially effectively in applications where affordability and ease of installation are crucial considerations. PVC conduit is also frequently used because of its minimal maintenance requirements and longevity, and it complies with electrical rules in many areas.
Difference between Metal and PVC Conduit
Although PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and Metal Conduit are both used in many applications to route and protect electrical cabling, they differ greatly in a few key ways:
| Metal Conduit | PVC Conduit |
|---|---|
| 1. Made of Steel or Aluminum. | 1. Made of Plastic |
| 2. Lost lasting | 2. Not Long lasting |
| 3. Less flexible | 3. More flexible |
| 4. Expensive | 4. Less expensive |
| 5. Used in Industrial and Commercial sections. | 5. Used in Residential sections. |