The Uses of SOOW Cable - A Complete Guide

A lot goes into choosing the best extension cord. Common considerations include cable length, diameter, and safety features to protect against surges in electrical currents.

Extension cables also come in different sizes and designs, depending on the types of electrical appliances you intend to use them with. One of the most popular extension cords is known as SOOW Cord.

If you frequently use heavy-duty electrical equipment like air compressors, there are high chances you've already interacted with SOOW cords. But what's the purpose of these cords, and why should you consider them over regular extension cables? Those questions shall form the basis of this post.

Read on for a definitive guide into SOOW cords. The post shall discuss the role of SOOW cords, the benefits of these extension cables, and how the cords stack up against other standard extension cables.

What Is SOOW Cord?

SOOW cord, also known as SOOW cable, refers to a portable control cord that features high-end protection against the elements, designed for heavy-duty industrial use.

But to fully understand what SOOW cables are, it's best to break down the word into its constituent forms.

SOOW is an acronym for;

• Service cord
• Oil-resistant jacket
• Oil-resistant insulation
• Weather- and water-resistant

By breaking down the meaning of the individual letters in the word "SOOW," you can already get a picture of what SOOW cords are and what their primary utility is. SOOW cords are service cords engineered to be oil- and weather- cum water-resistant.

As an anti-oil protection cord, SOOW cables are designed using an oil-resistant black thermostat chlorinated polyethylene (CPE) jacket. The jacket includes color-coded synthetic oil and ozone- and water-resistant rubber (EPDM) insulation.

Benefits of SOOW Cables

Versatility

Versatility is unarguably the most significant advantage of SOOW cords over regular extension cables.

As we've already pointed out, SOOW cords are designed to offer incredible protection against oil. These cables are built with oil-resistant insulation and jacket that makes them excellent for use in oily conditions. Examples of such environments include petroleum manufacturing plants and mechanic workshops.

SOOW cables also offer exceptional protection against water and other weather elements, such as humidity and temperature. The thought of having your electrical extensions accidentally fall into a pool of water is simply unfathomable for most people. That's because water is a superconductor of electricity.

A fraction of a second is sometimes all it takes for a non-insulated wire to inflict severe damage on nearby people or objects. The electrical appliances on which the cable is attached could blow up. Worse yet, you could be looking at uncontrollable electrical infernos or electrocution.

Thankfully, SOOW cords offer maximum insulation against water, making them safer for use in reasonably wet or humid conditions.

Durability

Durability is another vital factor to consider while shopping for electrical cables. And it's reassuring to note that SOOW cords offer maximum durability.

The durability of SOOW cords is determined primarily by the components used for the jacket and insulation. Remember that these cables include oil- and weather-resistant material. Higher resistance to various environmental aspects translates to better longevity.

Besides, SOOW extension cords are designed with anti-abrasion materials. These cables can stand up to aging resulting from normal wear and tear.

Another exciting thing about SOOW cables about durability is that these wires respond better to temperature changes. The cord components are so engineered that they harden under direct heat. That means SOOW cables can withstand extended exposure to sunlight and ozone abuse. These cords can be safe for use in temperature conditions up to 221 degrees Fahrenheit. For comparison's sake, standard extension cables would melt if subjected to the same temperature, leading to accidental blowups and other electrical malfunctions. But that's not all. SOOW cords are also safe in sub-zero temperatures down to negative 40 degrees.

Note that dollar for dollar, SOOW extension cables may be costlier than regular cords. But the fact that these cables are highly durable makes them more affordable in the long run.

All you need to do is adopt a robust care and maintenance plan for your SOOW cords. That includes engaging the services of a licensed electrician to undertake routine checks. These checks will reveal potential issues with your SOOW cables and help you arrest the situation before it escalates into an electrical disaster.

The routine checks will also help you determine the standard frequency to repair or replace your cables. As you shall find, that depends mainly on the specific equipment and machinery you're using your SOOW cords for.

Flexibility

SOOW cords are also exceptionally flexible. Flexibility, in this respect, is both physical and functional.

Most regular extension cords have one solid piece of copper, which usually has little flexibility. However, SOOW cords include a strand of smaller copper wires. When copper wires are arranged this way, the material retains its flexibility. Some SOOW cables can have up to 15 copper wires stranded together, giving the cord maximum strength and flexibility.

The flexibility of SOOW cables is also determined by the types of environments where these cables can be safely used. As we've already mentioned, these cords can be used in oily, humid, and even high-temperature settings.

Application of SOOW Cables

SOOW extension cords are used for a wide range of applications.

One of the most noticeable features of SOOW cables is their oil and water resistance nature. These two attributes make the cables suitable for use in equipment exposed to water, oils, and other chemicals.

The following are some areas where SOOW extension cables would be applicable;

• Garage areas and mechanic workshops
• Wiring remote control circuits used in push-button stations
• Severe flexing applications

• Temperature control systems
• Fire alarm control systems
• Motor leads
• Portable lights, such as portable stage lights
• Battery chargers
• Production lines and processing plants
• Manufacturing facilities
• Mining sites
• Petroleum processing facilities
• Harsh environmental conditions
• Marine dockside power
• All manner of heavy-duty industrial equipment

How to Choose the Best SOOW Cables

Having reviewed some of the features and benefits of SOOW cables, your next concern is probably how to shop for these products. As with any electrical cord, there are numerous factors to bear in mind while choosing SOOW cables for your electrical appliances.

