How to Operate SF6 Handling Equipment Correctly?

How to Operate SF6 Handling Equipment Correctly?

SF6 (sulfur hexafluoride) is a crucial insulating gas widely used in power equipment like circuit breakers and transformers. However, improper operation of SF6 handling equipment can lead to gas leakage, environmental harm, and equipment damage. To ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance, mastering how to operate SF6 handling equipment correctly is essential. This guide breaks down the process step by step.

1. Pre-Operation Preparation: Lay the Foundation for Safety

Before starting, thorough preparation is key to avoiding risks. First, inspect the SF6 handling equipment comprehensively. Check the pressure gauges, hoses, and connectors for cracks or looseness—any damage can cause leakage during operation. Ensure the equipment’s vacuum pump and gas recovery system are in good working order; test the vacuum degree to meet the manufacturer’s standards (usually below 10 Pa).

Next, prepare personal protective equipment (PPE). Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and a respirator, as SF6 gas can cause respiratory irritation if leaked. Also, check the operating environment: ensure good ventilation to prevent gas accumulation, and keep fire extinguishers nearby in case of emergencies. Finally, review the equipment’s user manual to confirm the correct operation parameters, such as gas pressure and recovery speed, which vary by equipment model.

2. In-Operation Procedures: Follow the Correct Steps

When operating SF6 handling equipment correctly, adhere to the following steps to minimize errors.

Step 1: Connect the Equipment Properly

Align the equipment’s hoses with the power device’s SF6 interface. Use torque wrenches to fasten the connectors—over-tightening may damage threads, while under-tightening causes leakage. After connection, perform a preliminary leak test: apply soapy water to the joints and check for bubbles. If bubbles appear, re-fasten the connectors until no leakage is detected.

Step 2: Vacuum the System

Turn on the vacuum pump to evacuate the air from the hoses and the power device’s SF6 chamber. Maintain the vacuum for 15-30 minutes (depending on the equipment size) to ensure all air is removed—air mixed with SF6 reduces insulation performance. Monitor the vacuum gauge during this process; if the pressure rises unexpectedly, stop and check for leaks.

Step 3: Recover or Fill SF6 Gas

Gas Recovery: If the power device needs maintenance, start the recovery system. Adjust the recovery speed to avoid rapid pressure changes, which can damage the equipment. Collect the recovered SF6 in a dedicated cylinder, and label the cylinder with the gas purity and collection date.

Gas Filling: When refilling SF6, use a filter to remove impurities from the gas. Fill the gas slowly, monitoring the pressure gauge to reach the specified value (e.g., 0.6 MPa for medium-voltage equipment). Avoid over-filling, as excessive pressure can rupture the power device.

3. Post-Operation Handling: Ensure Long-Term Safety

After operation, proper handling preserves the equipment and prevents residual risks. First, close all valves of the SF6 handling equipment and the power device. Disconnect the hoses in the reverse order of connection, and cap the interfaces to prevent dust or moisture from entering.

Clean the equipment: wipe the hoses and connectors with a dry cloth, and store the PPE in a clean, dry place. Record the operation details, including the operation time, gas pressure, and leak test results—this helps track equipment performance and comply with regulatory requirements. Additionally, send the recovered SF6 gas to a professional institution for purification if its purity drops below 99.8%, ensuring it can be reused safely.

4. Key Safety and Compliance Tips

To operate SF6 handling equipment correctly, never ignore these critical points. First, avoid operating the equipment in confined spaces without ventilation—SF6 is heavier than air and can accumulate at the bottom, leading to oxygen deficiency. Second, never use damaged equipment; if any component malfunctions, stop operation immediately and repair it by qualified technicians.

Also, comply with environmental regulations: SF6 is a potent greenhouse gas, so all leaked gas must be recovered, and unauthorized emission is prohibited. Finally, conduct regular training for operators—only trained personnel should handle SF6 equipment, as they understand the risks and correct procedures.

Knowing how to operate SF6 handling equipment correctly is vital for protecting the environment, ensuring operator safety, and maintaining the performance of power equipment. By following pre-operation preparation, standard in-operation steps, proper post-operation handling, and strict safety rules, you can minimize risks and achieve efficient, compliant operation. Always prioritize safety and compliance—they are the foundation of successful SF6 equipment operation.