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Why Use Electrical Conduit?

Author Archives: Anamet Electrical

  1. Why Use Electrical Conduit?

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    Why use conduit?

    Electrical shock is painful and can be injurious. Electrical conduit prevents contact with wiring and possible injury.

    What is electrical conduit?

    Electrical conduit is rigid or flexible tubing that protects electrical wiring. ANAMET Electrical, Inc. makes flexible electrical conduit conforming to “raceway of circular cross section made of helically wound, formed, interlocked metal strip” and “raceway of circular cross section having an outer liquid tight, non-metallic, sunlight resistant jacket over an inner metal flexible core.” These two definitions developed in the last 120 years in the NFPA 70®: National Electrical Code®.

    What are the advantages of electrical conduit?

    There are many ways to suffer injury or loss from poorly managed electricity. However, electrical conduit prevents contact between electrical wires and conductive or flammable material. Electrical conduit ensures a safe ground path for electricity and an armored route for electrical wiring and audio, video, telephone and internet cable.

    When buying a home or building an addition, an inspector usually examines construction to see if it is “up to Code,” so shortfalls or deviations from the safety code are known to the buyer and seller. This is because fire can be started by overcurrent demand and poorly installed, worn or aged wiring, when wiring overheats or causes a spark. Even if an older home previously passed an inspection, new standards may require new wiring or safety systems. Often, conduit is not replaced because new wires can be pulled through existing conduit to upgrade the electrical system. Large diameter electrical conduit provides options for future upgrade.

    Electrical conduit changes with technology and safety knowledge. ANAMET Electrical, Inc. made conduit to Code requirements for over 70 years. Founded in 1908 as American Metal Hose, ANAMET Electrical set standards for stripwound metal house used as flexible metal conduit. On April 18, 1949, Underwriter Laboratories listed SEALTITE®, the first liquid tight, flexible, electrical conduit, which is still in production at ANAMET Electrical, Inc.

    Both rigid and flexible electrical conduit can be seen on building sites, strung through walls and ceilings to protect wiring. “Flex” or “Greenfield” flexible metal conduit is approved for installation indoors in dry conditions. It protects wiring distributing power from a central grounding and bonding circuit-breaker box to outlets, appliances, controls and lights. Indoor conduit can be rigid or flexible, but they are not liquid tight, so water may degrade wiring.

    In contrast, liquid tight, flexible conduit has a metal or plastic core covered by thermosetting plastic. The plastic jacket protects wiring from liquids, temperature extremes and corrosive chemicals. The Code allows ground burial of liquid tight electrical conduit. Some utility companies recommend burial of electrical power lines inside plastic or plastic-jacketed conduit, due to the tree roots and their persistent intrusion into buried power lines. Burial of electrical power lines avoids use of power poles and pole-mounted transformers. Burial avoids wind, weather damage and weather-related power loss.

    Approved for outdoor use, liquid tight conduit protects wiring from the sun, wind and weather extremes. This conduit can be used to connect solar panels, air conditioners, heat pumps, wells, antennas, boathouses, garages, work sheds, greenhouses, hot tubs, swimming pools, irrigation controls, and outdoor sound and lighting systems.

    Why use Electrical conduit from ANAMET Electrical, Inc.?

    ANAMET Electrical persists in creating conduit that meets or exceeds safety requirements. Even if the conduit is not visible, choosing UL approved conduit ensures that safety is the first consideration to connect and protect wiring and cable. Electrical conduit fittings are designed to ensure a liquid tight connection. SEALTITE® electrical conduit fittings make sure water cannot enter the liquid tight conduit, ensuring safe connection of electrical power.

    When purchasing electrical conduit and fittings consider the conditions of use, future options and local code requirements. Save money and avoid unsafe conditions by working within the local code. If you need conduit in large quantities, contact us or request information today.

  2. What You Need to Know Before Buying Electrical Conduit

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    At ANAMET Electrical, Inc., we supply flexible electrical conduit to customers in various markets. As these components are designed to connect and protect electrical wiring, cables and other equipment, they play a critical role in many electrical and electronic applications. That’s why it is important to choose carefully when you need electrical conduit for your project. 

    This guide will explain what you need to know before buying conduit for your application. It provides an overview of what electrical conduit is, what types are available and what to consider before installing conduit.  

