If you have been operating under the misconception that rigid aluminum conduit is more expensive than rigid steel conduit, it is time to reconsider. American Conduit can help you save thousands of dollars while maintaining high performance on your next project.
A comprehensive study that examined the North American electrical conduit market and compared aluminum and steel material systems found that aluminum conduit is a more cost-effective than its steel counterpart and can replace rigid steel conduit in virtually all locations.
American Conduit is a product brand of the world’s largest supplier of aluminum extrusions and the largest aluminum extruder in North America. We offer customers over 35 years of experience in the manufacture of rigid aluminum conduit and aluminum electrical metallic tubing. With 20 stocking warehouses and 33 representatives nationwide, our distribution network can meet your most challenging requirements.
Why Choose Aluminum Conduit?
Rigid aluminum conduit is less expensive than steel conduit based largely on the light weight of the material and the ease of installation, both of which impact the cost of the project.
- Cost per foot savings of 10% to 20% versus rigid steel
- Labor savings of 35% to 75% versus rigid steel
- Less expensive to ship than rigid steel
- One-third lighter in weight than steel and easier to maneuver
- Tough natural protective oxide layer
- Naturally rust and corrosion resistant without additional treatment
- Resists most corrosive atmospheres and industrial environments
- Does not spark like steel, reducing the risk of explosion
- Improved thermal and electrical conductivity
- Non-magnetic
- Better worker health and safety
- Environmentally friendly, sustainable and 100% recyclable
- National Electric Code® (NEC) compliant
- Meets Article 500 hazardous area requirements
- Adheres to UL-6A, ANSI C80.5 and federal specification WW-C-540c
- Maintains physical properties even after extended outdoor exposure
- 6063 alloy, T-1 temper
- Available ½-inch to 6-inch
Because rigid aluminum conduit is one-third the weight of its steel counterpart, it is easier to transport and requires less effort to lift, move and install. This translates to additional cost savings in terms of shipping and labor as well as improvements in the health and safety of workers.
Aluminum is more durable than steel, and will not rust or discolor even after extended outdoor exposure, minimizing the dangerous conditions that arise when steel rusts out. This is particularly important with bridges, tunnels, parking garages and other outdoor construction areas involving infrastructure.
Unlike steel, rigid aluminum conduit is non-magnetic and non-sparking, which eliminates the risk of explosion from a spark or fire. This is particularly important in refineries, waste water treatment facilities, coal mines and grain elevators.
We invite you to review American Conduit’s case studies for examples of projects where aluminum conduit was substituted for steel conduit and resulted in substantial material and labor savings.
Rigid aluminum conduit is a smarter choice than rigid steel for achieving greater material and installation savings, better performance, and superior durability. Get in touch with American Conduit to find out more, or request a quotation today. We have nearly 1 million pounds of aluminum conduit in stock and ready to ship.