How to Choose the Right Conduit
and cable protection
Conduit systems and cable protection products protect cables against mechanical stress, dust, moisture, and chemicals.**
In this guide, we explain the difference between plastic hose, metal hose and spiral hoses – and how to choose the right solution for your installation.
Explore the right conduit system and cable protection solution for your application.**
Plastic Conduit – Flexible and Easy to Install
Plastic conduit is a flexible and easy-to-install solution for cable protection in industrial installations and building automation. Its lightweight, cost-effective design makes it particularly suitable for indoor environments and standard installations.
For different applications, the conduit is available with a range of jacket materials that provide enhanced UV resistance and improved protection against chemicals and external influences.
- Area of use: panel builder seeking easy and inexpensive solution in enclosures
Stainless Steel Conduit – Robust and Durable
Spiral Wrap and Cable Sleeves
Spiral wraps and cable sleeves are flexible solutions for cable protection and bundling in tight or moving installations. They are easy to apply even on existing cables and are well-suited for service, retrofitting, and cable routing in confined spaces.
The series is also available as Expandable cable sleeves for flexible installation and adaptation to varying cable sizes.
- Area of use: robot applications where cables often need to be retrofitted or replaced.
Comparison
| Type | Standard | Advantages | Limitations | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic (Polyamide) | EN 61386 | Flexible, lightweight, and cost-effective | Limited strength and lower temperature resistance | Building automation, indoor installations |
| Stainless Steel | EN 61386 | Very robust, corrosion-resistant, and high-temperature resistant | Heavier and more expensive construction | Offshore, food industry, process industry |
| Spiral Wraps | EN 61386 | Flexible and easy to retrofit | Lower density (IP54) and limited mechanical protection | Robotics, service panels |
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.
