Conduit pipes are tubes that protect electrical wiring within a structure or building. The conduit pipes encase the electrical wiring to reduce friction, prevent moisture and keep the components safe from the outside elements. One of the main advantages of conduit pipes is that they are easy to maintain if ever you need to replace or repair them. If you are looking for a conduit pipe that will work underground for a variety of situations, here is how you can choose the best one.
1. Complicated Wiring Networks
Say, for example, you only have a small space to work with underground. Perhaps there is already other piping blocking the way. Based on the size and space you have available, you may need to look at flexible material that easily bends around sharp corners or tight spots. The material needs to be flexible enough, yet it must also be durable to withstand pressure, water damage, and the most dangerous chemicals known to man.
Flexible metal or electrical metallic tubing (EMT) are good options to work with in these instances. Even if there is a vibration from an earthquake, flexible conduit material won’t loosen or snap as easily. These types of conduit pipes are also most often used in residential construction where there will be a lot of other networks and pipes running underground.
2. Temperature Resistant
The type of conduit casing you choose makes the world of difference depending on where you reside in the world. Just because the pipes are underground, doesn’t mean they are safe from extreme hot or cold temperatures. If you live in a country where the weather is relatively the same all year round and doesn’t get too hot or cold either way, then traditional conduit pipes will do fine.
If, however, you reside somewhere that regularly sees snow or heat waves, then the best underground conduit to go with is fiberglass. Most underground electrical conduits are made of steel, PVC, metal, or aluminum but not all of them are resistant to severe temperatures.
3. Toxic Environments
Various instances require conduit pipes that are completely resistant to corrosion, rust, or decay from toxic materials. One example is a nuclear plant near a telecommunications office. If the waste from the plant were to seep into the conduit pipes, data cables and lines would be out of commission. This requires a flexible but strong pipe that can be submerged into concrete without getting damaged.
The strongest conduit piping is rigid PVC. They are made specifically for electrical components placed underground. Rigid PVC conduit pipes are also very easy to install and you won’t need special tools or machinery to get the job done.
Conduit pipes are very important for any underground installation of electrical wires. No matter the type, style, or size of a building, there needs to be power running everywhere. The earth below us isn’t safe from toxic chemicals, sun damage, or harsh weather conditions, but the electrical cables that we use daily can easily be protected.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
