High Voltage and SF6

High Voltage/Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6 ) Gas Circuit Breakers

SF6 gas is generally used in many high voltage and medium voltage circuit breakers, for both indoor and outdoor applications due to its excellent dielectric properties. SF6 gas has the ability to quench an arc created when a circuit is operated under load.  Circuit breakers using SF6 gas require special testing and regular gas sampling to assure that moisture or other contaminants have not reduced its ability to work effectively, and sufficient gas is present to extinguish any arcing that may occur. 

SF6 gas is caustic and can leak from the seals and also requires routine inspection.  New technology exists that allow the SF6 gas to be viewed through a special camera that can detect small amounts of gas leakage that may be occuring through seal deterioration.  This new technology now allows inspection of devices without de-energizing the equipment as was required with previous inspection and maintenance practices. 

Other equipment that is used in the voltage class include transformers, reactors, lighting arrestors, grounding swtiches, capacitive coupling voltage transformers (CCVT's), current transformers, potential transformers and protective relays just to name a few.

Southwest Energy Systems, LLC uses experienced, qualified field engineers and technicians that can assist your company with your medium and high voltage equipment to 500kV.