Which type of conduit has a greater wall thickness when comparing 1/2 IMC and 1/2 RMC?

The reason that 1/2 Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC) has a greater wall thickness compared to 1/2 Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC) is primarily due to the design and application standards for both types of conduit. RMC is specifically designed to provide a higher level of protection for electrical wiring, often used in outdoor installations or areas where physical damage is a concern.

RMC is thicker and heavier, manufactured from steel and often galvanized, which allows it to withstand greater mechanical stress. In contrast, IMC, while still robust, is intended for situations where a lighter weight conduit is adequate and offers some protection but doesn’t require the same wall thickness as RMC.

Understanding the differences in wall thickness is crucial for electrical installations, as the choice of conduit will affect durability, cost, and compliance with local code requirements.