SF6 Gas Management Program Promotes Compliance and Safety

ABB has launched its eco-efficient SF6 Gas Management portfolio. The solution was created in response to ABB’s customers’ commitment to comply with current and future legislation mandated by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resource Board (CARB).

The complete SF6 gas management solution includes: SF6 gas handling services, onsite SF6 lab-like gas decomposition analysis, cylinder consolidation, purification, a certified training program and Infrared SF6 equipment sales, all which was designed to reduce maintenance and replacement costs, improve protection and extension of product life, improve asset management capabilities, and lower safety and noncompliance risks to existing and future climate change regulations. The solution also decreases carbon footprint by supporting federal, state and regional environmental policies by aiding in the reduction of synthetic man-made greenhouse gas emissions.

SF6 gas is extensively used in the electrical industry for dielectric insulation and current interruption due to its physical properties. Pressurized SF6 gas is used for the safe and reliable operation of gas-insulated switchgear as it has a much higher dielectric strength than other insulation media, making it possible to significantly reduce product footprint and enable installation in constrained spaces. However its lifecycle management is a challenge for utility and industrial users and the cost of handling it in a compliant manner can also be substantial, particularly when decommissioning aging substations.