What is Cabtire Cable and where did the name come from?


Cabtire Cables refer to rugged, flexible electrical cables with a durable outer sheath, commonly used in industrial and portable applications. Below is a detailed explanation of its origin and significance.

The Origin of the Name "Cabtire"

(1) The Common Misconception: 
Many believe "Cabtire" comes from using recycled car or taxi-cab tires to make cable jackets. However:

• Tires are made from vulcanized (thermoset) rubber, which cannot be melted or reprocessed for such applications.
• Recycled rubber can only be ground up for uses like playground mulch, not cable jacketing.

(2) The Real Story (1911): 
The St. Helens Cable and Rubber Company in Warrington, UK, developed a tough, flexible sheath for cables. The term "Cabtire" comes from:

• Their work making rubber "tyring" for horse-drawn Hansom cabs.
• The "cab" in Hansom cab inspired the term "Cabtyre," later simplified to "Cabtire."

Today, Cabtire Cables are made from high-quality, fresh materials, not recycled rubber.

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What Does SOOW and SJOOW Mean?

These terms describe types of portable cords widely known as "Cabtire Cables." Here's what they mean:

(1) SOOW Cable: 

• S: Service – General service use
• O: Oil-resistant outer jacket
• O: Oil-resistant inner conductor insulation
• W: Weather-resistant – Suitable for outdoor conditions

- Voltage Rating: 600 volts 
- Applications: Heavy-duty use, such as industrial environments and outdoor installations.

(2) SJOOW Cable: 

• S: Service – General service use
• J: Junior – Lower voltage rating of 300 volts
• O: Oil-resistant outer jacket
• O: Oil-resistant inner conductor insulation
• W: Weather-resistant – Suitable for outdoor conditions

- Voltage Rating: 300 volts 
- Applications: Lighter-duty use, such as portable tools and indoor environments.

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Key Differences Between SOOW and SJOOW Cables

(1) Voltage Rating:

• SOOW: 600 volts
• SJOOW: 300 volts

(2) Thickness and Durability:

• SOOW has thicker insulation for greater mechanical protection.
• SJOOW is lighter and more flexible due to thinner insulation.

(3) Applications:

• SOOW: Suitable for industrial, outdoor, and heavy-duty applications.
• SJOOW: Ideal for light-duty and indoor applications.