Mercury 2 Core Oval Mains Cable 0.5mm² Black - 100m Reel

The Mercury 2-core oval mains cable is a 0.5mm² CSA flexible PVC cable supplied on a 100m reel in black. Each core contains 16 strands of 0.2mm diameter copper wire (16/0.2mm), giving the cable flexibility for routing through tight spaces while maintaining a 3A maximum current rating. The oval cross-section measures 3.5 x 5.4mm, making it flatter and less obtrusive than round-profile cables when run along skirting boards or under carpets.

Designed for light-duty mains applications including table lamps, small domestic appliances, audio equipment and low-power lighting circuits, the cable is suitable for fixed wiring in residential and light commercial settings where the load does not exceed 3A per core. The oval profile allows the cable to sit flush against surfaces and reduces the visible profile when surface-mounted or concealed under floor coverings. The black PVC sheath resists abrasion and protects the conductors from mechanical damage during installation.

The cable carries BSI BS6500 and VDE approvals, confirming compliance with British and European standards for flexible mains cables. The 100m reel provides enough length for multi-room installations, lighting circuits across typical residential spaces, or stock for electrical contractors working on multiple small jobs. The reel format reduces waste compared to pre-cut lengths and allows the cable to be cut to exact requirements on-site.

What is this cable suitable for?

The 0.5mm² CSA and 3A rating make it suitable for table lamps, small domestic appliances, audio equipment, low-power LED lighting circuits and similar light-duty mains applications. It is not rated for higher-load appliances such as kettles, heaters or power tools.

Why is the cable oval rather than round?

The oval cross-section (3.5 x 5.4mm) gives a lower profile than round cables of equivalent CSA, making it easier to conceal under carpets, along skirting boards or in surface-mounted trunking without creating a visible bump.

What do the BSI and VDE approvals mean?

BSI BS6500 is the British Standard for flexible cables for electrical appliances. VDE is the German electrical safety testing body. Both approvals confirm the cable meets safety and quality requirements for mains electrical use in the UK and Europe.

How many metres are needed for a typical room?

A typical 4m x 5m room perimeter lighting circuit might need 20-30m including drops to switches and fittings, plus some spare. The 100m reel provides enough for 3-4 average rooms or multiple smaller circuits.