What Is SOOW Cable Used For? A Complete Guide

What Is SOOW Cable?

SOOW cable is a flexible, heavy-duty power cord designed for portable equipment, tools, and industrial machinery. The name SOOW stands for:

S – Service (600 volts)
OO – Oil-resistant insulation and jacket
W – Weather- and water-resistant

what is soow cable used for

✅ Common Uses of SOOW Cable

Portable Power Tools
SOOW cables are widely used with portable drills, saws, welders, and compressors in industrial and construction environments.
Heavy-Duty Extension Cords
Ideal for temporary power connections on job sites, especially where resistance to oil, water, and abrasion is required.
Industrial Machinery Wiring
Used to connect motors, conveyor systems, and other movable equipment in factories or warehouses.
Generators & Temporary Power Distribution
Often seen on movie sets, events, and construction sites to safely distribute power outdoors or in harsh conditions.
Stage and Entertainment Applications
SOOW cable is a go-to option in sound, lighting, and entertainment industries due to its flexibility and ruggedness.
Marine and Dockside Equipment
Its water-resistant and oil-resistant properties make it suitable for harsh marine environments.

🧰 Key Features of SOOW Cable

Feature	Description
Voltage Rating	600 Volts
Temperature Range	-40°C to 90°C (wet or dry locations)
Jacket Material	Flexible CPE (Chlorinated Polyethylene)
Conductors	Stranded bare copper (typically 2 to 5+)
Resistance	Oil, water, sunlight, and abrasion

⚠️ Where NOT to Use SOOW Cable

Not rated for in-wall permanent wiring
Not suitable for direct burial (unless dual-rated)
Not intended for high-flex robotics (where ultra-flex cables are needed)

Why Choose SOOW Cable?

If you need a tough, flexible cable that can stand up to abrasion, oil, moisture, and temperature extremes, SOOW is one of the best choices on the market.