What Is the Difference Between a Galvanized Pipe & a Rigid Conduit?

There are several similarities and differences between pipe that has been galvanized and rigid conduit. Galvanized pipe and rigid metal conduit are both very versatile but designed for different applications. Both types of piping ends are easily machined to include such features as threads.

Applications

Galvanized pipe itself has limitless applications, from gas piping to piping for potable water. Rigid conduit lines are designed specifically for electrical applications. They offer excellent protection for the electrical wires that are run through them. Both types of piping are designed for indoor, outdoor and underground applications.

Design

Galvanized pipe can be manufactured to almost any diameter, while rigid metal conduit is available in diameters between 1/2 inch and 6 inches. Conduits are typically designed to 10-foot lengths. Galvanized piping can be machined to feature threads or couplings on the ends. Rigid metal conduit is designed with one coupling end and one threaded end. Rigid metal conduit threads are fitted with a color-coded threat protector component to keep the threading sharp and also indicate the size of the pipe.

Galvanizing

Galvanizing is a method of adding a corrosion-resistant layer to the outside of a material. There are several methods to galvanize piping, including hot-dip galvanizing. This method involves immersing a material in a zinc bath, effectively creating a corrosion-resistant surface on the material. Most of the rigid metal conduit on the market has been galvanized to increase corrosion resistance.