...

What Gas is Used in Ring Main Units (RMUs)?

08/12/2025

Introduction

 

Ring network cabinet (RMU) is the core equipment in the medium-voltage distribution system, providing safe and efficient power supply for residential, commercial and industrial areas. Among all kinds of ring network cabinets, gas-insulated ring network cabinets (Gas Insulated RMU) stand out due to their compact structure and reliable insulation performance, which are closely related to the insulating gas filled inside. This article will delve into the types of gases used in ring network cabinets and focus on the environmental protection solutions of Chuanli, a well-known manufacturer of distribution equipment.

 

Why Gas is Used in RMUs

 

CLH-12/24 Series Eco-Friendly Gas Insulated RMU

 

The core function of gas in the ring network cabinet is insulation. Compared with air-insulated ring-type switchgear, gas-insulated ring-shaped switchgear realizes multiple functions through special gases:

  • Provide excellent electrical insulation performance to prevent arcs in high-voltage environments;
  • Achieve small size of equipment, save installation space (this is very important in urban areas);
  • Enhance heat dissipation capability to ensure stable operation of the equipment under load;
  • Isolate moisture and dust, protect internal components, and improve equipment durability. These advantages make Gas Insulated RMU the preferred equipment for modern power grids.

Which Gas is Used in Gas-Insulated RMU

 

CLH-12/24 Series Eco-Friendly Gas Insulated RMU

 

Traditionally, sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆) has been the mainstream insulating gas in gas-insulated ring-type switchgear (Gas Insulated RMU) due to its excellent dielectric strength and arc extinguishing performance. However, SF₆ is a potent greenhouse gas with a high global warming potential (GWP) and a long retention time in the atmosphere, which has led to more stringent environmental regulations worldwide.

In this context, environmentally friendly alternative gases have emerged. The CLH-12/ 24 series gas-insulated ring-type switchgear (Gas Insulated RMU) of Chuanli adopts low GWP mixed gas (such as g³, C5FIB, etc.), which fully complies with international environmental protection standards. These alternative gases not only retain the excellent insulation performance of SF₆, but also reduce the environmental impact by more than 99%, perfectly matching the global carbon neutrality goal.

 

Advantages of Chuanli Gas-Insulated RMU

 

CLH-12/24 Series Eco-Friendly Gas Insulated RMU

 

Chuanli‘s gas-insulated ring network cabinet combines environmental protection features with high performance, with the following core advantages:

Environmental protection insulation: Replace SF₆ with low GWP gas, in line with EU F-Gas regulations and China’s environmental protection policies.

Compact and space-saving: The footprint is reduced by 70% compared to air-insulated ring-type switchgear, suitable for urban substations and narrow installation scenarios.

Low maintenance cost: The full-sealed gas chamber design significantly reduces gas leakage rate, reducing maintenance frequency and cost.

Wide range of adaptability: Can operate stably in the environment of -40 ℃ to 60 ℃, taking into account both indoor and outdoor installation requirements.

High safety performance: Equipped with pressure monitoring and gas leakage alarm system to ensure safe operation in high-pressure scenarios.

How to Choose the Right RMU

 

The selection of a suitable ring network cabinet (RMU) needs to comprehensively consider the following factors:

Application scenarios: Gas Insulated RMU is the first choice in space-restricted areas (such as downtown) or harsh environments; Air insulated ring switchgear can be considered when the area is open and the cost is sensitive.

Environmental Protection Requirements: In order to achieve the goal of reducing carbon emissions and avoid compliance risks, environmentally friendly products such as CLH series should be selected as a priority.

Operating conditions: Confirm the adaptability of the equipment to temperature, humidity and altitude – Chuanli ring network cabinet performs well in extreme weather conditions.

Maintenance capability: If the on-site maintenance resources are limited, it is recommended to choose equipment with a fully sealed and low maintenance design.

Manufacturer strength: Choose experienced suppliers like Chuanli to ensure product quality and after-sales service guarantee.

 

Conclusion

 

Driven by environmental protection regulations and sustainable development goals, the gas selection of Gas Insulated RMU is shifting from high GWP SF₆ to environmentally friendly alternative gases. The CLH-12/ 24 series gas-insulated ring network cabinet of Chuanli is a representative of the development direction of the industry, which has the advantages of low environmental impact, reliable performance, compact structure and low maintenance cost.

By choosing an RMU that meets environmental standards, adapts to application needs, and is safe and reliable, distribution companies can not only improve the efficiency of the power grid, but also contribute to a green future. Chuanli‘s commitment to innovation and sustainable development has made it a reliable partner for modern distribution solutions.

 

FAQs

 

Q1: What is SF6 gas?

A1: SF₆ is an artificially synthesized gas with excellent electrical insulation and arc extinguishing properties, traditionally used in Gas Insulated RMU. However, because it is a strong greenhouse gas, it is gradually being replaced by environmentally friendly alternative gases.

 

Q2: Are there eco-friendly alternatives to SF6 in RMUs?

A2:Yes. The gas-insulated ring network cabinet (Gas Insulated RMU) adopts a low GWP mixed gas (such as g³), which reduces the environmental impact by more than 99% while maintaining the insulation performance of SF₆.

 

Q3: How often does the gas in RMU need maintenance?

A3: The full-sealed gas-insulated ring network cabinet (Gas Insulated RMU) of Chuanli has a very low gas leakage rate, and only needs to be monitored for pressure once a year. Usually, no major gas-related maintenance is needed for 15–20 years.

 

Q4: Can RMU be installed outdoors safely?

A4: Yes. The gas-insulated ring network cabinet (Gas Insulated RMU) equipped with weather-resistant shell can operate stably at extreme temperatures of -40 ℃ to 60 ℃, and outdoor installation is safe and reliable.

 

Q5: What is the typical lifespan of gas in an RMU?

A5: Thanks to the fully sealed design, the service life of the environmental protection gas in the Gas Insulated RMU is the same as the service life of the equipment (25–30 years), so it does not need to be replaced frequently.

 

Q6: How do RMUs ensure safety in high-voltage systems?

A6:  Ring network cabinet (especially the product of Chuanli) ensures safety through multiple mechanisms:

  • reliable gas insulation prevents the generation of arc;
  • Real-time warning of pressure monitoring and leakage alarm system;
  • The insulating casing protects the operator;
  • Fully complies with international high-pressure safety standards.
RELATED NEWS
YOU MAY ALSO WANT TO SEE
Get High And Low Voltage Power Transmission And Distribution Solutions Today !
X
icon
icon
icon
en_US