Rigid aluminum metal conduit (RMC) is a better choice than rigid steel conduit for realizing greater material and installation savings, superior durability, and better performance. American Conduit has nearly 1 million pounds of aluminum conduit in stock and ready to ship.
American Conduit is part of the world’s largest supplier of aluminum extrusions and the largest aluminum extruder in North America, Hydro. We have over 35 years of experience in manufacturing a comprehensive line of aluminum conduit in a variety of lengths and diameters to suit even your most complex applications.
Aluminum vs Steel: Cost
Cost is an essential part of any project. If you’ve been operating under the misconception that aluminum RMC is more expensive than steel RMC, it is time to reexamine the facts. Today, aluminum offers cost per foot savings of 10% to 20% and labor savings of 35% to 75% compared to rigid steel. The lighter material weight of aluminum also translates to lower shipping costs.
Aluminum vs Steel: Corrosion Resistance
Aluminum’s greatest attribute is that, unlike steel, it is corrosion resistant without any further treatment. It doesn’t require galvanizing, and there is no paint or coating to wear or scratch off. This is most beneficial when your application involves a moist, damp or abrasive environment. Rigid aluminum metal conduit 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 tunnels, bridges, parking garages and other outdoor construction areas involving infrastructure.
Aluminum vs Steel: Weight Difference
Steel is strong and unlikely to warp or bend due to weight, force or heat. However, it is much heavier and much denser than aluminum. Aluminum RMC is easier to transport and requires less effort to lift, move and install because it is only one-third the weight of steel. This results in additional shipping and labor savings, as well as improvements in the health and safety of workers.
Aluminum vs Steel: Non-sparking & non-combustible
Unlike steel, aluminum RMC is non-sparking and does not burn, eliminating the risk of explosion or fire in highly flammable environments. This is particularly important in refineries, coal mines, waste water treatment facilities and grain elevators.
Aluminum vs Steel: Conductivity
Aluminum is an excellent conductor of both heat and electricity (second only to copper and half its weight), and offers many shielding and protective qualities. It is ideal in cold-weather applications because cold strengthens the metal, but it will stay cool to the touch even in high temperatures.
Aluminum vs Steel: Reflective & Non-magnetic
Aluminum can be used to reflect visible light and radiated heat, making it extremely effective as an electrical conduit. It is also non-magnetic and useful for high-voltage applications and anywhere magnetic fields come into play.
Aluminum vs Steel: 100% Recyclable
Aluminum is a 100% recyclable and sustainable metal. Nearly 75% of all aluminum ever produced is still in use today because it can be infinitely recycled into new raw material without losing any of its superior characteristics.
American Conduit has the ability to meet your demands for aluminum RMC conduit. Our solutions are designed and engineered to meet all of your application challenges. Get in touch with us to learn more, or request a quotation today.