Product Overview

The SOOW & SJOOW Portable Cord family comprises two grades of flexible rubber‑insulated portable cords, designed and manufactured in compliance with UL 62 and CSA C22.2 No. 49 standards. The letters in the type designation have specific meanings:

• SOOW is the heavy‑duty grade, rated 600V, designed for high‑power industrial equipment.

• SJOOW is the medium‑duty grade, rated 300V, lighter and more flexible for tools and appliances.

Both share the same rugged construction, oil resistance, weatherproofing, and high‑temperature performance, but differ in voltage rating, conductor size range, and physical weight.

Construction

Technical Specifications (Comparative Table)

Key Features (Common to Both)

1. Dual Oil Resistance (OO) – Both insulation and jacket resist mineral oils, making them ideal for workshops, factories, and oily environments.

2. Weather‑ & Water‑Resistant (W) – Suitable for outdoor use, rain, moisture, and UV exposure.

3. High‑Temperature Rating – Rated for continuous operation at 90°C in dry conditions.

4. Excellent Flexibility – Stranded conductors and soft rubber compounds allow easy handling and repeated flexing.

5. Abrasion & Tear Resistant – Tough neoprene jacket withstands rough handling and dragging.

6. Flame Retardant – Passes VW‑1 vertical flame test for safety.

7. UL & CSA Certified – Meets strict North American safety standards.

Differentiating Features

Typical Applications

SOOW (600V) – Heavy‑Duty:

• Industrial machinery (welding machines, compressors, motors)

• Construction sites (temporary power, lighting, heavy tools)

• Ports and shipyards (cranes, hoists, mobile equipment)

• Mining and aggregate (mobile crushers, conveyors)

• Large generators and switchgear

SJOOW (300V) – Medium‑Duty:

• Portable power tools (drills, grinders, saws)

• Household appliances (washing machines, refrigerators, air conditioners)

• Extension cords for generators and temporary power

• Commercial kitchen equipment, display cases

• Medical devices and portable instrumentation

• Stage lighting and sound equipment

Approvals & Standards

• UL 62 (Flexible Cords and Cables)

• CSA C22.2 No. 49 (Flexible Cords and Cables)

• RoHS compliant

• REACH compliant

• Flame Test: VW‑1 (UL) / FT1 (CSA)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does “OO” stand for?

A: “OO” means that both the insulation and the jacket are oil‑resistant. This double protection ensures reliable performance in oily environments.

Q2: What is the main difference between SOOW and SJOOW?

A: The primary difference is the rated voltage – SOOW is 600V (heavy‑duty) while SJOOW is 300V (medium‑duty). Consequently, SOOW uses larger conductors and is physically heavier, while SJOOW is lighter and more flexible.

Q3: Can both cables be used outdoors?

A: Yes. The “W” designation indicates weather‑ and water‑resistance, making both suitable for outdoor wet or damp locations.

Q4: What is the temperature rating for these cables?

A: Both are rated 90°C in dry conditions and 60°C in wet conditions.

Q5: What conductor sizes are available?

A: SOOW ranges from 18 AWG to 2 AWG; SJOOW ranges from 18 AWG to 10 AWG. Custom sizes may be available on request.

Q6: Which one should I choose for my application?

A: Choose SOOW if your equipment requires 600V and/or larger conductor sizes (e.g., heavy machinery, long cable runs). Choose SJOOW for 300V tools, appliances, and portable devices where lighter weight and lower cost are preferred.

Q7: Are these cables UL and CSA certified?

A: Yes, both meet UL 62 and CSA C22.2 No. 49 standards and bear the respective marks.

Q8: Can the number of cores and length be customised?

A: Absolutely. We offer 2‑, 3‑, 4‑core (and more) configurations, and custom lengths to suit your project requirements.