In modern power systems, reliable and efficient switching equipment is the key to ensuring the stability of power transmission and distribution. SF6 gas insulated switching equipment (abbreviated as GIS) as a core equipment integrating switching, insulation and protection functions, has become the backbone of medium and high voltage power grid. Its outstanding performance is inseparable from the unique properties of SF6 gas. This guide systematically introduces SF6 gas insulated switchgear and focuses on the professional solutions of Chuanli, a well-known manufacturer in the power equipment industry.
SF6 is an artificially synthesized inert gas with excellent chemical stability and electrical properties. It has a very high dielectric strength (about 2.5 times that of air) and an efficient arc extinguishing ability, which can quickly extinguish the arc generated during the operation of switching equipment and prevent electrical breakdown.
SF6 gas is widely used in SF6 gas insulated switching equipment due to the following reasons:
The XGN43 series SF6 gas-insulated switchgear takes full advantage of these advantages of SF6 gas to achieve high-performance operation.
According to the voltage level and application scenario, SF6 gas insulated switching equipment can be divided into several types and widely used in different power grid links:
Medium-voltage SF6 GIS: Suitable for urban distribution networks, industrial parks and commercial complexes.
High-voltage SF6 GIS: Used for transmission lines and large substations, with higher insulation requirements and larger capacities.
Compact SF6 ring network cabinet (RMU): A miniaturized version of medium-voltage GIS, suitable for residential areas, urban street cabinets and other areas with limited space. The related products of Chuanli have the performance of GIS and the flexibility of RMU.
Compared with the traditional air insulated switchgear, the SF6 gas insulated switch gear (SF6 gas insulated switching equipment) has a significant competitive advantage, which is particularly prominent in the products of Chuanli:
Compact structure: The excellent insulation of SF6 gas reduces the size of the equipment by 70% to 80%, greatly saving installation space, which is very important for urban power grids with tight land resources.
High reliability: The full-sealed gas chamber design isolates the internal components from the external environment, avoiding the influence of moisture, dust and harmful gases, and the failure rate is much lower than that of air insulated equipment.
Low maintenance: The SF6 gas-insulated switchgear SF6 (gas insulated switchgear SF6) adopts high-quality sealing technology, with an annual SF6 gas leakage rate of ≤0.1%, reducing the frequency of on-site maintenance and lowering operation and maintenance costs.
Wide range of adaptability: Can operate stably in harsh environments such as high altitude, cold regions, and coastal humid areas, and the working temperature range covers -40 ℃ to 60 ℃.
Strong security: Equipped with SF6 gas density monitoring, leakage alarm and overpressure protection system, ensuring the safety of operators and equipment.
SF6 gas insulated switching equipment has been widely used in many fields due to its excellent performance, and the products of Chuanli have been verified in many practical scenarios:
Urban power distribution network: Compact structure adapts to the installation requirements of urban substations and street cabinets, such as the application of Chuanli XGN43 series in the core areas of many cities.
Industrial and mining enterprises: Reliable performance meets the power supply requirements of high power and high reliability in industries such as steel, petrochemicals, and manufacturing.
New energy power station: Used in wind power, photovoltaic and other new energy grid-connected systems to ensure stable power transmission.
Transportation infrastructure: Used in high-speed rail, subway stations, airports and other power supply systems, with strong environmental adaptability.
Remote and harsh areas: Suitable for highland, desert, and cold regions with limited maintenance conditions, relying on low maintenance characteristics to operate stably.
The selection of SF6 gas insulated switching equipment requires comprehensive consideration of various factors to ensure it matches the actual application requirements. Combining with the product characteristics of Chuanli, the following suggestions are available for reference:
Specify voltage level and capacity: According to the voltage of the power grid and the load capacity, determine the suitable model. The XGN43 series covers multiple voltage levels, meeting diverse needs.
Evaluate the installation space: compact models are preferred in space-restricted scenarios; Open areas take into account both cost and performance.
Analyze environmental conditions: cold, high altitude or humid areas, need to choose products with corresponding environmental adaptability, Chuanli GIS have passed strict environmental testing.
Pay attention to the operation and maintenance conditions: if the on-site maintenance resources are insufficient, choose low maintenance products with reliable sealing performance.
Verify the manufacturer’s strength: Choose manufacturers such as Chuanli with mature technology and perfect after-sales service to obtain professional technical support and spare parts supply guarantee.
SF6 gas insulated switching equipment plays an irreplaceable role in modern power systems, and its performance advantages make it the preferred equipment for the construction of medium and high voltage power grids. With the continuous progress of technology, Chuanli continuously optimizes the design and manufacturing process of SF6 gas insulated switchgear.
Chuanli XGN43-17.5/36kV series SF6 gas insulated switchgear integrates compactness, reliability, and low maintenance, providing a solid guarantee for the safe and efficient operation of the power grid. Choosing suitable SF6 GIS and cooperating with reliable manufacturers such as Chuanli is of great significance to improving the quality of the power grid and reducing operation and maintenance costs.
Q1: What is SF6 gas and why is it used in switchgear?
A1: SF6 is an artificially synthesized inert gas with excellent dielectric strength and arc extinguishing ability, which can provide reliable insulation and rapid arc extinguishing for switchgear, ensuring its safe and stable operation.
Q2: What are the safety benefits of SF6 switchgear?
A2: The safety advantages of SF6 switchgear are significant: it is fully sealed to prevent leakage, equipped with gas monitoring and alarm systems, has reliable insulation and over-voltage protection, and reduces the risk of accidents.
Q3: What is the difference between SF6 GIS and air-insulated switchgear?
A3: The core difference lies in the insulating medium: SF6 GIS uses SF6 gas, compact and reliable, with less maintenance but high initial investment; Air insulated switch uses air, low cost but large volume and frequent maintenance.
Q4: How often does SF6 GIS require maintenance?
A4: The annual leakage rate of SF6 GIS is ≤0.1%, and the gas density and routine inspection can be detected every 1–2 years under normal conditions, and no major overhaul is needed every 15–20 years.
Q5: Can SF6 GIS be installed outdoors?
A5: Yes. Chuanli SF6 GIS has a weather-resistant shell, can operate stably from -40 ℃ to 60 ℃, can withstand harsh weather, and is suitable for outdoor installation in various regions.
Q6: What is the typical lifespan of SF6 in switchgear?
A6: Chuanli SF6 GIS has good sealing performance, the SF6 gas life is consistent with the equipment, usually 25–30 years, no need to replace frequently.