Full definition
Polychloroprene (CR) compounds specifically formulated as the outer protective jacket for flexible electrical cables, providing a unique combination of flame retardancy (inherent from ~36% chlorine content — passes VW-1 and FT4 flame tests), oil resistance (for industrial environments with lubricant exposure), weather/ozone resistance (for outdoor cables without additional UV jacket), and outstanding flex fatigue life (essential for portable and trailing cables subjected to repeated bending). Per UL 62 (flexible cords and cables), IEC 60245 (rubber-insulated cables), and CSA C22.2. Neoprene jacketed cables are designated type SO, SOW, SOOW (oil-resistant, water-resistant, outdoor) in the NEC (National Electrical Code). Properties: tensile 10-18 MPa, elongation 200-400%, hardness 65-85 Shore A, temperature range -25 to +90°C. The jacket must withstand: repeated flexing, abrasion, impact, oil drips, sunlight, ozone, and incidental flame exposure. Mining cables (MSHA-approved) use FR neoprene jackets for underground safety. Alternative jacketing: CPE (cheaper but less oil-resistant), EPDM (better heat), and TPE (lower cost, limited performance). Neoprene remains the premium standard for portable industrial cable jacketing.