    What is Electrical Conduit?

    When electric lights were new to the world, existing pipes for gas light were used to route wiring to new electric light bulbs on existing light fixtures. The beginning National Fire Protection Association (1896) and  National Electrical Code (1897) preserved the idea of using pipe or tubing to protect electrified wiring. Electrical conduit is now tubing that electricians install to protect and route electrical wiring. It can be made from a variety of rigid or flexible materials, such as metal, PVC or thermosetting resin, depending on its intended use. Electrical conduit can be found in attics, basements, crawl spaces and on various interior and exterior spaces and surfaces. 

    What Types of Electrical Conduit Are Available?

    The National Electrical Code (NEC) defines the types of approved electrical conduit. This publication is frequently revised to keep up with innovative technology. States and municipalities decide how this Safety Code is applied or enforced. The requirements for electrical conduit are finely detailed. Electrical conduit can be rigid (metal, PVC or thermosetting resin) or flexible (metal (FMC), liquid tight metal (LFMC) and liquid tight non-metallic (LFNC). All conduit comes in a variety of sizes and there are limitations on how each type may be used.  

    • Rigid metal conduit is the heaviest and thickest conduit material option. It offers protection against mice and rats in basements, garages and similar environments. Due to its durability, it is commonly used in areas with extreme or harsh conditions. It is typically made from steel or aluminum, the latter of which is recommended for high-moisture environments since it resists corrosion. If the conduit must be installed around a corner, you may need a conduit bender, conduit couplings, offset fittings, and/or elbows.
    • Rigid PVC and thermosetting resin conduit are the lightest conduit material and the least expensive conduit option. It is used to protect electrical wiring from moisture and dirt. It is corrosion resistant, moisture resistant and non-conductive. It is used outdoors and below ground. It is commonly used for lawn irrigation controls and swimming pools. 
    • Flexible metal conduit (FMC) is called Greenfield or Flex in the building trades. It is recommended for dry locations indoors because it is not liquid tight. Its flexibility and lighter weight make it easier to install than rigid conduit. It is frequently used in the interior walls of houses and office buildings, cubicles and office ceilings (for connecting power to light fixtures). 
    • Liquid tight, flexible, metallic conduit (LFMC) is typically covered with a waterproof plastic coating to keep out moisture. Its flexibility enables it to be used in places with tight bends where rigid conduit would be hard to install. Typical uses include bridges, ground burial, paper mills, petrochemical facilities and water treatment plants.
    • Liquid tight, flexible, non-metallic conduit (LFNC) is suitable for use in dry, wet, or oily locations. It can be used in indoor or outdoor environments for industrial and commercial applications. Typical uses include ground burial, HVAC units, pools and spas. 

    What Should I Consider Before Installing Electrical Conduits?

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    You will need to purchase conduit connectors (fittings) to install a conduit system. Fittings allow conduit to be connected to an electrical junction box.

    If you are buying conduit fittings from a supplier for the first time, you should keep in mind the following considerations to make sure you are getting the best solution for your needs: 

    • What are your local Safety Code requirements? Although the National Electrical Code describes conduit installation for operating conditions, local inspectors may provide guidance that can save money and time on installation, inspection and approval for wiring and conduit installation.
    • Are the fittings the right size? The diameter of the fitting must match the diameter of the selected conduit to provide a secure and liquid tight connection.
    • How long does the conduit and fittings need to last? If the conduit only needs to be used until the next remodeling project, you may shop for less durable, lower cost conduit and fitting options.
    • Are the conduit and fittings made of material appropriate for the installation conditions? Conduit is made of a variety of materials, both metal and non-metal, for resistance to intrusion, corrosion and liquids. Fittings should be equally durable. For liquid tight conduit, choose liquid tight fittings with seals and rings.
    • Does the supplier offer the type of fittings I need? The supplier you choose should offer the fittings matching the conduit you need for your project.
    • Will the supplier deliver the fittings by the time I need them? The supplier should be able to deliver the connectors to you with the conduit you purchase.  
    • Can the supplier provide a customized solution? If your project has distinctive features, you should look for a supplier that can provide conduit and fittings so you can be sure of safe and secure electrical connection to your specifications and standards. 

