Collection: Intermediate Metallic Conduit IMC

Intermediate Metallic Conduit (IMC) is a type of threaded steel tubing used in electrical systems to protect and route electrical wiring. It serves as a durable raceway, ensuring the safety and compliance of electrical installations.

Key Characteristics:

  • Material: Made from galvanized steel, providing robust protection against physical damage, moisture, and corrosion.

  • Rigid Nature: IMC is a rigid conduit, meaning it maintains its shape and provides a strong protective pathway for conductors. While more rigid than Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT), it offers slightly more flexibility than Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC).

  • Thinner Walls: Compared to RMC, IMC has thinner walls, which makes it lighter and more cost-effective, while still offering excellent protection.

  • Threaded Connections: IMC typically uses threaded connections with fittings like couplings, elbows, and connectors for secure and straightforward assembly.

  • Sizes: Commonly available in trade sizes from 1/2 inch to 4 inches, in standard 10-foot (3.05 meter) lengths.

  • Codes and Standards: Manufactured to standards like UL 1242 and ANSI C80.6, and recognized by the National Electrical Code (NEC) Article 342 as an equipment grounding conductor.

  • Corrosion Protection: Often features a hot-dip galvanized exterior and an organic or proprietary corrosion-resistant coating on the interior to facilitate wire pulling and enhance durability.

Common Applications:

IMC is a versatile choice for a wide range of electrical installations in both commercial and industrial settings, balancing robust protection with a more manageable weight and cost compared to RMC.

  • Commercial Buildings: Used for running branch circuit wiring, feeder wiring, and electrical distribution systems in offices, retail stores, and shopping centers.

  • Industrial Environments: Ideal for protecting electrical wiring in factories, manufacturing plants, and other industrial facilities where heavy machinery and equipment are present, offering resistance to physical impact.

  • Outdoor Installations: Suitable for outdoor applications where wiring needs protection from environmental factors, such as outdoor lighting, security systems, and signage, especially with rain-tight fittings.

  • Mechanical Rooms: Frequently used in building mechanical rooms to protect wiring connected to HVAC systems and other mechanical equipment.

  • Data Centers: Provides reliable power distribution and protection for critical electrical wiring in data centers and server rooms.

  • Concealed or Exposed: Can be installed either exposed or concealed within walls, ceilings, or floors.

  • Underground Applications: Can be buried underground for utilities or lighting, offering protection from the elements and physical damage.

Intermediate Metallic Conduit IMC