SF6 Free Switching Alternatives Current and Future Trends for HV and MV GIS

Author(s):

Aneesh Thomas , Lucy Electric India

Keywords:

SF₆ Switchgear, SF₆ Free Switching Alternatives for Switchgear, Future Trends in Medium and High Voltage GIS

Abstract:

This paper presents an overview on the research for the alternative gas to SF6 used for transmission and distribution and on the worldwide developments to support this technology. In high voltage and medium voltage applications Sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆) gas has been utilized as electrical insulation and /or for current interruption due to its strong electronegative properties. However, even if SF₆ Switchgears are safe for the environment, the SF₆ insulating gas has potential significant environmental impacts if it leaks into the atmosphere. Indeed, SF₆ is one of the six gases listed in the Kyoto Protocol, with a global warming potential that is 23,500 times greater than CO2. Potential applications of SF6-free gas mixture, called g³ and based on 3M^TM Novec^TM 4710 Dielectric fluid for dielectric insulation and arc switching into high voltage apparatuses are reported with the aim to be low in toxicity and to reduce the global warming potential of the new mixture to typically less than 2% of the SF₆ equivalent with no or minor design modification by respect to typical SF₆ design. This paper presents the research conducted with fluorinated compounds to qualify a new gas to be used into high voltage equipment as SF6 alternatives with properties significantly improved with respect to typical SF₆/N₂ mixtures or others already in use as well as use of vacuum interruption with air for medium voltage applications. We expect this new gas mixture and use of vacuum interruption with air to allow a major move towards a new generation of environmentally friendly switchgears for medium and high voltage applications.

Other Details:

Manuscript Id	:	IJSTEV7I10004
Published in	:	Volume : 7, Issue : 10
Publication Date	:	01/05/2021
Page(s)	:	6-10

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