    Why Partner With ANAMET Electrical for Your Electrical Conduit Needs?

    Operation of electrical equipment is dependent on safe, reliable and secure electrical connection. Electrical conduit protects electrical connections, which is why understanding what electrical conduit is, what types are available and what to consider before installing conduit is vital. 

    Looking for high-quality flexible electrical conduit and fittings? ANAMET Electrical has got you covered! We are an industry-leading provider of flexible electrical conduit and fittings. To learn more about our product offerings, check out our product catalog or contact us today. For specific product questions or pricing details, request a quote.

  3. When to Use Liquid-Tight Conduit

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    When To Use Liquid Tight Conduit

    An electrical conduit is a raceway that provides a protective pathway for electrical wires and cables to be run in any environment. There is a wide variety of electrical conduit to choose from and it’s important to choose the right one based on your application’s specifications and requirements.

    While manufacturers often suggest what kind of conduit to use, this blog will focus on the various applications for liquid tight flexible metal conduit, such as wet or moist environments, areas exposed to corrosive elements, settings prone to dust, dirt and various outdoor environments.

    Wet and Moist Environments

    Wet and Moist Environments

    Liquid tight conduit and fittings are specifically designed to keep wires and cables free of liquid or moisture. Humid, damp or wet environments that require cabling are ideal areas to use liquid tight conduit. Prime examples of these include car washes, water management facilities and food and beverage processing plants that must regularly hose down equipment. Liquid tight conduit will not only ensure the safety of the public and employees, but it also prolongs the life of cables and prevents electrical failures when used properly.

    When Cables May Be Exposed to Corrosive Elements

    When Cables May be Exposed To Corrosive Elements

    Liquid tight conduit is also an optimal choice for environments that are often exposed to corrosive elements. This type of conduit is not only capable of keeping out moisture, but it is also effective at sealing out harmful substances that can deteriorate wires and cables. This is highly beneficial for applications such as HVAC units, chemical facilities and other areas that are prone to corrosive substances.

    Various External Applications

    Various External Applications

    Any electrical installation that is exposed to the outside world can cause potential problems. UV rays and other outdoor elements can cause breakage and other types of damage. Using liquid tight flexible metal conduit protects cables and wires from sun exposure, extreme temperatures, moisture and other outdoor elements to prolong their lives and prevent damage.

    Dirty or Dusty Areas

    Dirty or Dusty Areas

    Dirt, dust and other tiny particles can cause short circuits and faulty equipment operation when wires and connections are not protected. For agricultural operations, textile plants, wood/pulp/paper mills and more, a sealed, liquid tight conduit can protect against dust and particulate infiltration.

    An added benefit of flexible metal conduit is their ability to bend. Compared to rigid conduit, flexible metal conduit bends easily, making it a suitable option for applications where rigid conduit would be too difficult to install.

    Liquid Tight Flexible Metal Conduit from Anamet Electrical

    Flexible, liquid tight conduit is not only flexible by design, but it is also flexible in its uses. Protecting wires from liquids, corrosive elements, dust and physical damage are all advantages offered by a liquid tight conduit. For over 100 years, Anamet Electrical, Inc has been a preferred provider of flexible liquid tight electrical wiring conduit for a wide range of industries, including power distribution, construction, OEMs, government, mass transit, utility, petrochemical, food processing and chemical processing. We are dedicated to providing superior service and high-quality products.

    For more information about liquid tight flexible metal conduit and fittings, or to get started on your next large-scale electrical installation, contact us or request information today.

  4. IDW Compliance Badge

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    IDW Compliance BadgeAnamet Electrical, Inc. is proud to announce that we have recently achieved at least 95% compliance within IDEA’s Data Certification Program.

    This program was designed to measure the item-level completeness and quality of the data available within the Industry Data Warehouse (IDW). It focuses on the population of critical data fields that contain transactional and descriptive product information you need to conduct business and sell our products (e.g. brand, packaging, price effective date, etc.).

    Our achievement indicates that at least 95% of our products in the IDW have these critical fields fully populated. As an IDW user, you are now able to extract this data from the IDW, knowing the data Anamet is providing to you through the IDW is complete. At Anamet Electrical, Inc., we are committed to effective and efficient eBusiness, and we look forward to continuing our relationship with you!