SF6 (sulfur hexafluoride) is a synthetic gas widely used in the power industry, with excellent insulation performance and arc extinguishing capability, making it an ideal insulation medium for electrical equipment.SF6 density relay plays a key role in maintaining the safe operation of power equipment, while SF6 micro waterdensity transmitter is an important tool for monitoring and maintaining the SF6 gas state. This article will introduce the application of SF6 micro waterdensity transmitter and its importance in maintaining the safe operation of power equipment.
As an insulation and arc extinguishing medium in the power industry, SF6 has many excellent properties, making it widely used in high-voltage circuit breakers, switchgear, and substations. The use of SF6 brings multiple benefits, including:
Small footprint: SF6-filled electrical equipment is relatively small, which helps save space and reduce equipment footprint.
Low operating noise: Compared with traditional air-insulated equipment, SF6 equipment operates with lower noise, reducing the impact of noise on the environment.
No fire hazard: SF6 is a non-combustible gas, so using SF6-insulated electrical equipment does not pose a fire hazard.
These characteristics make SF6 widely used in the power industry, especially in high-voltage, high-capacity power equipment such as high-voltage circuit breakers and GIS (Gas Insulated Switchgear).
Although the application of SF6 in power equipment brings many advantages, monitoring the state of SF6 gas has also become crucial.SF6 gas humidity and density are crucial factors determining its insulation and arc extinguishing performance. However, during the manufacturing, installation, and operation of SF6 high-voltage switchgear, a certain amount of moisture may be introduced, resulting in the humidity and density of SF6 gas exceeding the rated range.
Excessive moisture content in SF6 gas can lead to severe problems, including:
Chemical Reactions: Moisture in SF6 gas at high temperatures can cause hydrolysis reactions, producing toxic gases such as hydrofluoric acid (HF) and sulfur fluorides. These substances can be harmful to equipment and the environment.
Corrosion: Generated hydrofluoric acid (HF) can corrode insulation and metal components, reducing the reliability and lifespan of equipment.
Hazardous Gases: Decomposition of SF6 gas under high-temperature conditions can also produce sulfur dioxide (SO2), a greenhouse gas, contributing to atmospheric pollution.
Safety Risks: Elevated pressure in SF6 gas can increase the pressure on circuit breakers, thereby reducing the equipment's withstand voltage and interrupting capacity. In extreme cases, this could lead to circuit breaker explosions, triggering electrical accidents.
To monitor the state of SF6 gas, especially its humidity and density, SF6 hygrometer density transmitters have been developed. This equipment can provide real-time monitoring of moisture content and density in SF6 gas, ensuring they remain within rated ranges. Its applications include:
Manufacturing Processes: During the manufacturing of SF6 high-voltage switchgear, SF6 hygrometer density transmitters can ensure that equipment on the production line meets specification requirements.
Equipment Installation and Maintenance: During equipment installation, dismantling, maintenance, and operations such as gas filling and topping up, SF6 hygrometer density transmitters can detect the state of SF6 gas, ensuring the proper functioning of equipment.
Operation of Equipment: SF6 hygrometer density transmitters play a crucial role in monitoring the state of SF6 gas during equipment operation. This aids in identifying issues promptly and taking measures to prevent equipment damage and accidents.
As environmental awareness grows, the power industry is placing increased emphasis on the management and emissions of SF6 gas. Currently, industry regulations mandate the monitoring and management of the state of SF6 gas. This includes daily patrols to monitor gas density and checking the water content of SF6 gas every 1-2 years. Portable dew point meters are often used for on-site testing of moisture content to ensure SF6 gas remains within a safe range.