SF6 Recovery and Filling Machines: How They Work, Their Applications, and Environmental Benefits

SF6 Recovery and Filling Machines: How They Work, Their Applications, and Environmental Benefits

SF6, or sulfur hexafluoride, is a colorless, odorless, non – flammable, and non – toxic gas. Its exceptional insulating and arc – quenching properties make it a staple in the electrical power industry. However, with a global warming potential 23,500 times that of carbon dioxide, proper handling of SF6 is crucial. This is where SF6 recovery and filling machines prove indispensable.

How SF6 Recovery and Filling Machines Operate

These machines rely on a combination of compression, refrigeration, and filtration. During recovery, a specialized compressor sucks SF6 gas from equipment like high – voltage circuit breakers. The gas is then compressed and cooled by a refrigeration system, typically using R22 refrigerant, to liquefy it for storage. For instance, in a substation maintenance scenario, the machine can recover SF6 gas until reaching a recovery pressure of around 50 – 100 mbar.
When filling, a vacuum pump first evacuates the equipment and pipelines. The machine then transfers the stored SF6 gas, either via pressure difference or compressor suction, until the equipment reaches the working pressure, usually 0.4 – 0.7 MPa.

Key Functions and Features

Multifunctional Capabilities

SF6 recovery and filling machines offer diverse functions. They can vacuum and measure SF6 switches, GIS, and the machine itself. They also perform water and oil treatment on recovered gas, drying and purifying it for reuse. Additionally, they store SF6 in both gaseous and liquid states.

High – Quality Components

These machines feature top – tier components. SF6 – special closed compressors prevent leakage, while rotary vane vacuum pumps with anti – oil – return devices ensure clean evacuation. Imported high – efficiency filters and electric – heated drying filters with advanced adsorbents enhance purification and reduce maintenance.

Safety and Control

Safety is paramount. High – pressure controllers at the compressor exhaust stop operation if pressure exceeds limits. Safety valves on storage containers prevent over – pressure. The electrical system checks the power supply and protects against phase failure, and SF6 – special valves offer precise control.

Wide – ranging Applications

Power Generation and Transmission

In power plants, these machines are used for high – voltage transformer maintenance every 3 – 5 years. In substations, they are essential for installing and repairing GIS. Accurate SF6 filling ensures grid stability. For example, in large – scale power transmission projects, proper SF6 management via these machines is key to reliable operation.

Electrical Equipment Manufacturing

Companies like Siemens and ABB use SF6 recovery and filling machines during production. Reusing SF6 reduces costs and meets environmental regulations, enhancing corporate sustainability.

Environmental Significance

Using these machines has a huge environmental impact. A single machine can prevent 5 – 10 tons of SF6 emissions annually, equivalent to 117,500 – 235,000 tons of CO₂. This significantly helps combat climate change.

In conclusion, SF6 recovery and filling machines are vital for managing SF6 gas. Their advanced operations, versatile features, broad applications, and environmental benefits make them essential for the safe and sustainable use of SF6 in electrical equipment.

Related Equipment

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