Sulphur hexafluoride gas: what is it and why should you care?
Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) gas, renowned for its effectiveness in switchgear applications, is a critical part of any electrical infrastructure. However, it carries a drawback: its potent greenhouse gas properties.
With a global warming potential (GWP) tens of thousands of times worse than carbon dioxide, and annual emissions growing (global SF6 emissions grew 24% between 2008 and 2018)[1], SF6 poses a real threat to the planet’s climate stability and global warming.
Because of this, it is imperative for the data centre industry and other electricity-intensive sectors to take the lead and champion innovative switchgear solutions that eliminate the use of harmful SF6 gas.
Understanding SF6 Gas and its environmental impact
As engineers, we know that switchgear is an essential component of power systems which have high power requirements. Unfortunately, the GWP of SF6 gas far exceeds that of carbon dioxide, contributing significantly to global warming and climate change. Furthermore, when exposed to high temperatures, SF6 transforms into a harmful powder, posing severe risks to human health.
Although relevant personnel receive training on proper handling, containing SF6 gas is challenging, leading to permissible leakage levels that pose environmental and safety concerns. While the European Community has already taken steps to eliminate SF6, the UK is yet to implement such regulations.
The importance of driving change
Even in the absence of legislation, it is crucial for industry leaders and engineers to drive innovation and make environmentally responsible choices. By calling for the use of SF6-free switchgear, we can incentivise manufacturers to invest in research and development, leading to the production of more environmentally friendly solutions.
Taking the lead as engineers in the data centre industry, we can inspire and drive the charge for other sectors to do the same. SF6 is not only used in data centres but also in sectors such as renewable energy production, including wind power, and its usage may increase with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and other energy-hungry applications that require switchgear.
Exploring alternatives to SF6 in Switchgear
Several promising solutions have emerged that offer effective insulation and arc-quenching properties, without the harmful environmental effects associated with SF6. These alternatives include air-insulated switchgear (AIS), vacuum-insulated switchgear (VIS), solid insulation solutions and the development of new gases.
It’s important to note that the adoption of alternative solutions may require adjustments in design, engineering, and manufacturing processes – and many are currently in their infancy. However, as industry demand for SF6-free switchgear grows and technology advances, these alternative solutions are becoming more accessible and viable.
Key Considerations and looking ahead
Whilst the cost implications of adopting SF6-free switchgear are not yet fully understood, driving market demand will likely lead to improved affordability. As more manufacturers invest in research and development and scale up the production of alternative switchgear solutions, economies of scale can drive down costs. The more stakeholders that express their preference for SF6-free switchgear, the more favourable the cost-benefit equation will become.