Many companies have to make a choice when it comes to conduit, looking at the pros and cons of PVC conduit vs. EMT. If you have this or any questions concerning conduit, you can always turn to the professionals with American Conduit. We have a staff of experts who will be more than happy to help. We also have a million pounds of aluminum conduit in our warehouses at all times, and a network of more than 30 distributors across the country. When you need strong, reliable aluminum conduit – and you need it fast – you’ll always be able to count on us.
A Quick Comparison
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is more commonly associated with plumbing than conduit. PVC conduit is actually very similar to PVC pipe. Glue holds different lengths of PVC conduit in place, but you can still bend it when necessary by applying heat. PVC provides a watertight seal, making it suitable for damp or underground environments where moisture is always present. You can also use PVC in corrosive environments as well, because it will stand up to chemicals, salt water and other corrosive agents.
While PVC is strong and lightweight, it does have some drawbacks. Since it’s non-metal, PVC requires some sort of grounding conductor during installation. In addition, PVC won’t hold up under extremely hot or cold conditions. You also can’t use PVC in volatile environments because it emits toxic fumes if burned or melted.
EMT (electrical metallic tubing) shares many of the same attributes as PVC. It’s also very lightweight, and very easy to maneuver and install. While primarily designed for indoor use, EMT can be used outdoors in certain circumstances. However, all fittings and fasteners must be made out of corrosion-resistant materials.
Aluminum EMT offers certain advantages over PVC. The most important is that it’s much safer. It won’t produce toxic fumes like PVC – for that matter, it won’t emit sparks like steel (You’ll learn more about why aluminum is superior to steel in the next section). So no matter how volatile the environment may be, aluminum will not pose any sort of risks to your workers.
Other Reasons Aluminum EMT is Better Than Steel
You may be considering steel as well as PVC for your conduit needs. However, if you really want the best value, you should use aluminum instead. These are just a few of the many advantages aluminum has over steel.
- Aluminum is much more cost effective than steel. It’s 30 percent lighter, so you won’t be paying as much for materials. Labor savings are another consideration. A 10-foot section of aluminum EMT only weighs about 34 pounds, while the same length of steel EMT weighs more than 60 pounds heavier. You can assign one worker to install aluminum EMT, whereas you’d probably need at least two workers to install steel EMT.
- Steel corrodes over time unless it has an expensive zinc coating. Aluminum, on the other hand, is naturally resistant to corrosion.
- Unlike steel, aluminum suppresses electromagnetic interference. You won’t have to worry about that interference damaging any of your sensitive electronics.
Ready for More Information? Get in Touch With Us
The professionals with American Conduit can tell you more about the comparison of PVC conduit vs. EMT, or can answer any other questions. Call 1-800-334-6825 or contact us online and we’ll be glad to help.