Rigid conduit is a heavy-duty conduit made from galvanized steel with a smooth interior. It offers the highest level of protection and is ideal for hazardous locations and demanding applications. IMC, or Intermediate Metal Conduit, is a lighter-weight option with a thinner wall thickness compared to rigid conduit. It provides good protection and is commonly used in commercial and industrial settings.

There is a wide range of fittings available for metallic conduit, including elbows, couplings, reducing couplings, and T-bodies. Elbows are used to change the direction of the conduit run, while couplings connect two pieces of conduit together. Reducing couplings are employed when transitioning between different conduit sizes, and T-bodies are utilized to branch out from the main conduit run.

The recommended spacing for supports on metallic conduit varies depending on the size of the conduit and the application. Generally, for horizontal runs, supports should be spaced 5-6 feet apart, while for vertical runs, the spacing should be reduced to 3-4 feet. Additional supports may be required for longer runs or areas where the conduit is subject to heavy loads.

Metallic conduit should be terminated using the appropriate fittings and techniques. For rigid conduit, a locknut and bushing are typically used to secure the conduit to a box or enclosure. IMC conduit can be terminated using either a set-screw type fitting or a compression-type fitting. It's important to follow proper grounding practices and ensure that the connection is secure and meets all applicable codes and standards.