Electrical conduit types

An electrical conduit is a pipe used to protect and hide wires and cables in power lines, also known as a threading pipe. Its main function is not only to enhance electrical safety but also to provide a path for wires. There are many electrical conduit types, the most common ones include PVC, KBG, JDG, and SC, and the characteristics and application scope of each type are different.

Electrical conduit types

‌PVC pipe‌:

PVC electrical conduit pipe is a commonly used insulating conduit with the characteristics of light weight, insulation, flame retardant, durability and corrosion resistance. It is suitable for indoor construction and residential electrical wiring projects. It can be buried in concrete and is not damaged by pressure. Its environmental quality can meet the material use requirements of healthy and environmentally friendly homes. PVC pipes and fittings can be assembled and installed, making construction more convenient.

 

‌KBG pipe‌:

KBG pipe, also known as buckled thin-walled steel pipe, is made of galvanized steel pipe. It has the advantages of high tensile strength, good wear resistance, corrosion resistance, low price, and relatively simple and convenient installation. It is suitable for electrical line installation projects such as suspended ceilings and open installations, especially temporary or short-term buildings. KBG conduits have relatively poor adaptability to high-temperature environments.

 

‌JDG pipe‌:

JDG pipe is a conduit for electrical line protection and is mainly made of metal materials such as stainless steel and carbon steel. Compared with KBG pipe, JDG pipe is more corrosion-resistant and high-temperature resistant and is suitable for pipeline systems in highly corrosive and high-temperature environments, such as chemical, petroleum, and natural gas. The installation cost of a JDG pipe is relatively high, and it is often installed by welding, which requires professional welding technology to ensure the quality of the connection of the pipeline.

 

‌SC pipe‌:

SC pipe is a thick-walled galvanized steel pipe with high strength and light weight, and good fire resistance and shielding properties. It is suitable for communication control and network-integrated wiring pipe penetration and is generally used for outdoor cable piping in construction, machinery, chemical, power, and other fields. The construction process of SC pipe is complicated, and anti-corrosion and grounding treatments are required, which must meet the quality acceptance standards for electrical engineering construction.

How do you choose a suitable Electrical conduit?

1‌. Conduit material‌: Conduit materials with good electrical properties, corrosion resistance, high-temperature resistance, and cold resistance should be selected. Different use environments have different requirements for conduit materials. For example, metal electrical conduits are suitable for construction projects due to their excellent electrical properties, corrosion resistance, compression resistance, tensile resistance, and folding resistance. PVC pipes are suitable for outdoor environments, such as photovoltaic power generation systems, because of their lightness, durability, low cost, and excellent insulation, corrosion resistance, and weather resistance.

2. Pipe diameter size: Determine the pipe diameter size according to the specifications of the wires and cables to be protected to ensure that there is sufficient space inside the pipe. The choice of pipe diameter directly affects the protection effect of wires and cables and the use efficiency of the pipe.

3. Pipe wall thickness: The pipe wall thickness should comply with relevant standards to ensure that the conduit has sufficient mechanical strength and durability. The choice of pipe wall thickness is related to the structural strength and service life of the conduit.

4. Fixing method: Choose a conduit that is easy to fix and install for easy construction and maintenance. The convenience of installation and maintenance of the conduit has a direct impact on the construction period and subsequent maintenance costs.

5. Environmental adaptability: Consider whether the conduit is used in a continuously humid place? Is it exposed to high temperature for a long time? Under harsh climatic conditions, conduit materials with excellent UV resistance, such as solar series PVC pipes, should be selected to ensure stable and reliable performance.

6. Local specifications: Once the material and type of conduit are determined, it is necessary to understand the local requirements and regulations for such conduits. It is essential to purchase electrical conduit products that meet local standards to meet local installation requirements and avoid incurring additional fees.

7. Budget cost: While considering material costs, transportation and installation costs should also be considered. For example, metal conduits are heavier, resulting in increased transportation and installation costs, while PVC conduits are light, easy to construct, and easy to transport.

8. Specification quantity: Determine the number of wires or cables that need to be accommodated in a single conduit, as well as the estimated length and quantity required based on installation needs to avoid material waste.

9. Product brand: It is recommended to purchase reputable brands. The prices of electrical conduits on the market vary, but the quality varies greatly.