When it comes to protecting your electrical systems, it’s important to choose the right conduit. Conduits shield cables from impact, moisture, corrosion and other hazards, keeping your installation safe and compliant.
Read on as we walk you through the main types of electrical conduit, their benefits and how to pick the right one for your job.
What is an electrical conduit and why does it matter?
An electrical conduit is simply the pipe, tube or channel you use to protect and contain cables and wires. It’s more than just a plastic or metal cover. It protects wiring from damage, corrosion, moisture and even fire risk.
Choosing and installing the right conduit ensures that you’re complying with UK regulations and avoiding costly issues down the line.
Four main types of electrical conduit
Whether you’re wiring your home, a commercial space or an industrial installation, the right conduit makes all the difference.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the four main types of electrical conduit to help you choose the best option for your project.
PVC conduit
PVC conduit systems are lightweight, non-metallic tubes. They’re used to move, guide and protect electrical wiring. Resistant to corrosion, they insulate all electrical wires and are affordable, making them a popular choice for both domestic and commercial jobs.
Best for indoor or light-duty use, they’re not as durable as metal and can’t be used for earthing. If you want to use a PVC conduit outdoors, check first that it’s UV-resistant and strong enough for the environment.
Polypropylene (PP) conduit
Polypropylene conduit is a great choice when you need a flexible, tough and eco-friendly solution. A non-metallic option, it’s used to manage cables that need space to move. It works well in both industrial and commercial environments, especially if there is vibration or exposure to chemicals.
PP conduit is lightweight and, more importantly, resistant to corrosion. It’s also able to handle a wide range of temperatures, making it a good choice for all sorts of demanding conditions.
Compared to standard PVC, polypropylene offers up to three times better impact resistance, as well as having UV-resistant or halogen-free options. However, since it’s non-metallic, it can’t be used for earthing and it might cost slightly more than PVC.
Nylon conduit
Nylon conduit is a flexible, non-metallic option that’s easy to install. It’s usually used in offices, machinery and modular setups where cables are frequently moved or upgraded. With a corrugated design, it’s simple to bend and fit into tight spaces, reducing the need for extra fittings.
Although it doesn’t offer the same strength as metal, it’s great for flexible jobs that need straightforward installation and flexibility.
Metal conduit
Metal conduit, such as galvanised steel or stainless steel, has the highest level of protection. It’s ideal for handling heavy-duty or exposed environments, including factories, outdoor areas and underground installations. Metal conduit is also great for earthing and is a strong shield against electrical interference.
Although it’s heavier and more expensive than plastic, metal conduit is unbeatable in strength and durability. You’ll need specialised tools for cutting and fitting, along with proper rust prevention treatment.
How to choose the right conduit: key factors to consider
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to conduits. You need to make sure that you are using the right one for your project. So, when deciding which conduit type to use, there are a few key factors to think about:
Installation environment
Where will your conduit be used? It will have different needs depending on whether it’s meant for an indoor or outdoor setup.
Consider the risks too. For example, impact, vibration, moisture, chemicals or extreme temperatures. Choosing the right conduit will keep your wiring safe and secure, as well as coping with the challenges of its environment.
Electrical needs
You should also think about your electrical needs. Does the conduit need to act as protective earthing or provide shielding against electrical interference?
Metal conduits can offer grounding and EMI protection, while plastic ones can’t.
Flexibility
If your project involves lots of bends, tight spaces or future upgrades, flexible conduit is the best choice. It’s easy to route around obstacles and perfect for setups that might change in the future.
Ideal for offices, modular layouts or any space where flexibility matters.
Compliance & standards
Safety and compliance should always be a priority. It’s essential that the conduit you choose meets the right standards for safety and reliability. In the UK, look for compliance with BS EN 61386 (which sets out performance and testing requirements for conduit systems) and BS 7671 (the Wiring Regulations). Following these standards will mean that you stay compliant with all legal requirements.
UK regulations and standards
Let’s dig into that last point a little more. In the UK, all electrical conduit systems must meet strict safety and performance standards. The main regulations to know are:
BS EN 61386 – Conduit Systems for Cable Management
This standard covers how conduit systems (metallic and non-metallic) should be tested and how they should work when used with cables up to 1,000V a.c. or 1,500V d.c.
It highlights specific parts for different conduit types, like rigid (Part 21) and buried systems (Part 24).
BS 7671 – Requirements for Electrical Installations (Wiring Regulations)
These requirements explain how conduits and ducts should be used to protect cables. It also includes when unarmoured cables can be safely buried.
It’s important to always choose conduits tested to BS EN 61386 and install in line with these requirements or local guidelines.
Make the right choice with GTSE
Choosing the right electrical conduit depends on where and how it will be used. Always ensure your choice meets UK standards to keep your installation safe, compliant and built to last.
Explore the full range of conduits at GTSE to find the perfect fit for your project.