Comparing Cables to Cables: SOOW VS SJOOW

by | Dec 2, 2021

Comparing Cables to Cables

SOOW Cord VS SJOOW Cord

In today’s match off, we have decided to line up two bulk service cords (SOOW and SJOOW) that are similar but have differences that can help each other thrive in specific situations such as commercial, industrial, indoor, outdoor and residential settings. Although both bulk service cables can be used in the same general settings, they differ as for what type of use in those settings. But while temp rating, as well as, insulation type (thermoset rubber, EPDM insulation) is the same for both cords, there are important differences we should note.

SOOW, what is it?

SOOW is a multi-conductor portable service cord/cable generally used in applications of hard usage such as industrial equipment, heavy tools, battery chargers, portable lights, welding leads, marine dockside power, power extensions and mining applications. Upon selection process you might want to take into consideration SOOW’s availability in two types of conductors, bare and tinned. 

S: Service Cord  

OO: Oil-Resistant Insulation and Outer Jacket  

W: Weather Resistant  

SJOOW, what is it?

While SOOW is generally used in hard usage settings, SJOOW is a multi-conductor portable service cord/cable used in extra hard usage settings where industrial equipment, heavy tools, battery chargers, portable lights, welding leads, marine dockside power, power extensions and mining applications are present.

S: Service Cord  

J: Junior Service  

OO: Oil-Resistant Insulation and Outer Jacket  

W: Weather Resistant  

Comparing SOOW and SJOOW

The number of commonalities between these wires are numerous. One, they’re insulated with EPDM, meaning it is tolerant to not only elevated heat, fire, and radiation but also to acidic and oily substances. Second, despite the fact that their jackets are made of distinct components, SOOW and SJOOW commonly feature oil-tolerant jackets, coats and insulations. Third, both are certified by boards such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and Canada Standards Associations (CSA) meaning they are safe for use and have passed all rigorous inspection of these boards for use in the United States of America, Canada and internationally.

The power rating are key distinctions among both service cords. SJOOW a ‘J’ cable has 300 volts while SOOW Cords, not a ‘J’ cord has 600 volts. Due to SJOOW being a junior ‘J’ cord, jackets options are much more flexible and easier to work with in every sense of the word. With the same idea, as SOOW is not a Junior cord and it handles greater voltages, it is a bit more stiff and harder to control but much more reliable and tolerant to setting where heavy contact as well as abrasive neighboring components are present. Because of these and many other beneficial factors SOOW cables offer, the price is higher which is why we recommend and ‘J’ service cables if any given application will not require more than 300 volts.

Z-Tronix SJOOW & SOOWlutions

Do you have a question this blog did not answer? Do not worry! Our Z-Tronix electromechanical solution experts are eagerly waiting to answer all questions you may have about anything wire and cable! Call 562-808-0800, shoot us an email at info@z-tronix.com, visit our catalog by clicking the button below or fill up the RFQ form at the bottom of this page to get in contact with us today!