You'd want to begin by establishing that the cable contains all the requirements that satisfy it as a genuine SOOW cord. That includes an oil-resistant jacket, oil-resistant insulation, and weather- and water-resistant feature.

Generally, any SOOW cable duly approved by quality control regulators like The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) will readily contain the above features. However, it's still important to verify for your peace of mind.

The following are other considerations while choosing SOOW cables;

Flexibility

The physical flexibility of SOOW cables depends on the number of copper wires in the cord. The higher the number of copper wires, the more flexible the cord.

However, note that while more strands in SOOW cable translates to better flexibility, the same can adversely affect the product's overall price.

But the number of strands isn't enough. It's also best to check the strand size.

The size of electrical strands is measured in a millimeter gauge. And the higher the gauge, the more reliable the strand. That's particularly true for SOOW cables designed for use on heavy-duty equipment.

Shielding

A shield refers to the material surrounding an electrical cable's inner components, particularly those that carry signal or power conductors. Shielding materials are generally incorporated into electrical cords to combat electromagnetic interference (EMI) or radio-frequency interference (RFI).

The shield exerts its influence on radio-frequency interference in two ways. First, the material can reflect the energy. Secondly, it can absorb the noise and neutralize its effects by transmitting it to the ground.

There are two important aspects to consider when determining the correct shield for your SOOW cords. They include shield material and shield coverage.

Most experts recommend a braided shield for its strength, durability, and flexibility. Braided shields offer extended flex life and better mechanical protection. SOOW cables with aluminum foil shielding also work great.

In terms of shield coverage, the higher the percentage, the better the cable quality.

Supported Temperature Range

We already mentioned that standard SOOW extension cords could work safely within temperature ranges of 221 and negative 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The higher the range, the better the cable.

It's also important to factor in the general temperature conditions you'll use the SOOW cable while determining its ideal temperature ranges.

For instance, if the cable will primarily be used on coal manufacturing plants where temperatures can get excruciatingly hot, it would be best to focus on the above-zero temperature limits. The converse is true for cords used on refrigeration plants where temperatures can plummet to sub-zero degrees.

Voltage

SOOW extension power cables come with a voltage rating of 600 volts. Voltage is the one feature that distinguishes these cables from their closest relatives, such as Type W cables.

The best part about high-voltage cables is that they also support low-voltage usage.

However, note that voltage has a strong bearing on the insulation material used. Higher-voltage wires like SOOW cables would require equally powerful insulation.

Fortunately, this is one of the most vital points of SOOW cables. So, you'll never worry about your cord's voltage handling capabilities despite the machines you use it with.

Brand

Numerous brands are offering SOOW cords. Sadly, not all traders are as trustworthy as they paint themselves to be. Therefore, it's crucial to establish a supplier's reputation before ordering their products.

Reputable SOOW cable suppliers tend to have a fairly long industry presence. Although not always the case, traders who've been in the industry for at least five years are likely to deal in reliable cables.

A mark of standardization is another best practice when determining the reputation of SOOW cable suppliers. The trader should deal in products standardized by NEMA and other electrical regulators like the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

Pricing

SOOW cables cost an average of $0.25/ft. But as you might have guessed, the actual cost of these products will depend on various factors. Examples include the retailer and location where you buy the cable from.

Perhaps the most invaluable piece of advice here is to beware of unscrupulous dealers who price their SOOW cables way below the industry rates.

It's okay to want the most durable cable at fairly affordable prices. But it's unrealistic to go looking for the bargain of the century. Note that when it comes to SOOW cables, the price is always reflective of the quality.

Differences Between SOOW and SJOOW Cables

SOOW cables aren't the only utility electrical cords out there. You'll also stumble upon cables marked SJOOW.

But what's the difference between SOOW and SJOOW cables?

We've already explained the meaning of SOOW cables based on the individual symbolism of the letters in the acronym. The implications of those letters remain the same for SJOOW cables. However, the word SJOOW features an additional letter – J.

The letter J in SJOOW means junior service. The term is often used regarding the voltage these cables can handle.

SJOOW cables have a voltage capacity of 300 volts. These cables are safe for use within temperature ranges between 194 and negative 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Most of them include 2 – 4 conductors.

Difference Between SOOW and Type W Cables

Type W cables are durable portable cords designed to supply power in temporary or permanent wiring applications. These cables share several similarities with SOOW cords.

For instance, both cables offer oil and sunlight resistance. They can also contain a different number of conductors.

The main difference between Type W and SOOW cables lies in their voltage capacities. SOOW cables can support 600 volts, whereas type W cables have an incredible voltage capacity of 2000.

Another noticeable difference between type W and SOOW cables is that SOOW cables typically include multiple conductors, whereas type W can also come in single conductors. Single conductor type W cords are commonly used for power systems and other applications that require temporary or permanent power. On the other hand, multi-conductor type W cables are ideal for industrial light-to-heavy duty applications, such as mining sites and motor battery lead applications.

Final Word

There goes our definitive guide into SOOW cables.

As a parting shot, remember to conduct your due diligence before selecting the best SOOW extension cord for you. That includes determining whether your electrical appliances require these cords in the first place.

Remember that these cables are particularly recommended for heavy-duty and not regular consumer appliances.