CABLES
METALLIC VS NON-METALLIC
FLEX
CORRECTLY SPECIFYING MATERIAL PROPERTIES
FOR FLEXIBLE CONDUIT APPLICATIONS
Most organisations depend on an
uninterrupted supply of power to ensure
operational efficiency and profitability.
The correct cable protection solution can
be instrumental in protecting uptime and
avoiding unnecessary cost. This is especially
the case when selecting between metallic,
non-metallic or composite flexible conduit
systems for cable protection, says Tim
Creedon, Sales and Marketing Director at
Flexicon.
Historically, conduits and conduit fittings
were only available in metal, but, over time,
the development of engineered plastics saw
more flexible, corrosion and water-resistant
sheathing solutions enter the market.
These solutions could withstand large
temperature ranges, offered oil and
improved fuel resistance, and enjoyed
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a high level of mechanical strength. As
the market acceptance for these systems
grew, so nylon (polyamide) became an
increasingly important material.
However, metallic and composite systems
remain in demand because of their excellent
mechanical strength and EMC screening
possibilities. As such, specifiers must make
an informed choice when selecting suitable
cable protection solutions, considering
material properties alongside cost concerns.
More informed specification
Flexible conduit systems are typically
exposed to multiple hazards, so specifying
based on one singular property alone can
be short-sighted.
Though many products look similar, they
are designed to fulfil specific criteria. As
such, specifiers should check whether their
solution meets the application’s demands.
Flexicon, for example, informs customer
choice by offering detailed comparative
data between the 60 different systems
available. The company also offers ‘Flexiapp,’
a specialist smartphone app and online
product selector to help contractors make
the right product selection based on
answers to simple questions.
This is crucial, as many purchasers select
products based on outdated requirements,
previous installation experience, or personal
preference. Selecting an unsuitable solution
can result in compromised cabling, or over-
specification where a lower-cost protective
system would have sufficed.