Definition
A solid-walled metal tube used to enclose and protect electrical wiring in an aircraft, particularly in areas where the wiring is exposed to mechanical damage, heat, or other hazards. Unlike flexible conduit, rigid conduit holds its shape and must be bent or formed before installation.
Plain English
A stiff metal pipe that wires run through to keep them safe from being crushed, cut, or damaged.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft electrical system installation and inspection, especially where wiring passes through structure or areas where it needs extra protection.
Derivation
From Latin 'conducere' meaning 'to lead together' -- a conduit literally leads or channels something from one place to another. 'Rigid' simply means stiff or unbending, distinguishing it from flexible conduit.
Why Pilots Care
Damaged wiring can cause electrical failures, smoke, or fire. Knowing whether a wire run is protected by rigid conduit helps technicians inspect for chafing, corrosion, and proper support during maintenance.
Intuition Check
Rigid does not mean the conduit is impossible to damage or bend. Here it means the conduit is a fixed, stiff protective tube, not a flexible sleeve used where movement is needed.
Example Sentence 1
The wiring bundle running across the firewall is enclosed in rigid conduit to protect it from engine heat and vibration.
Example Sentence 2
During inspection, a crack was found in the rigid conduit near the fuselage access panel.