09 May UPVC Conduits: A Popular Choice for Electrical Installations
When it comes to projects involving outdoor electrical systems, uPVC conduits have emerged as the go-to option for protecting wiring and cables. While pre-galvanised steel is unsuitable for outdoor use, as per A653/A65306a, BS EN 10142 & BS EN 10143 recommend it only for indoor commercial applications and not industrial or outdoor environments. As such, it is better to opt for uPVC conduits instead, and below are the advantages that make them the better choice.
An Overview of uPVC
Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is the most widely produced synthetic polymer. Plasticisers are added in the manufacturing of PVC to increase its flexibility, making it easy to bend, which is vital for certain applications. However, PVC can also be made without these plasticisers, creating a harder material with a more rigid consistency called uPVC, with the “u” meaning unplasticized.
uPVC pipes are now widely used in various electrical projects, outdoor or otherwise, due to the many benefits they offer, including:
1. Non-toxic and chemical-free
UPVC pipes are manufactured using environmentally friendly and virgin unplasticized polyvinyl compounds free of chemicals, making them ideal for sustainable buildings and other such projects. This inherent non-toxic quality makes uPVC pipes safe for use in rooftop and outdoor applications where despite getting soaked or immersed in rainwater, there is no risk of leaching chemicals.
2. Cost-efficient
UPVC cable pipes, fittings, and accessories are a popular choice because they are cost-efficient (which is always a positive for lower operational costs) and easy to install.
3. High rigidity
The lack of additional plasticisers makes uPVC conduits harder and have higher rigidity than regular PVC pipes, making them on par with pre-GI steel for outdoor electrical housing applications.
4. Excellent durability and corrosion-free
Apart from their superior strength and increased UV resistance compared to their uPVC plumbing counterparts, uPVC conduits are also corrosion-proof and have mineral-resistant properties that make them long-lasting and durable materials suitable for outdoor electrical installations. In addition, since uPVC does not react to the elements, it works great at preventing the ingress of pests and moisture that could compromise the cables within.
5. Hassle-free usage
Because uPVC conduits are more lightweight than steel trays, they are easier to carry and involve significantly lower transportation costs.
6. Fire-retardant
DC cables resting on pre-GI metal cable trays experience more heat, given that metal conducts heat better than UPVC, which may negatively affect their current carrying capacity or cause a drop in ampacity. UPVC electrical conduits in Singapore come with fire resistance properties, generally rated as Low Halogen – Smoke Suppressing – Fire Retardant – Temperature Stable Lead-Free (LHSFT) or Fire Retardant – Low Smoke, so in case of fire, there is minimal risk of the flames propagating.
Conclusion
Given the importance of having power in any building structure today, the electrical installations that route electricity in the premises must remain intact in the long term. UPVC provides the many advantages above and boasts a lengthy service that can reach up to 50 years and more.
Whether your project requires uPVC electrical conduits or plumbing pipes, Vicplas can meet all your piping needs. We offer a wide range of BCA SGBC Green Mark Certified, lead-free, and high-performance pipes fit for all kinds of applications, including underground drainage, soil, waste, and vent discharge, and hydroponic systems in Singapore.
To learn more about our plumbing solutions and components for hydroponic systems, contact us today for additional details.