PENTA MTAG | Enhancing Rail Safety with High Voltage Detectors
Published 21 Jul 2025
PENTA MTAG
High Voltage Detector
Now Available from Thorne & Derrick
At Thorne & Derrick, we support the UK rail industry by supplying safety-critical technology designed to protect workers and infrastructure. As an authorised distributor of PENTA Electrical Equipment, we provide a range of innovative products that enhance rail safety across the medium and high voltage power network (MV HV) – the voltage detectors are used to ensure electrical safety on typical voltage distribution systems at 11kV, 25kV, 33kV and 66kV.
Maintenance engineers working on high-voltage railway networks now have a powerful new tool to ensure their safety during critical maintenance operations.
One such product is the PENTA MTAG — a smart high voltage detector recently featured in Rail UK News.
The PENTA MTag is a state-of-the-art voltage detector designed specifically for proving dead on high-voltage distribution systems from 1kV to 69kV, including the 25kV railway network commonly used in overhead line electrification systems.
Developed to meet IEC standards and refined through feedback from industry experts, the PENTA MTag offers unparalleled reliability, durability, and ease of use, providing maintenance crews with confidence when verifying the absence of voltage.
Voltage Detectors | Pictured MV Voltage detector MTAG from PENTA | These voltage detectors are designed for “proving dead”, making sure that nominal voltage is actually absent on a circuit in a high voltage distribution system between 1kV and 66/69kV (no-voltage verification).
What is Penta MTAG?
The PENTA MTAG is a portable, intelligent high-voltage detection system that offers workers in the rail industry a reliable method of confirming that overhead lines are de-energised before work begins. With automatic detection and clear visual/audible alarms, PENTA MTAG enhances electrical safety for teams working on or near electrified tracks.
This technology is a step forward in improving protection during routine maintenance, emergency repairs, and infrastructure upgrades on 25kV OLE Systems.
Key Features
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Non-contact high voltage detection
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Automatic activation when magnetically attached to the conductor
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Failsafe warning system with high-visibility LED lights and audible alerts
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Rugged, compact design built for the rail environment
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Lightweight and easy to deploy in seconds
Engineered for safety in real-world conditions
Railway maintenance often takes place in demanding environments, where visibility, weather, and noise can interfere with safety checks. The PENTA MTag has been designed with these challenges in mind.
Its 100 dB sound signal can be heard even in heavy traffic or high winds, thanks to a natural acoustic horn that amplifies the sound. In addition, the voltage detection device features a wide-angle visual indicator that remains clearly visible in all common working environments, including direct sunlight and fog. The innovative optic ring design ensures visibility even from the side, improving awareness of the whole team at the job site.
Built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, the PENTA MTag features a sealed, watertight electronics compartment that prevents moisture ingress, ensuring long-term reliability. Maintenance crews and safety teams will appreciate the direct access to the battery, which simplifies replacements and minimises downtime – complete range of extendable and telescopic insulating and operating poles are available.
Engineer installs PENTA MTAG high voltage detector on overhead power line using hot stick
A game-changer for railway maintenance
Safety is paramount in high-voltage railway maintenance, and the PENTA MTag addresses the specific needs of engineers working on 25kV overhead line systems. The voltage detection device has been optimised to ensure that maintenance crews can quickly and confidently verify no-voltage conditions before conducting work, minimising risks associated with high-voltage circuits.
Its reliable detection capabilities even in railways stations or multiple parallel lines, and durable design, make it a trusted tool for maintenance professionals working on railway networks around the world.
Designed with the user in mind
“The PENTA MTag is the result of years of feedback from maintenance professionals,” said Bill Earlie, Commercial Manager for PENTA UKI. “We’ve developed a tool that meets the exacting safety standards of the railway industry while ensuring ease of use and long-term reliability.
The PENTA MTag offers audible and visual feedback that cuts through the noise and visibility challenges faced by railway maintenance engineers every day.”
PENTA is a leader in the development of high-voltage testing equipment for critical sectors such as railways, energy utilities and Industries. With, a commitment to innovation and reliability for safety and performance, PENTA continues to develop products that meet the evolving needs of maintenance professionals worldwide.
Why Choose PENTA?
PENTA is a UK-based manufacturer of specialist safety equipment for the rail and electrical engineering sectors. Their solutions are trusted by Network Rail and contractors nationwide to meet the highest standards of safety and compliance.
Thorne & Derrick – Your Rail Safety Partner
We supply the full range of PENTA products including:
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MTAG High Voltage Detectors
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Insulated Tools & Rail-Specific PPE
Whether you’re working trackside, in depots, or on infrastructure upgrades, Thorne & Derrick can help you specify and supply the correct Medium & High Voltage equipment to protect your people and operations.
