When selecting an industrial power cable, one seemingly simple question often leads to confusion: Does SO cord come with shielding? For engineers, procurement managers, and OEM manufacturers, the answer can directly impact equipment performance, safety, and long-term reliability. Choosing the wrong cable may result in electromagnetic interference, downtime, or unnecessary costs. In this article, we will clearly explain what SO cord is, whether it includes shielding, when shielding is truly required, and how to choose the right solution for your application-helping you make a confident, informed decision.
What Is SO Cord?
SO cord is a type of portable power cable widely used in industrial and commercial environments. The designation "SO" refers to its key characteristics:
- S (Service): Rated for heavy-duty service
- O (Oil-resistant jacket): Resistant to oils, chemicals, and industrial fluids
A typical SO cord consists of:
- Stranded copper conductors
- Thermoset rubber insulation
- A durable oil- and abrasion-resistant outer jacket
Thanks to its flexibility, mechanical strength, and resistance to harsh conditions, SO cord is commonly used in:
- Industrial machinery
- Manufacturing equipment
- Construction sites
- Temporary power connections
SO cord is primarily designed for power transmission, not signal integrity.
Does SO Cord Come with Shielding?
In most standard configurations, SO cord does not come with shielding.
This is an important point to understand. Traditional SO cord is engineered to deliver electrical power reliably while withstanding mechanical stress, oil exposure, and movement. Because it is mainly used for power applications rather than data or signal transmission, electromagnetic shielding is not part of the standard design.
However, in certain applications:
- Shielded SO cord can be manufactured upon request
- Shielding may include braided copper or foil layers
- Custom designs depend on technical requirements and compliance standards
In short:
- Standard SO cord: No shielding
- Custom shielded SO cord: Available when required
Understanding this distinction helps avoid over-specifying-or under-protecting-your cable system.
When Do You Need Shielded SO Cord?
Not every application requires shielding, but in some environments, it becomes critical. You may need a shielded SO cord if your equipment operates in:
- High electromagnetic interference (EMI) environments
- Facilities with variable frequency drives (VFDs)
- Automated production lines with sensitive electronics
- Installations where power and signal cables run in close proximity
Without shielding, EMI can cause:
- Signal distortion
- Equipment malfunction
- Unexpected shutdowns
- Reduced system reliability
If your application values signal stability, precision control, or system safety, shielding can make a significant difference.
SO Cord vs. Shielded Cable: Key Differences
| Feature | Standard SO Cord | Shielded SO Cord |
|---|---|---|
| Shielding Layer | No | Yes (braid or foil) |
| EMI Protection | Limited | High |
| Primary Use | Power transmission | Power + EMI control |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Flexibility | High | Slightly reduced |
| Typical Applications | Industrial tools, machinery | Automation, sensitive equipment |
Selection tip:
If EMI is not a concern, standard SO cord is cost-effective and reliable. If electrical noise could affect performance, shielded solutions are a smart investment.
Our SO Cord Solutions: Reliable, Certified, and Ready to Deliver
At Dongguan Greater Wire & Cable Co., Ltd., we specialize in high-quality SO cord solutions designed to meet global industrial demands.
Why Choose Us?
- 30 years of manufacturing experience
- Full series of VDE / UL / CB certifications
- Multiple specifications available in stock for fast delivery
- Support for OEM & ODM customization, including shielded designs
- Capable of small orders and large-scale production
- Professional pre-sales and after-sales technical support
Our SO cord products help customers:
- Reduce downtime
- Simplify procurement
- Ensure compliance with international standards
- Achieve faster project timelines
Contact Us
Dongguan Greater Wire & Cable Co., Ltd.
📞 Tel / WhatsApp / WeChat:
+86 135 1078 4550
+86 136 6257 9592
📧 Email: manager01@greaterwire.com
Whether you need standard SO cord, shielded solutions, or technical guidance, our team is ready to support your project-from consultation to delivery.