How can service conductors be protected from physical damage?

Service conductors are critical components of electrical systems, and protecting them from physical damage is essential to ensure safety and reliability. Installing service conductors in raceways or conduits provides robust protection against potential hazards such as impacts, abrasions, and environmental factors. Raceways and conduits are designed to shield conductors from physical damage while also offering support and organization for wiring.

Using raceways or conduits not only safeguards the conductors but also complies with the requirements outlined in the National Electrical Code (NEC). The NEC specifies that raceways and conduits must meet certain standards for protection, thus ensuring that service conductors are adequately shielded in both residential and commercial environments.

While burying conductors underground can offer a level of protection, it does not provide the same accessibility for maintenance and inspection as raceways do. Insulating conductors with rubber may protect against electrical faults but not necessarily physical impacts. Finally, relying solely on flexible metal tubing might not provide adequate protection for all installation scenarios, as its use is generally limited to specific applications and does not cover all potential damage risks.