HVC-1.5N3S DC 1500 V Substation Voltage Detector

HASEGAWA HVC-1.5N3S is a DC substation voltage detector designed for use in the DC 1500 V traction substations of rail systems. It suits maintenance and operations teams who need to verify absence of voltage on busbars, cubicle outlets and feeder cables in traction power substations before work begins.

The unit is specified for a nominal voltage of DC 1500 V and withstands up to DC 2000 V in contact with a bare conductor. The earth connection is made with an earthing clip, and the housing is dust- and water-resistant to an IP44-equivalent level. When voltage is detected the buzzer gives a warning, and its volume can be set to three levels. The product is manufactured in Japan by HASEGAWA Electric; as the official distributor in Türkiye we provide quotations and technical support.

Where is it used?

In DC substations, the section from the rectifier output to the feeders is made dead during maintenance. At this stage you need to see that isolation has actually been achieved. The HVC-1.5N3S is used for:

• Voltage checks on DC 1500 V busbars and cubicle outlets before maintenance
• Confirming absence of voltage at feeder cable connection points
• Verifying that the circuit is really isolated after the disconnector has been opened
• The final check before earthing is applied

IP44-equivalent protection is an advantage when working in outdoor equipment areas or damp conditions. At approximately 1.8 kg including the earthing clip, it is easy to carry.

HVC-1.5N3S or HVC-1.5N3M?

	HVC-1.5N3S	HVC-1.5N3M
Application	DC 1500 V substation	Monorail systems
Operating voltage	DC 1500 V	DC 600 V / 750 V / 1500 V
Starting voltage	DC 750 V ±50 V	DC 300 V ±20 V
Test output voltage	DC 1000 V ±200 V	DC 500 V ±100 V
Weight (incl. clip)	Approx. 1.8 kg	Approx. 1.6 kg
Protection	IP44 equivalent	IP44 equivalent

The two models share the same housing and the same insulation and withstand ratings; the difference lies in the voltage level and alarm threshold. If your substation is DC 1500 V only, choose the HVC-1.5N3S; if lower DC voltages are also involved, the HVC-1.5N3M is suitable. For the catenary itself, see the HVC-1.5N3 with digital display.

Technical specifications

• Operating voltage: DC 1500 V; maximum DC 2000 V in contact with a bare conductor
• Starting voltage: DC 750 V ±50 V (to earth)
• Insulation resistance: 10 MΩ ±10% between contact tip and earthing clip
• Dielectric strength: AC 4 kV, 1 minute; leakage current ≤1 mA
• Buzzer: at 1 m High 75 dB, Medium 60–75 dB, Low ≤60 dB
• Test output voltage: DC 1000 V ±200 V
• Protection: IP44 equivalent, dust- and water-resistant
• Battery: 4 × R6 / LR6 (1.5 V); operating temperature 0 °C … +50 °C

Limits of use and safety

The HVC-1.5N3S cannot detect negative potential; choose the measuring point accordingly and do not accept a "no warning" result at the negative pole as sufficient. Do not use it on circuits where the DC 2000 V upper limit may be exceeded. Before every use, check the test function, the batteries and the connection of the earthing clip.

The detector is only a checking tool: once absence of voltage has been confirmed, the circuit must be earthed for the duration of the work with earthing equipment. Insulating gloves and PPE must be used in accordance with the substation's safety instructions. For the checking sequence on rail systems, see our article Voltage Testing on Railway Catenary.

Why buy from HASEGAWA Türkiye?

• Help choosing between the S and M versions according to the voltage level of your traction substation
• Detectors and earthing equipment for substation maintenance kits combined in one quotation
• Commercial invoice and technical documentation for public and private rail operators