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EMT vs. Rigid Conduit

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R

ruxton.stanislaw

Senior Member
Location
Arkansas
Occupation
Laboratory Engineer

EMT vs. Rigid Conduit: Choosing the Right Path for Your Electrical Project​

In the US, electrical projects rely on two main types of conduit for wire protection: EMT (Electrical Metallic Tubing) and rigid conduit. While both offer similar functionality, key differences determine which is better suited for a particular job.

EMT - The Lightweight Champ:

  • Pros: Easier to bend and install due to thinner walls. Lighter weight simplifies handling and reduces labor costs. More affordable than rigid conduit.
  • Cons: Not as strong - susceptible to crushing or damage from impact. Not suitable for harsh environments or exposed locations. Reliant on clamps for connections, adding installation time.
  • Applications: Ideal for indoor runs in dry, protected areas like walls, ceilings, and under raised floors. Commonly used in commercial and industrial settings.
Rigid Conduit - The Heavy Duty Defender:

  • Pros: Extremely strong and crush-resistant. Well-suited for harsh environments, both indoors and outdoors. Offers superior protection against physical impact. Threaded connections ensure a secure and reliable fit.
  • Cons: Heavier and more challenging to bend or manipulate, requiring specialized tools. Installation is labor-intensive and expensive compared to EMT.
  • Applications: Perfect for areas prone to physical damage, like concrete slabs, underground runs, or exposed locations outdoors. Ideal for large gauge wires or applications requiring electromagnetic interference shielding.
Key Differences in a Nutshell:

  • Strength: Rigid reigns supreme for withstanding heavy impacts and harsh conditions.
  • Weight & Installation: EMT's lighter weight and easier bending make installation faster and less labor-intensive.
  • Cost: EMT is a more budget-friendly option compared to rigid conduit.
  • Applications: Rigid excels in exposed or hazardous areas, while EMT shines in protected indoor runs.
Remember: Always consult the National Electrical Code (NEC) and a qualified electrician to determine the appropriate conduit type for your specific project requirements.
 
R

ruxton.stanislaw

Senior Member
Location
Arkansas
Occupation
Laboratory Engineer
macmikeman said:
Yea I have a question, how much in USA dollars has the price of GRC risin just during the last two years till now.?
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Unfortunately, I cannot provide a definitive answer on the exact percentage or dollar amount increase in galvanised rigid conduit (GRC) prices over the last two years in the US.

Here's why:
  • Market Fluctuations: Prices for construction materials like GRC fluctuate based on various factors like steel prices, supply chain issues, and regional demand.
  • Distributor Variations: Pricing can vary significantly between electrical distributors depending on their stock levels, bulk purchase discounts, and geographic location.
However, I can offer some suggestions to help you estimate the price increase:

  1. Electrical Distributor Inquiry: Contact a local electrical distributor and inquire about the current price of GRC compared to what it was two years ago. They might be able to give you a ballpark figure for the increase.
  2. Price Index Research: Look for electrical construction material price indexes. Organizations like RSMeans or Producer Price Indexes (PPI) by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) might offer historical data on conduit pricing.
Additional Resources:
  • National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA): https://www.nema.org/ - Industry association that might have resources on conduit pricing trends.
  • Electrical Contractor Magazines: Industry publications might have articles discussing recent trends in electrical material costs.
By combining information from these resources, you should be able to get a better understanding of how much GRC prices have increased in the last two years.
 
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