If you’re working with electrical wiring, you’ve probably heard of liquid tight and seal tight conduits. Both types of conduits are designed to protect wires and cables from moisture and other environmental factors, but they have some key differences. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right conduit for your specific needs.
Liquid tight conduit is a flexible, water-tight conduit that is typically made from a thermoplastic material. It is designed to protect electrical wires and cables from exposure to moisture, oil, and other environmental factors. Liquid tight conduit is commonly used in applications where the conduit will be exposed to water or other liquids, such as in outdoor environments or in wet locations like kitchens and bathrooms. It is also used in applications where the conduit needs to be flexible, such as in machinery or equipment that moves or vibrates.
Seal tight conduit, on the other hand, is a type of flexible metal conduit that is designed to be resistant to water, oil, and other environmental factors. It is typically made from galvanized steel or aluminum and is often used in industrial applications or in areas where the conduit will be exposed to harsh chemicals or other corrosive substances. Seal tight conduit is also commonly used in applications where the conduit needs to be flexible, such as in machinery or equipment that moves or vibrates.
Definition and Usage
When it comes to electrical wiring, there are various types of conduits that you can use to protect your cables. Two of the most commonly used types of conduits are Liquid Tight Conduit and Seal Tight Conduit. In this section, we will define and explain the usage of each type of conduit.
Liquid Tight Conduit
Liquid Tight Conduit, also known as Liquid Tight Flexible Metal Conduit (LFMC), is a type of conduit that is designed to protect cables from moisture and liquids. It is a flexible conduit that is made of a galvanized steel core, a PVC jacket, and a nylon cord that runs through the center of the conduit. The nylon cord helps to reinforce the conduit and provide additional strength.
Liquid Tight Conduit is commonly used in environments where cables are exposed to moisture, such as in outdoor applications or in areas with high humidity. It is also used in areas where cables are exposed to oil or chemicals.
Seal Tight Conduit
Seal Tight Conduit, also known as Sealtite Conduit, is a type of flexible metallic conduit that is used to protect electrical cables from moisture and liquids. It is made of a galvanized steel core that is covered with a PVC jacket. The PVC jacket is then covered with a liquid-tight sealant that provides additional protection against moisture and liquids.
Seal Tight Conduit is commonly used in areas where cables are exposed to moisture, such as in outdoor applications or in areas with high humidity. It is also used in areas where cables are exposed to oil or chemicals.
In summary, both Liquid Tight Conduit and Seal Tight Conduit are designed to protect cables from moisture and liquids. The main difference between the two is the materials used to make them. Liquid Tight Conduit has a nylon cord that reinforces the conduit and provides additional strength, while Seal Tight Conduit has a liquid-tight sealant that provides additional protection against moisture and liquids.
Comparison and Applications
Material Differences
Liquid tight and seal tight conduits are both flexible conduits that are used to protect electrical wires from moisture, dust, and other environmental factors. The main difference between the two is the material they are made of. Liquid tight conduits are typically made of a flexible PVC material, while seal tight conduits are made of a flexible metallic material.
The PVC material used in liquid tight conduits makes them more resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for use in damp or wet environments. On the other hand, the metallic material used in seal tight conduits provides greater protection against physical damage, making them ideal for use in harsh industrial environments.
Installation Scenarios
Both liquid tight and seal tight conduits can be used in a variety of installation scenarios. Liquid tight conduits are commonly used in outdoor applications, such as for wiring swimming pools, hot tubs, and outdoor lighting. They are also commonly used in areas where there is a lot of moisture, such as in bathrooms and kitchens.
Seal tight conduits, on the other hand, are commonly used in industrial settings, such as in manufacturing facilities and chemical plants. They are also commonly used in areas where there is a high risk of physical damage to the wiring, such as in areas with heavy machinery or in underground installations.
Compliance and Standards
Both liquid tight and seal tight conduits must comply with certain standards and regulations. Liquid tight conduits must comply with UL 360 and CSA C22.2 No. 56, while seal tight conduits must comply with UL 360 and CSA C22.2 No. 56. Both types of conduits must also comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local building codes.
Cost Considerations
When it comes to cost considerations, liquid tight conduits are generally less expensive than seal tight conduits. This is because the PVC material used in liquid tight conduits is less expensive than the metallic material used in seal tight conduits. However, the cost difference may be negligible depending on the specific installation scenario and the amount of conduit required.