How to Choose the Right Conduit & Cable Protection
Conduits and cable protection safeguard cables against mechanical stress, dust, moisture, and chemicals. In this guide, we explain the difference between plastic conduit, metal conduit, and spiral wrap – and how to choose the right solution for your installation.
Comparison
| Type | Standard | Fördel | Limitations | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic (Polyamide) | EN 61386 | Flexible, lightweight, cost-effective | Limited strength, lower temperature | Building automation, indoor installations |
| Stainless steel | EN 61386 | Very robust, corrosion-resistant, high temp (-60 °C to +400 °C) | Heavier and more expensive | Offshore, food industry, process industry |
| Spiral Wrap | EN 61386 | Flexible, easy retrofitting, good for moving installations | Low sealing (IP54), limited mechanical protection | Robotics, service panels |
Industry Use Cases
- Plastic (Polyamide): : Panel builders looking for a lightweight and cost-effective solution inside boxes.
- Stainless steel conduit: Food industry where high-pressure cleaning requires corrosion protection and high IP ratings.
- Spiral wrap: Robotics applications where cables often need retrofitting or replacement.
Plastic Conduit – Flexible and Easy to Install
- Lightweight and cost-effective
- Suitable for indoor environments and standard installations
- Available with various jackets for UV resistance or chemical protection
Stainless Steel Conduit – Robust and Durable
- Made of stainless steel
- Provides very high mechanical protection and excellent temperature resistance
- Recommended for demanding industrial environments or outdoor use
Spiral Wrap and Cable Sleeves
- Flexible and easy to apply, even on existing cables
- Suitable for bundling and protection in tight spaces
- Available as expandable cable sleeves
When Is Extra EMC Protection Needed?
- EMC-protected conduits divert interference and are often combined with grounding.
- Commonly used in environments with frequency converters and sensitive electronics.
Summary
The choice of conduit depends on the environment, mechanical load, and any EMC requirements. At C-Profil, we offer a wide range of plastic, metal, and spiral conduits with accessories.
Common Questions About Choosing Conduits & Cable Protection
When is plastic conduit best?
For indoor installations with moderate mechanical load.
When should I choose metal conduit?
In outdoor or industrial environments where the cables are exposed to severe stress.
Are spiral wraps as protective as metal conduits?
No, they are primarily for flexibility and cable collection rather than heavy protection.
Are EMC-protected conduits available?
Yes, special metal or shielded hoses combine mechanical protection with shielding.
Do you need help choosing the right conduit & cable protection?
Our experts will guide you to the correct product and dimensioning for your application.
