Cable Protection Specialists
Which flexible conduit to use?
What would happen if your cabling failed?
Conduit is needed in most environments where wiring is vulnerable to damage, vandalism or protection against the elements is needed, within our range we will have the conduit that is best suited to your installation, offering protection such as, UV resistant, LSOH (Low smoke zero halogen), UL recognised, CE, low fire hazard, flame retardant, oil & solvents resistant, vermin resistant, liquid tight, halogen free, RoHS & REACH compliant.
There are many different types of conduits for you to choose from, and it’s important that the right conduit is used to ensure the right protection is being offered, and to maximising your value for money. If you need any guidance or advice get in contact with the team.
There are two main common types of flexible conduit Non Metallic (Plastic) and Metallic (Metal)
Which type of flexible conduit is best?
Flexible conduits provide an inherent mechanical barrier for vulnerable electrical cables, wiring, and fibre optics. Without an effective form of cable management, they will be exposed to external elements and are at serious risk of wear and tear.
Flexible, rigid, metallic, non-metallic, split, non-split – they are all types of conduit that come with their own unique features and benefits for specific installations.
As a specialist supplier of metallic and plastic conduit solutions, we’re confident that you’ll find the products you need to protect and contain electrical cables here at Tricksall.
which conduit is best for what you need?
Below we look at the different types of flexible conduits including their pros and cons.
Metallic vs. non-metallic flexible conduits
Both types of conduits are designed to provide the same level of protection as rigid conduits and are typically used in installations where flexibility is required.
Pros of metallic conduits
Flexible metal conduits (FMC) have a spiral construction that makes them easier to snake through walls and other structures.
They are super simple to install and can be twisted and turned without the need for any additional hardware or specialist tools. Ideal for areas where rigid conduits prove difficult to install.
Suitable for dry indoor locations, flexible metal conduits protect electrical wiring in commercial and industrial buildings and are a brilliant choice for vibrating machines, i.e. heating and cooling units.
Liquid-tight metallic conduits (LFMC) – a special type of FMC – have a waterproof plastic coating which makes them perfect for outdoor use.
Cons of metallic conduits
Flexible metal conduit is designed for use where flexibility is required due to movement or vibration, or where bends and offsets make the installation process awkward. It’s not intended for use in wet locations unless conductors are specially approved for the conditions.
Besides short runs, for wiring outdoor air conditioning equipment and wiring under kitchen sinks, the use of LFMC in residence is pretty limited.
Metal conduits, particularly steel braided, are more expensive than other types of conduit systems.
Pros of non-metallic conduits
Non-metallic conduits are typically less expensive than metal flexible conduit and are made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride), PA6 Nylon, or polypropylene.
Polypropylene flexible conduits are non-corrosive and offer an economical solution for cable assemblies, underfloor wiring, and general cable tidying.
Available split, non-split and with a pre-installed draw cord., these corrugated conduits are lightweight and easy to install. They can withstand any toxic materials that pass through the cables, making them perfect for harsh environments. The split variety also makes it easy for you to insert and replace cables should they become damaged. With the draw cord option, you simply just pull the cable though the conduit.
PVC is a high-strength thermoplastic that’s extremely durable, resistant to weathering and chemicals, and doesn’t conduct electricity. It protects cables against punctures, cuts, and other damages, preventing electrical accidents further down the line.
PA6 Nylon is a specially modified polyamide that has countless advantages over steel braided conduit, including:
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ease of cutting and installation
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reduced installation time and costs
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no sharp edges, ensuring safer handling
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a high degree of mechanical protection
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suitable for static and dynamic applications
Cons of non-metallic conduits
One of the most notable disadvantages of PVC conduits, when compared to metallic flexible conduits, is their physical weakness.
PVC can break when exposed to physical stress, and it needs additional support when installed in longer cable runs to prevent sagging.
Though non-metallic conduits are an economical choice – and used to run cables below the ground or in an area exposed to dust and water – metal conduits are best suited to applications in the basement or garage. These can offer protection from rats, mice, and other impacts.
Do You Have An Enquiry?
Do you need a tailor-made quotation? or to discuss your specific requirements further?
Complete the below form or give us a call - 01530 637 137 or Email - sales@tricksall.works