SF6 Gas is a colorless, odorless, chemically neutral, and inert gas, non-inflammable and 5 times heavier than air, not toxic, and not ozone-depleting.

Is SF6 harmful to health?

Pure SF6 is physiologically completely harmless. Due to its weight (5 times heavier than air), it might displace the oxygen in the air if large quantities are concentrated in deeper and non-ventilated places. Legislation for chemicals does not categorize SF6 as a hazardous material.

Is SF6 harmful to the environment?

It has no ecotoxic potential and does not destroy the ozone layer.

Why is SF6 used in gas-insulated switchgear (GIS)?

The use of SF6 gas enables to build switchgear that is compact, requires a small amount of material, and guarantees high switching capacity and equipment safety.

What is the maximum allowable leakage rate of the SF6 gas

SF6 gas relative leakage rate of each gas compartment shall not exceed 0.5% per year.

Why is SF6 used in electric power equipment?

Because of its outstanding electrical, physical, and chemical properties enabling significant benefits for the electricity supply network:

§ It insulates 2.5 times better than air (N2),

§ Over 100 times better arc quenching capability than air (N2), and better heat dissipation than air.

What is the standard in case of SF6 gas leakage?

In the event of gas leakage, all parts of the switchgear in the affected compartment shall be able to withstand continuously the maximum rated voltage with SF6 gas at atmospheric pressure.