DIESEL LOCOMOTIVE CABLE

Diesel Locomotive (DLO) Cable is a highly flexible and durable electrical power cable, originally designed for use in diesel-electric trains. Known for its robust construction, including finely stranded copper and tough insulation, DLO cable is rated for high voltages (typically 2kV) and excels in demanding conditions. Beyond locomotives, its resistance to heat, abrasion, oil, and moisture makes it a popular choice for various heavy-duty industrial applications like drilling rigs, mining equipment, and backup power systems.

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2000V DIESEL LOCOMOTIVE (DLO) CABLE

DLO (Diesel Locomotive) Cable is a rugged, 2000V-rated portable power cable designed for the most demanding industrial and transit applications. Originally engineered for the wiring of diesel-electric locomotives, its use has expanded into any environment requiring maximum flexibility and durability. DLO features high-strand-count tinned copper conductors—which provide superior corrosion resistance and ease of soldering—encased in a premium Ethylene Propylene Rubber (EPR) insulation and a reinforced Chlorinated Polyethylene (CPE) outer jacket. This construction makes DLO resistant to oils, acids, alkalies, heat, and flame. Dual-rated as RHH/RHW-2, it is also suitable for use in cable trays and permanent wiring in both wet and dry locations.

Installation Note: DLO cable is significantly more flexible than standard Class B building wire, but because of its high strand count, it requires specialized lugs and connectors. Standard mechanical lugs may not properly grip the fine strands, potentially leading to overheating. Always use "Long Barrel" compression lugs or mechanical lugs specifically rated for "Fine Strand" or "Flexible" cable. Additionally, when using DLO in a cable tray (TC-ER), ensure it is properly supported according to NEC Article 392 to prevent mechanical stress on the terminals.

Key Features
  • 2000V Heavy-Duty Rating: Built to handle higher voltage loads than standard 600V portable cords, making it ideal for industrial power feeds
  • Tinned Copper Conductors: Features flexible, fine-stranded tinned copper that prevents oxidation and ensures a long-lasting electrical connection in moist or salty environments.
  • Dual-Rated RHH/RHW-2: Listed for use in permanent conduit and cable tray installations, offering more versatility than standard welding cable.
  • Extreme Flexibility: The high-strand-count conductor allows for a tight bending radius, making it perfect for wiring in cramped engine rooms or control panels.
  • Oil & Chemical Resistance: The CPE jacket is specifically formulated to withstand continuous exposure to diesel fuel, hydraulic fluids, and industrial solvents.
  • Flame Retardant & MSHA Listed: Meets rigorous safety standards for use in mining and transit applications where fire safety is a critical concern.
  • All-Weather Performance: Remains pliable in sub-zero temperatures and maintains its integrity in ambient heat up to 90°C.
Common Applications
  • Diesel-Electric Locomotives: The industry-standard wiring for traction motors, generators, and control systems in the rail industry.
  • Oil & Gas Drilling Rigs: Providing high-amperage power to top drives, mud pumps, and drawworks on land and offshore rigs.
  • Mining & Earthmoving Equipment: Used in the internal wiring of massive electric shovels, haul trucks, and continuous miners.
  • Data Center Backup Power: Serving as the flexible "jumper" between large-scale UPS battery banks and power distribution units (PDUs).
  • Marine & Shipboard Power: Ideal for engine room wiring and shore-to-ship power cables due to its salt-water and oil resistance.
  • Renewable Energy Systems: Connecting large-scale battery storage banks and wind turbine generators to power inverters.
  • Temporary Power Bypasses: Used for heavy-duty 2000V temporary power runs in industrial maintenance and disaster recovery.

Resources & Guides

What is Tinned Copper? Why Professionals Choose It Over Bare Copper
January 19, 2026
Read More