In industrial and outdoor power applications, moisture exposure is often unavoidable. From temporary outdoor power distribution to equipment operating in damp factory environments, engineers and buyers frequently ask the same question before selecting a cable: Is SOOW cable waterproof?
The answer is not as simple as "yes" or "no." Misunderstanding the true capabilities of SOOW cable can lead to premature cable failure, safety risks, or costly non-compliance issues. In this article, we break down the facts based on recognized standards, material science, and real-world applications-so you can make informed, confident purchasing decisions.
What Is SOOW Cable?
SOOW cable is a type of portable service cord widely used in industrial, commercial, and temporary power applications. Its designation is defined by UL and NEC standards:
- S – Service cord, suitable for heavy-duty use
- OO – Oil-resistant insulation and oil-resistant outer jacket
- W – Weather-resistant, approved for outdoor use
Typically rated for 600V and a wide temperature range, SOOW cable is designed for flexibility, mechanical durability, and resistance to oil, abrasion, and environmental stress. It is commonly used in industrial machinery, power tools, generators, portable equipment, and temporary power systems.
Is SOOW Cable Waterproof?
The short answer: SOOW cable is not classified as fully waterproof, but it is suitable for wet and outdoor environments under defined conditions.
From a standards perspective:
- The "W" (Weather-resistant) rating means the cable can be used outdoors and withstand exposure to moisture, rain, and varying weather conditions.
- According to UL and NEC definitions, SOOW cable is approved for wet locations, but it is not designed for continuous submersion or underwater use.
It is important to distinguish between:
- Waterproof: Designed for permanent immersion or water pressure
- Moisture-resistant: Resists water ingress under normal exposure
- Weather-resistant: Suitable for outdoor and wet environments without continuous submersion
SOOW cable falls into the moisture- and weather-resistant category. Using it outside of these parameters can compromise safety and service life.
How Materials and Construction Affect Water Resistance
The performance of SOOW cable in wet conditions is largely determined by its materials and structure:
- Outer Jacket: Typically made from CPE or premium rubber compounds, offering strong resistance to water, oil, UV exposure, and abrasion
- Insulation Layer: Oil-resistant and moisture-resistant insulation reduces the risk of water penetration to conductors
- Flexible Stranding: Fine copper stranding improves flexibility while maintaining structural integrity in harsh environments
However, unlike true waterproof or submersible cables, SOOW cable does not include sealed or pressure-rated designs, which is why it should not be used for underwater or continuously submerged applications.
Real-World Application Scenarios: Can You Use SOOW Cable?
Suitable applications include:
- Outdoor temporary power distribution
- Industrial environments with moisture or occasional water exposure
- Portable generators and power tools
- Construction sites and factory floors
Not recommended for:
- Submersible pumps
- Underwater installations
- Environments with continuous immersion or high water pressure
A practical rule of thumb:
If the cable may get wet but can dry naturally and is not submerged, SOOW cable is typically an appropriate and compliant choice.
Selecting the Right Cable for Waterproof Requirements
Choosing the wrong cable can result in:
- Equipment downtime
- Safety hazards
- Regulatory non-compliance
- Increased replacement and maintenance costs
Before selecting SOOW cable, consider:
- Will the cable be continuously exposed to water or submerged?
- Is mechanical movement or dragging involved?
- Are there oil, chemicals, or temperature extremes present?
If true waterproof performance is required, alternative cable designs may be more suitable. A professional supplier can help evaluate these factors and recommend the most cost-effective and compliant solution.
Why Working with a Professional Supplier Matters
Cable performance depends not only on design, but also on manufacturing quality, material consistency, and certification authenticity.
At Dongguan Greater Wire & Cable Co., Ltd., we bring over 30 years of manufacturing experience in industrial and flexible cables, including a full range of SOOW cable solutions. Our advantages include:
- Full-series certifications: VDE / UL / CB and more
- Multiple specifications available in stock for fast delivery
- Support for small orders, bulk production, and custom projects
- Professional pre-sales and after-sales technical support teams
- Reliable quality control backed by decades of production expertise
Whether you are managing a large-scale industrial project or sourcing cables for urgent applications, our team focuses on providing safe, compliant, and practical cable solutions that reduce risk and improve efficiency.
Let's Talk About Your Application
If you are unsure whether SOOW cable is the right choice for your environment-or need help selecting a cable that meets specific waterproof or compliance requirements-our engineers are ready to assist.
Dongguan Greater Wire & Cable Co., Ltd.
📞 Tel / WhatsApp / WeChat: +86 135 1078 4550 | +86 136 6257 9592
📧 Email: manager01@greaterwire.com
Choosing the right cable is not just about specifications-it's about reliability, safety, and long-term value. We're here to help you get it right.