Some aluminum EMT and conduit suppliers in Charlotte, NC will abandon you after the sale. But that’s now how we do business at American Conduit. We want you to get the most out of your purchase. For example, here’s a look at the best practices for storing aluminum conduit to protect your investment and avoid potential issues down the line.
Choose the Right Storage Location
The first step in properly storing aluminum conduit is selecting an appropriate storage location. Aluminum conduit is known for its corrosion-resistant properties, but it’s still important to keep it in a dry, sheltered environment. Avoid storing it outdoors where it may be exposed to excessive moisture, rain or standing water.
If you’re storing aluminum conduit indoors, choose a well-ventilated area to prevent any buildup of humidity, which could also lead to unnecessary oxidation. Warehouses or storage units with controlled environments are ideal for ensuring the longevity of the conduit.
Avoid Direct Contact with the Ground
Keeping the conduit off the ground also helps maintain airflow around the materials, reducing the risk of condensation forming on the surface of the aluminum. Raising the conduit off the ground also protects it from accidental damage from forklifts or other equipment that may pass through storage areas.
Use Proper Stacking Techniques
When storing aluminum conduit, it’s important to use proper stacking techniques to avoid warping, bending, or denting the material. Aluminum conduit is lightweight and relatively easy to handle, but improper stacking can still lead to damage. Ensure that conduit lengths are stacked neatly in layers, with sufficient support underneath to prevent sagging.
If you’re stacking multiple layers of conduit, make sure that the layers are aligned evenly and that the weight is distributed across a stable surface. It’s also a good practice to separate layers of conduit with wooden or plastic spacers to prevent direct metal-to-metal contact, which can cause scratches or other surface damage.
Label and Organize Your Inventory
Proper organization and labeling of your aluminum conduit inventory can save you significant time and effort during installation. After purchase, make sure each batch of conduit is clearly labeled with relevant information, including size, length and type. This will make it easier to locate the specific conduit you need when the time comes for installation.
In addition, organizing your inventory by project or conduit type can streamline the retrieval process, especially if you have multiple ongoing projects that require different materials. Maintaining an organized storage area not only reduces the risk of accidentally damaging the conduit but also improves efficiency for your team.
Protect from Physical Damage
While aluminum conduit is durable, it’s still important to protect it from physical damage while in storage. Ensure that the storage area is clear of sharp objects, heavy machinery or tools that could fall onto the conduit and cause dents, scratches or other forms of damage. Installing barriers or designated storage racks can help keep the conduit safe from accidental impacts.
In high-traffic areas of the storage facility, consider placing protective covers or wraps over the conduit to shield it from dust, dirt and other debris that could accumulate during storage.
See what separates American Conduit from other aluminum EMT and conduit suppliers in Charlotte, NC. You can learn more by using our online form or calling 1-800-334-6825.