What is the primary concern when using ferrous metal raceways near corrosive conditions?

When using ferrous metal raceways in environments exposed to corrosive conditions, the primary concern is material integrity. Ferrous metals, such as steel, are prone to rust and corrosion when exposed to moisture, chemicals, or other corrosive agents. This degradation can lead to a variety of issues, including increased risk of failure in the raceways, which can result in compromised electrical systems.

Maintaining the structural soundness of these raceways is critical for ensuring that they can adequately protect the enclosed wiring and maintain electrical safety. If the material begins to corrode, it can lead to breaches that not only affect the functionality of the electrical system but could also pose safety hazards, such as electrical shorts or fires. Therefore, assessing and addressing material integrity is crucial when selecting raceways for environments that may expose them to corrosive elements.