Flexible Conduit
Flexible Conduit is an adaptable type of electrical raceway used to protect conductors where rigidity isn't feasible or desirable. Unlike rigid pipe, flexible conduit is constructed from helically wound metal strips (forming Flexible Metal Conduit or FMC) or durable plastic materials (like Liquid-tight Flexible Non-Metallic Conduit or LFNC)
Flexible conduit's primary advantages are its ability to:
- Accommodate Movement: It's essential for wiring connections to motors, machinery, and equipment that vibrate, move, or require frequent servicing, preventing conductor fatigue and breakage.
- Navigate Obstacles: Its bendable nature allows electricians to route wires around tight corners, obstructions, and unconventional building geometries where stiff pipe cannot be installed.
- Provide Liquid Protection (LFMC/LFNC): Liquid-tight versions feature a waterproof jacket, making them necessary for outdoor use or in wet environments like HVAC installations and food processing facilities.
In short, flexible conduit provides robust mechanical protection while preserving the necessary mobility and routing convenience, ensuring safety and compliance in dynamic installations.
