Introduction: What the SFX MF1 Twin Flex Cable Is and Why It Matters
The SFX MF1 Twin Flex Cable (1.0 mm9, 100 m, black PVC, product code MF1 / ITM001025) is a purpose-built, light-duty mains cable supplied on a convenient 100 m roll. Designed and marketed by SFX Cables, the MF1 provides a flexible, small-diameter twin-core solution for short indoor power runs where low current capability and ease of use are priorities. With a stranded copper conductor construction (24 0.2 mm strands), PVC insulation and a black PVC outer sheath, this cable is positioned as an economical, general-purpose option for powering audio equipment, access control panels and other low-demand mains devices.
- Conductor: 24 0.2 mm stranded bare copper for good flexibility.
- Cross-section: 1.0 mm9 (twin flex, two cores).
- Insulation / sheath: PVC insulated cores with black PVC outer sheath.
- Length: 100 m roll (display tag: 100m Roll).
- Electrical guidance: listed at 300/300 V and referenced to BS6500 on supplier listing; supplier guidance suggests approx. 6 A current capacity for typical installations.
- Product code: MF1 / ITM001025; Brand: SFX Cables.
- Suggested retail price: 55.99 (cost price shown as 46.52).
Detailed specifications and practical benefits
The MF1 is built around a 1.0 mm9 conductor cross-section formed from 24 strands of 0.2 mm bare copper. Stranded construction makes the cable more flexible and easier to route around bends compared with a solid conductor of the same cross-section. The twin flex format provides two cores, typically used for line and neutral in single-phase mains applications, and the black PVC sheath gives a discreet, low-visibility finish for installations where appearance matters (for example, behind AV racks or within trunking).
Key technical specifications include a supplier-listed voltage rating of 300/300 V and a reference to BS6500 as the standard on the supplier page. The supplier guidance indicates an approximate usable current of around 6 A for typical installations. This combination makes the cable suitable for low-current mains tasks rather than heavier duty power distribution.
Benefits in practical terms:
- Flexibility and ease of handling: The fine-stranded conductor improves the cables ability to negotiate bends and tight spaces, simplifying installation in furniture, racks and junction boxes.
- Neat appearance and concealment: The black PVC sheath helps the cable blend into background surfaces and AV installations, reducing the need for additional sleeving or trunking for aesthetic purposes.
- Long roll length: A 100 m roll reduces the need for joints and splices on many small projects, speeding installation and improving reliability compared with short lengths pieced together.
- Economy: As a light-duty product, MF1 generally comes at a lower price point than heavy-duty or specialty cables, making it attractive for cost-conscious installers and small-scale projects.
Use cases and scenarios where the product excels
The SFX MF1 is deliberately positioned for indoor, light-duty applications. It excels where short power drops and flexible routing are the dominant requirements rather than high current capacity or harsh environmental exposure. Typical use cases include:
- Audio equipment power runs: Small amplifiers, mixers and rack-mounted devices that draw modest current and benefit from discreet, flexible cabling behind AV racks or within stage equipment setups.
- Access control and door entry systems: Powering control panels, door strikes and small power supplies where runs are short and permanent outdoor exposure is not required.
- Low-duty mains runs for small appliances and test rigs: Temporary or semi-permanent power feeds for bench equipment, chargers and small domestic devices where flexible, easily terminated cabling is desirable.
- Short drops in retail or office fit-outs: Feeding low-current devices from nearby distribution points where flexible routing and a neat finish are preferred.
It is important to note the MF1 is described by the supplier as light-duty and generally unsuitable for outdoor use or heavy industrial environments. For outdoor or exposed installations, or where higher continuous currents are required, a cable specified for those conditions should be chosen instead.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When selecting a twin-flex cable, installers typically compare conductor cross-section, flexibility, sheath material and ratings. A few points of comparison to consider:
- Versus 0.75 mm9 twin flex: 0.75 mm9 variants are common for signal and very-light power tasks; the 1.0 mm9 MF1 offers a modest increase in current capability and slightly lower resistance for the same run length, making it a better choice where a small additional margin is required.
- Versus 1.5 mm9 twin flex: 1.5 mm9 cable is widely used for lighting and heavier domestic circuits. It can safely carry higher currents and is more appropriate for sustained loads. If your application approaches or exceeds the MF1s suggested 6 A guidance, a 1.5 mm9 cable may be the safer, code-compliant choice.
- Versus rubber-insulated or HOFR cables: Rubber or heat- and oil-resistant (HOFR) cables are designed for harsher conditions (industrial sites, stage use, outdoor exposure). The MF1 (PVC sheath) is lighter-duty and more cost-effective for indoor use but lacks the environmental and mechanical robustness of HOFR constructions.
- Versus tinned copper variants: Tinned copper conductors are often chosen for marine or corrosive environments. The MF1 uses bare copper, which is standard for indoor general-purpose use but not recommended where corrosion resistance is needed.
Choosing the right cable therefore reduces to matching the MF1s attributes (flexibility, economical price, indoor suitability) with your installations environmental and electrical requirements. When in doubt, consult load calculations, derating guidance for bundling, and local wiring regulations (e.g., BS 7671 in the UK).
Customer testimonials and representative feedback
The supplier page does not currently list formal customer testimonials or independent reviews for the SFX MF1. Below are representative pieces of feedback that reflect commonly reported installer impressions for cables of this type (illustrative rather than verbatim user reviews):
- "Good value for short indoor power runs."— installers often cite the 100 m roll and competitive price as strengths for small projects and maintenance tasks.
- "Easy to strip and terminate."— the fine-stranded conductor construction is frequently mentioned as simplifying termination into connectors and terminal blocks, though care is needed to prevent stray strands when fitting into screw terminals.
- "Not for outdoors."— a common caution: users appreciate the MF1 for indoor use but note it is not intended for exterior exposure or heavy industrial environments without additional mechanical protection.
Conclusion: Is the SFX MF1 Twin Flex Cable the right choice?
For installers, hobbyists and fit-out contractors seeking a flexible, discreet and economical twin-flex cable for indoor, low-current mains runs, the SFX MF1 (1.0 mm9, 100 m roll) is a compelling option. Its stranded copper conductors, PVC insulation and black sheath provide the practical benefits of flexibility, neat appearance and convenient roll length that suit audio equipment, access control, short bench power feeds and similar applications.
However, this cable is intentionally light-duty. It should not be selected where higher continuous currents, outdoor exposure, mechanical abuse or specific regulatory certifications (e.g., a documented CPR/Euroclass rating or BASEC approval) are required. Before specifying the MF1 for regulated or critical installations, request a full manufacturer datasheet and confirm applicable temperature, resistance and fire performance ratings. Always comply with local wiring regulations (BS 7671 in the UK) and consult a competent electrician for mains work.
In short, the SFX MF1 offers a practical, cost-effective solution for many indoor low-duty power needs. When matched to appropriate use cases and installed in accordance with guidance, it delivers straightforward installation, a tidy finish and good value for money.
