Galvanized steel
The galvanized steel conduit is entirely rigid to provide useful protection for the electrical wiring. This method is most common in industrial or commercial electrical installation. The typical length of the conduit is in the region of 10 to 20 feet, and multiple pieces are easily threaded together. Plus, it is easy to protect against corrosion by applying the right protecting paint. It is one of the thickest and heaviest in weight to make it a practical choice for the most difficult environments.
Metallic
Metallic tubing (also referred to as EMT) is mostly made of aluminum or steel. It is more cost-effective and lighter than the alternatives in galvanized steel. This conduit is flexible to give more freedom in installation and a popular choice with industrial and commercial buildings. Also, the outer surface is naturally corrosion resistance, so there isn’t any need to provide a special coating.
Electrical non-metallic
The electrical non-metallic tubing is made of a thin, corrugated type material that is flame retardant and moisture-resistant. It has high flexible properties and is easily shaped by hand to fit the tight or awkward spaces. This is a perfect type of conduit for those in search of low labor costs and fast installation.
Flexible Metallic
The standard flexible metallic conduit is a practical choice for the dry environments and is simply a hollow tube with space for the electrical wires to pass through. There is also a liquid-tight flexible conduit in metal that has a waterproof coating. This is more practical for the damp locations and can be embedded in concrete or buried in other areas.
PVC
PVC is the most common type of conduit used for residential and commercial installations. It is a very affordable option and the PVC pipes are thick to give a useful amount of protection. PVC is naturally able to avoid issues with corrosion and resists moisture.
Aluminum Electrical
The aluminum conduit is a rigid option for the commercial applications and a practical option for areas that are prone to high moisture content. It is a useful choice to use in concrete slabs or walls, but cannot be buried in concrete because the alkali content in the cement can cause a negative reaction.