If you’ve been disappointed by your previous aluminum EMT & conduit suppliers in Durham, NC, it’s time for you to give American Conduit a try. Did your old supplier run out of conduit? Did you have to deal with expensive downtime as a result? That won’t happen when you turn to us. We have a virtually unlimited supply – about a million pounds – on hand at all times. Once you try American Conduit, you’ll never want to work with another supplier.
Why You Should Use Aluminum EMT Instead of Steel RMC
Aluminum EMT and steel RMC (Rigid Metal Conduit) are two types of conduit used in electrical installations. While they both serve the same purpose of protecting electrical wires and cables, there are some key differences between the two. Here are some of the main differences between aluminum EMT and steel RMC:
Material Composition
The most obvious difference between aluminum EMT and steel RMC is the material composition. Aluminum EMT is made of lightweight, corrosion-resistant aluminum, while steel RMC is made of heavier, more durable steel. This difference in materials affects the weight and handling of the conduit, as well as the cost and durability.
Corrosion Resistance
One of the advantages of aluminum EMT is its resistance to corrosion. Aluminum is highly resistant to rust and other forms of corrosion, which makes it a good choice for outdoor or wet environments. steel RMC, on the other hand, is susceptible to rust and corrosion, which can lead to deterioration of the conduit and potential safety hazards.
Cost
Aluminum EMT is generally less expensive than steel RMC, due to the lower cost of materials and the ease of handling and installation. However, the cost difference may not be significant enough to make a difference in all installations, and other factors such as durability and corrosion resistance may be more important considerations.
Ease of Installation
Aluminum EMT is easier to handle and install than steel RMC, due to its lighter weight and the ability to bend and cut the conduit using simple hand tools. Steel RMC, on the other hand, requires heavier equipment and specialized tools for cutting and bending, which can make the installation process more complex and time-consuming.
Electrical Conductivity
Both aluminum EMT and steel RMC are good conductors of electricity, but aluminum has a higher conductivity than steel. This means that aluminum EMT may be a better choice for installations where conductivity is a consideration, such as in large commercial or industrial applications.
Environmental Considerations
Aluminum is a highly recyclable material, making aluminum EMT a more environmentally friendly choice than steel RMC. Additionally, the production of steel can be more energy-intensive than aluminum, which can impact the carbon footprint of the installation.
Both aluminum EMT and steel RMC have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the two will depend on the specific requirements of the installation. Ultimately, the choice of conduit will depend on factors such as the environment, electrical requirements, and budget of the installation.
What Makes Us the Best?
There are a lot of reasons why American Conduit is the undisputed leader among aluminum EMT & conduit suppliers in Durham, NC. See for yourself by using our convenient online contact form, or by giving us a call at 1-800-334-6825 whenever you like.