What characteristic makes metal conduit preferable in areas with high traffic?

The characteristic that makes metal conduit preferable in areas with high traffic is its resistance to physical damage. In environments where there is a lot of movement or where equipment and vehicles frequently pass, such as factories, commercial buildings, or even streets, the conduit is exposed to potential impacts and scratches. Metal conduits are designed to withstand such wear and tear effectively, maintaining the integrity of the electrical wiring within. This durability minimizes the risk of damage that could arise from accidents or regular activity, ensuring safer and more reliable protection for the electrical systems housed inside.

In contrast, lightweight designs may not provide the necessary protection against impacts, flexibility in installation while beneficial for certain applications does not address the concern for physical damage, and although cost-effectiveness is important in choosing materials, it does not directly relate to the inherent protective qualities needed in high-traffic areas. The main focus in such settings is ensuring that the conduit can endure the environmental stresses it faces, thereby safeguarding the electrical system.