What is DLO Cable and How Does It Differ from Welding Cable?
At Nassau Electrical Supply, we are proud to supply you with a variety of wire and cable products. One such product is diesel locomotive (DLO) cable, which is a single conductor cable that is approved for a variety of industrial uses.
DLO cable is one of the toughest types of cable available, commonly used in industrial industries, including those who work with railroad cars, oil and gas drilling rigs, telecommunications equipment and mining tools.
Standard DLO cable is rated up to 2,000 volts and about 195 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s approved by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) for use in wet and dry environments because, in testing, the cable stood up particularly well to hazards like oil, water and even acids. You should always look for “MSHA” printed directly on the cable before using it, as this means that the DLO cable you’re looking at is indeed safe and tested in both wet and dry environments. If it does not have the stamp of approval, this may be a sign that you have a counterfeit or different type of cable, and you should not use it.
DLO cable is uniquely reliable and durable because the copper conducts in the interior of the cable are tin-coated. DLO cable is similar to welding cable but is distinct because of this tin coating. The tin coating is essential to DLO’s approval in harsher environments because it adds an extra layer of corrosion protection, making welding cable less appropriate for harsh or outdoor environments.
DLO cable is also distinct from welding cable because it is coated in a thicker insulation jacket, making it more resistant to heat and impact. For smaller jobs, welding cable may be used, but keep in mind that standard welding cable is only rated to 600 volts. For larger jobs, you will likely need DLO’s 2,000 volts for added protection.
No matter what type of cable your business needs, Nassau Electrical Supply has a wide selection to fit your every need. Check out what’s in stock today, and find the durable cables you need at stellar prices.