Copo is an abbreviation for copolene, a copolymer-based material used as an insulating or jacketing compound in electrical, control, and communication cables.
In cable manufacturing, copo refers to copolene, an engineered copolymer derived from the combination of olefin compounds such as ethylene and propylene. These materials offer an optimal balance of flexibility, dielectric strength, and environmental resistance, making them suitable for a broad range of industrial and commercial applications. As a copolymer, copolene improves on the limitations of single-base plastics by combining the desirable properties of its constituent materials, such as strength, chemical resistance, and processability.
Copos are commonly used in both insulation and jacketing layers due to their low moisture absorption, smooth surface finish, and strong mechanical integrity. They maintain consistent electrical performance under varying environmental conditions and are particularly useful in cables that experience frequent handling, bending, or installation through conduit systems. These properties make copo compounds ideal for flexible control cables, signal wiring, and AV network cabling that must perform reliably in industrial and automation environments.
Although copolene materials may not match the high-temperature tolerance of advanced thermoset or fluoropolymer compounds, they provide excellent value for general-purpose and low- to medium-voltage applications where durability, insulation strength, and resistance to oils or light chemicals are critical factors.
Materials such as copolene used in insulation and jacketing are evaluated under UL (Underwriters Laboratories), CSA (Canadian Standards Association), and ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards. These organizations define requirements for dielectric performance, flame resistance, and long-term material durability in electrical applications.
The use of copolene compounds began in the mid-20th century as polymer science advanced beyond single-monomer plastics like polyethylene and polypropylene. The introduction of copolymers allowed manufacturers to produce materials with enhanced mechanical flexibility and impact resistance, quickly becoming a mainstay in cable insulation and jacketing for industrial and communication systems.