1mm Single Core Electrical Cable: Specifications & Supply
Your definitive guide to 1.0mm² conduit wire for lighting circuits, switch wires, and control panel applications.
1mm single core electrical cable is a solid or stranded copper conductor wire, typically rated at 450/750V, primarily used for lighting circuits, switch drops, and internal control panel wiring where space is limited and current demand is low. Available in standard PVC (6491X) for general use or Low Smoke Zero Halogen (6491B) for public safety areas, it must always be installed within protective conduit or trunking. We supply a comprehensive range of BASEC-approved 1.0mm² cables and compatible accessories to support your installation projects.
What Is 1mm Single Core Cable Used For?
Primary Applications: Lighting and Control
1.0mm² cable is the standard choice for low-power lighting circuits and control wiring.
Due to its small cross-sectional area, it is ideal for applications carrying lower currents (typically up to 10-16 Amps depending on installation method). Common uses include:
- Lighting Loops: Feeding ceiling roses and luminaires in domestic and commercial properties.
- Switch Wires: Connecting light switches to the main lighting circuit (often requiring brown insulation or blue sleeved brown).
- Control Panels: Internal wiring for instrumentation and control gear where flexibility and space-saving are required.
- Earthing: Used as a Circuit Protective Conductor (CPC) for lighting circuits when a separate earth is required inside the conduit.
How Must It Be Installed?
Single core 1mm cable acts only as the conductor and insulation; it lacks mechanical protection and must be installed inside an enclosure.
Unlike twin and earth cable, single core wire cannot be clipped directly to a wall or buried in plaster. It is designed exclusively for installation within:
- PVC or steel conduit.
- Surface-mounted or flush trunking systems.
- Control cabinets and enclosures.
What Are The Technical Specifications?
Understanding the voltage and current capabilities of 1.0mm² cable is critical for safe circuit design.
Voltage and Current Ratings
- Voltage Rating: 450/750V (U0/U). This makes it suitable for standard single-phase (230V) and three-phase (400V) circuits.
- Current Rating (1mm² 6491X PVC, BS 7671 Table 4D1A, 30°C ambient):
- In conduit in a thermally insulated wall (Method A): 11A single-phase / 10.5A three-phase
- In conduit on a wall or in trunking (Method B): 13.5A single-phase / 12A three-phase
- Clipped direct (Method C): 15.5A single-phase / 14A three-phase (rarely applicable to single core)
Note: Current ratings are subject to de-rating factors such as grouping (multiple cables in one conduit) and ambient temperature. Always consult BS 7671 wiring regulations.
Physical Construction: Solid vs Stranded
1.0mm² cables are available in two primary conductor classes defined by BS EN 60228.
| Class | Construction | Primary Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 (Solid) | Single solid copper wire | Rigidity for neat panel wiring terminations |
| Class 2 (Stranded) | Multiple thin strands (e.g., 7 strands) | Flexibility for drawing through conduit |
1mm Cable Amp Rating and Current Carrying Capacity
How many amps can 1mm cable take?
A 1mm² single core 6491X cable carries 13.5A in conduit on a wall or in trunking (single-phase), 11A in conduit in an insulated wall and 15.5A clipped direct. 1mm twin and earth carries 16A clipped direct but only 10.5A above a ceiling under more than 100mm of insulation. That is why 1mm cable is normally protected by a 6A or 10A device on lighting circuits. Always apply correction factors for grouping, ambient temperature and insulation.
1mm twin and earth current rating
From BS 7671 Table 4D5 for 1mm² flat twin and earth (6242Y) at 30°C ambient:
| Installation method | 1mm T&E rating |
|---|---|
| Clipped direct (Reference Method C) | 16A |
| In conduit on a wall or in trunking (Method B) | 13A |
| Above a plasterboard ceiling, insulation up to 100mm (Method 100) | 13A |
| In conduit in an insulated wall (Method A) | 11.5A |
| Above a plasterboard ceiling, insulation over 100mm (Method 101) | 10.5A |
| In a stud wall, not touching the inner surface (Method 103) | 8A |
Voltage drop for 1mm cable is 44mV/A/m, so check it on long lighting runs. Compare sizes on our twin and earth cable and 10mm single core pages, or use our free cable size calculator.
Which Type of 1mm Cable Should You Choose?
The correct cable choice depends on the installation environment, specifically regarding fire safety regulations.
Standard PVC (6491X / H07V-R)
6491X is the industry standard for general domestic and commercial wiring where fire risk is low.
- Insulation: PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride).
- Operating Temp: Up to 70°C.
- Best For: House rewires, lighting circuits inside trunking, and general power distribution.
Low Smoke Zero Halogen (6491B / H07Z-R)
6491B is mandatory for public buildings and safety-critical areas.
- Insulation: Thermosetting LSZH compound.
- Operating Temp: Up to 90°C (Higher thermal capacity).
- Safety Feature: Emits minimal smoke and zero toxic halogen gases in a fire, aiding evacuation.
- Best For: Hospitals, schools, airports, and shopping centres.
Your Partner for Single Core Wiring
Whether you need a single 100m coil of brown 1.0mm wire for a lighting job or bulk drums for a major commercial fit-out, we stock all colours (Brown, Blue, Black, Grey, Earth) and types ready for immediate dispatch. We also supply the conduit, trunking, and cable accessories required for a complete installation.
Cable Services supply a wide range of products from leading brands, click here to see a sample range of cables that we can offer:
Contact Us
For further details on our products and services please get in touch.
Tel: 0197 854 7310
Email: sales@cableservices.co.uk
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We are known for providing tailored solutions that meet the exact needs of our customers. We recognise the growing demand for a flexible service that eradicates waste and delivers cost efficiencies. The efficiency and precision of this new machine support the industry’s commitment to operational sustainability and allow us to pass on cost savings to our customers.
