Explaining What Makes SO Cord Different Compared To SOOW Cord
We have been at this for many years and seemingly on a daily basis we are asked what the difference is when comparing SO cable, SOW cable and SOOW cable. SO cable is the original form of this cable and for the most part was the original call out for what today is known as service cord. The S stands for service and the O stands for oil resistant Jacket. Over the years, as technology advanced the W was added to the original call out and that meant that the jacket was also now water resistant. The top voltage approval on any of the above call outs is 600 volts. If you have to have a higher voltage rating you would have to look at a Type W or possibly even a Type G cable. Both of these would be rated up to 2000 volts.
The modern day cable is now commonly known as SOOW cable. The newer type now sports both an oil resistant jacket in addition to oil resistant internal conductors. The W still represents a water resistant jacket. It is important to understand water and oil resistant and not water and oil proof. Many people inquire if this cable can be used in situations where the cable will be under water all the time. It is not advisable to utilize the SOOW cable for this environment as that is not what it is designed for. Think transitory power situations like stage lighting or temporary generator usage etc. If the jacket gets wet every now and then is not nearly as bad as keeping it under water. The same thing applies to the oil resistant quality of the cable. It is not recommended to keep this cable covered in oil or any acidic material for that matter.
SOOW cable is available in sizes ranging from 18 gauge at the small end up to 2 gauge at the bigger end. Number of conductors may be anywhere from 2 conductors up to 60 conductors depending on the size of the cable in question.
Speak with an SO Cable Professional at Delco Wire: 1-800-714-WIRE (9473).
