Buzz
PVC conduit is typically used for running wiring above and below the ground. Image credit: Carbonero Stock / Getty Images.PVC (polyvinyl chloride) conduit is similar to PVC pipe, but it is gray and primarily used for running wiring rather than plumbing. It is considered an ideal conduit because it resists electrochemical, chemical, and biological corrosion. Additionally, it is lighter than steel or aluminum tubing, and it's relatively simple to cut and connect.
For bending PVC conduit around corners or curves, the best approach is to purchase a pre-bent connector piece, as right angles and other shapes are typically easy to find. However, if the right elbow piece is unavailable, you’ll need to bend the PVC yourself, which requires heating it beforehand. A heat gun is an effective tool for this task. Before bending the PVC conduit you plan to use, it's a good idea to practice on some scrap pieces.
The first step is to plan the desired shape for your PVC conduit. A simple method is to use electrical metal tubing as a template, since it is easy to bend. Mark the areas on the PVC where you want the bends to occur. Keep your heat gun several inches away from the PVC while applying heat. Rotate the conduit to ensure that all sides are heated evenly. Once the PVC softens, wear thick leather gloves or heavy-duty wet gloves and carefully bend the conduit into shape. After achieving the desired bend, cool the area by spraying it with cold water or applying wet rags to prevent having to hold it as it stiffens.
