Sulfur hexafluoride, or SF6, is an essential gas in high-voltage circuit breakers, switchgear, & other electrical equipment.
It works as both
- An insulator &
- An arc-quenching medium,
ensuring that electrical currents are interrupted safely and efficiently.
SF6 gas is used in circuit breakers to insulate & extinguishing arcs that occur when the breaker contacts separate under high voltage.
Its unique features, including as non-flammability, chemical stability, and good electrical insulation, make it a perfect medium for this application.
Furthermore, SF6 allows circuit breakers to function at higher voltages and interrupt higher fault currents than alternatives.
Despite its effectiveness, SF6 is a major environmental concern due to its thousands of times larger global warming potential than CO2.
As a result, there is a rising movement to reduce SF6 usage in electrical equipment and explore environmentally friendly replacements.
You can also follow us on AutomationForum.co, Facebook and Linkedin to receive daily Instrumentation updates.
You can also follow us on ForumElectrical.com, Facebook and Linkedin to receive daily Electrical updates.