If you work in a damp, humid environment, you’ll want to use PullEase™ rust-resistant EMT from American Conduit. You might think steel is the only material you’d ever want for your conduit installation needs. But aluminum – especially our aluminum – is just as strong. In fact, it’s superior to steel in many ways.
What Makes Aluminum Rust Resistant?
Aluminum resists rust better than steel because it has a naturally occurring oxide layer on its surface. This oxide layer, formed when aluminum is exposed to oxygen, acts as a barrier that prevents further oxidation and corrosion. Additionally, aluminum has a lower density than steel, meaning it has a smaller surface area-to-volume ratio. This makes it less likely to form rust in comparison to steel.
Another reason is that aluminum does not contain iron, which means it can’t rust in the traditional sense. Iron rusts when it is exposed to water and oxygen, forming iron oxide. Since aluminum doesn’t contain iron, it doesn’t rust in the same way.
Furthermore, aluminum doesn’t degrade as easily as steel because it does not corrode in the same way. Instead of rusting, aluminum corrodes by forming the aforementioned thin layer of aluminum oxide on the surface of the metal. This oxide layer is much thinner than the rust that forms on steel, which means it does not degrade the metal nearly as quickly.
How Long Will Aluminum EMT Last?
In general, with proper installation, proper use, and maintenance, aluminum EMT can have a lifespan of more than 30 years.
The lifespan can vary depending on the specific product and the conditions in which it is used. In general, aluminum EMT is expected to last for many decades when used in typical residential and commercial applications.
Applications for PullEase™ EMT
PullEase™ EMT is perfect for a variety of residential and commercial applications, including the following:
- Electrical wiring – PullEase™ is used to protect and route electrical wiring in buildings and structures, making it a popular choice for residential and commercial construction projects.
- HVAC systems – PullEase™ is often used to run ductwork in HVAC systems as well, as it’s lightweight and easy to install.
- Lighting systems – Aluminum EMT can run wiring for lighting systems in buildings and structures, so it’s excellent for indoor and outdoor lighting applications.
- Data and communication systems – EMT is also commonly used to run cabling for data and communication systems, such as telephone and internet lines.
- Industrial and commercial applications – EMT is an excellent option for industrial and commercial applications, such as factories, warehouses, and office buildings.
- Outdoor environments – Aluminum EMT is suitable for outdoor use as it is corrosion-resistant. It’s often used in damp or humid outdoor environments where steel EMT would be at risk of rusting.
- Marine environments – EMT can be used in marine environments, such as ships and offshore platforms, as it is corrosion-resistant and lightweight.
- Food processing plants – EMT can be used in food processing plants, as it is corrosion-resistant and easy to clean.
Ready to Learn More?
The experts with American Conduit are ready to answer whatever questions you might have regarding PullEase™ rust-resistant EMT. You can call us at 1 (800) 334-6825 or use our convenient online contact form to get in touch.