JNR Class ED15

The Class ED15 (ED15形) was an electric locomotive formerly operated in Japan from 1926 until 1960.[1] The Class ED15 was the first mainline electric locomotive type to be built domestically in Japan.[1]

Class ED15
Preserved ED15 1 in June 2017
Type and origin Power type Electric Builder Hitachi Build date 1926 Total produced 3
Specifications Configuration: ​  • UIC B + B Gauge 1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in) Length: ​  • Over couplers 13,260 mm (43 ft 6 in)  • Body 12,220 mm (40 ft 1 in) Width 2,780 mm (9 ft 1 in) Height 3,840 mm (12 ft 7 in) Loco weight 59 t Electric system/s 1,500 V DC
Performance figures Power output 820 kW Tractive effort 9,000 kgf
Career Operators JNR Number in class 3 Numbers ED15 1 - 3 Retired 1960 Preserved 1 Disposition All withdrawn

History

Three locomotives were built by Hitachi in Mito, Ibaraki, in 1926, based on electric locomotives previously imported from overseas.[1] Initially designated Class 1170 under the original Japanese Government Railways (JGR) numbering scheme, the locomotives became Class ED15 from 1928.[1]

The locomotives were initially used on Tokaido Main Line freight services, and were later employed on the Chuo Main Line.[1]

The locomotives were withdrawn from service between 1959 and 1960.[1]

• 
  ED15 1 drawing
• 
  ED15 2 drawing
• 
  ED15 3 drawing

Preservation

ED15 1 is preserved at the Hitachi Mito Factory in Hitachinaka, Ibaraki.[1]

Classification

The ED15 classification for this locomotive type is explained below.

• E: Electric locomotive
• D: Four driving axles
• 15: Locomotive with maximum speed 85 km/h or less

See also

Mechanical Engineering Heritage (Japan), No. 45: Type ED15 Electric Locomotive.

References

1. Sasada, Masahiro (25 November 2014). 国鉄&jr 保存車大全 2015-2016 国鉄&JR保存車大全2015-2016 [JNR & JR Preserved Rolling Stock Complete Guide 2015-2016] (in Japanese). Tokyo, Japan: Ikaros Publications Ltd. p. 19, 121. ISBN 978-4863209282.