1 Gang 13A Unswitched Fused Connection (Spur) in Matte Brass Plate with Plastic Insert by Forbes and Lomax

This is the Forbes and Lomax FC/MBS 1 Gang 13A Unswitched Fused Connection Unit (Fused Spur) in Matte Brass Flat Plate with Black or White Insert available at SparksDirect.co.uk for the best price. The Forbes and Lomax FC/MBS is an unswitched 13A fused connection unit (fused spur) engineered to provide discrete, reliable overcurrent protection for fixed appliances on a ring or radial circuit. Built on Forbes & Lomax’s signature low-profile flat plate architecture, this single-gang accessory delivers a clean, flush-mounting solution for hardwired appliances such as extractor fans, under-cabinet lighting, electric towel rails, and kitchen equipment where local switching on the faceplate is not required.

Exhibiting soft, muted golden undertones, the Matte Brass finish brings understated elegance and period warmth to kitchens, bathrooms (outside zone 2), utility rooms, and living areas. Unlike unlacquered "living" brass, the faceplate features a factory-applied baked clear lacquer coating. This protective seal guards the metal surface against daily wear, oxidation, tarnishing, and fingerprint smudges, allowing it to maintain its pristine appearance over time without requiring regular hand polishing.

Designed for long-term reliability and electrical safety, the FC/MBS features an accessible front-panel fuse carrier equipped with a standard BS 1362 fuse (supplied with a 13A fuse, replaceable with lower ratings as needed). Its minimalist, switchless aesthetic ensures uninterrupted power feed to connected load equipment while blending effortlessly with matching Matte Brass switches and sockets across the property.

Features & Benefits

• Unswitched Protection: Provides continuous, protected power supply to hardwired appliances without the risk of accidental switching or shutoff.
• Front-Accessible Fuse Carrier: Allows quick, safe replacement of the internal BS 1362 fuse without removing the faceplate from the wall.
• Ultra-Slim Flat Plate Profile: Features Forbes & Lomax’s signature low-profile flat plate design for a flush, architectural finish against decorated walls.
• Refined Matte Brass Finish: Soft golden hues bring subtle warmth and luxury to both contemporary and period-inspired interiors.
• Baked Clear Lacquer Protection: Factory-applied protective seal prevents tarnishing, oxidation, and fingerprint marks for low-maintenance upkeep.
• Choice of Insert Trims: Available with a crisp white or classic black plastic insert surround to suit wall decor and palette schemes.
• Solid Brass Engineering: Crafted from high-grade brass components for long-term structural stiffness and a heavy, premium feel.

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: Forbes & Lomax
• Product Code / Model: FC/MBS
• Accessory Type: 1 Gang 13A Unswitched Fused Connection Unit (Fused Spur)
• Plate Finish: Matte Brass (Lacquered)
• Insert / Trim Options: Black or White Plastic Fuse Carrier & Trim
• Fuse Fitted: Standard 13A BS 1362 Ceramic Cartridge Fuse (Replaceable up to 13A)
• Plate Style: Flat Plate / Concealed Sub-Frame Mounting
• Number of Gangs: 1 Gang (Single Size Footprint)
• Current Rating: 13 Amp
• Voltage Rating: 220–240V AC, 50Hz
• Switching Type: Unswitched (Continuous Feed)
• Flex Outlet: Non-flex outlet plate (internal rear/concealed conduit entry)
• Terminal Capacity: 3 x 2.5mm² or 2 x 4.0mm² conductors
• Standard Compliance: BS 1363-4
• Plate Dimensions: Standard Single Gang Footprint (86mm x 86mm)
• IP Rating: IP2XD
• Operating Temperature: -5°C to +40°C
• Maximum Installation Altitude: 2000 metres
• Backbox Depth Required: Minimum 35mm deep flush wall box recommended

Three Reasons Customers Recommend This

1. Clean, Switchless Aesthetic: Eliminates unnecessary switch rockers on wall plates when feeding permanently wired devices like heaters, fans, or cabinet lights.
2. Easy Fuse Access: The front-loading fuse carrier allows effortless inspection or replacement of the fuse without disturbing wall decor or wiring.
3. Maintenance-Free Lacquered Finish: The protective clear lacquer prevents oxidation and thumbprints, removing the need for regular hand polishing.

Who Can Install This?

In the UK, electrical installation work involving fused spur connections and mains fixed appliances must strictly comply with BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations) and Part P of the Building Regulations. Installing or replacing an unswitched fused connection unit must be carried out by a qualified, registered electrician to verify load calculations, correct fused isolation, and safe earthing connection.

Who Is This For?

• Interior Designers & Architects: Specifying discreet overcurrent protection for built-in kitchen appliances, bathroom fan isolators, or accent lighting schemes in luxury residential projects.
• Electricians & Contractors: Requiring premium, BS 1363-4 compliant unswitched spur units that fit reliably into standard UK single flush backboxes.
• Homeowners & Renovators: Looking to replace utilitarian white plastic spur units with high-end brass hardware that matches nearby light switches and sockets.

About the Forbes & Lomax Matte Brass Range

The Matte Brass collection by Forbes & Lomax offers a subtle, warm alternative to high-shine polished brass hardware. Featuring soft golden tones, each faceplate and control component undergoes a specialized lacquering process with a durable baked clear finish. This protective coating guards against daily wear, oxidation, and fingerprint staining, removing the need for polishing.

The full Forbes & Lomax Matte Brass range includes matching accessories such as:

• 1-Way, 2-Way, Intermediate, and Double Pole Dolly Switches
• Standard, Architrave, and Screwless Flat Plates across 1-Gang to Multi-Gang layouts
• Rotary Dimmers & Push Button Dimmer Switches
• Modern Rocker Switches (available with Black or White trims across 1-Gang to 4-Gang layouts)
• 13A Power Outlets & Integrated USB Charger Sockets
• 2A & 5A Unswitched / Switched Round-Pin Sockets
• Telecom, Data, Audio/Visual Outlets & Combination Grid Packs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the fuse inside this unit to a lower amp rating?

Yes. While it comes fitted with a standard 13A BS 1362 fuse, you can swap it for a 3A or 5A fuse depending on the specific rating required by your hardwired appliance.

Does this fused spur include a bottom flex outlet for exposed cables?

No. The FC/MBS is a smooth faceplate intended for concealed wiring exiting directly into the wall box or appliance backbox.

What is the difference between an unswitched fused spur and a switched fused spur?

An unswitched fused spur provides constant power to the appliance (protected by the internal fuse), whereas a switched spur includes an ON/OFF switch rocker on the plate for local manual isolation.

What Else Do You Need With This?

• Flush Metal Backbox: A standard UK single-gang flush metal backbox (86mm x 86mm footprint; minimum 35mm depth recommended).
• Replacement BS 1362 Fuses: Spare 3A, 5A, or 13A ceramic cartridge fuses tailored to your specific connected appliance load.
• Matching Switches & Sockets: Complementary Forbes & Lomax Matte Brass light switches, dimmers, or 13A mains sockets to ensure hardware continuity throughout the space.

Note: Some images and pictures are for reference only. The item may differ from the image/picture due to manufacturer's change. Should you require the exact item in the picture, please call or email us to enquire.