NY Moves to Phase out SF6 in New Electrical Gear
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NY Moves to Phase out SF6 in New Electrical Gear
Gradual Ban on Sulfur Hexafluoride Installations Would Start in
Sulfur hexafluoride equipment is shown at a geothermal power plant substation. New York is proposing new regulations on SF6, the most potent greenhouse gas. |
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New York is moving to limit the use of sulfur hexafluoride in electrical power and distribution equipment and to reduce leakage of the most potent greenhouse gas.
Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6) Basics | US EPA
Greenhouse Gas
Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) is a synthetic fluorinated compound with an extremely stable molecular structure. Because of its unique dielectric properties, electric utilities rely heavily on SF6 in electric power systems for voltage electrical insulation, current interruption, and arc quenching in the transmission and distribution of electricity. Yet, it is also the most potent greenhouse gas known to-date. Over a 100-year period, SF6 is 23,500 times more effective at trapping infrared radiation than an equivalent amount of carbon dioxide (CO2). SF6 is also a very stable chemical, with an atmospheric lifetime of 3,200 years. As the gas is emitted, it accumulates in the atmosphere in an essentially un-degraded state for many centuries. Thus, a relatively small amount of SF6 can have a significant impact on global climate change.
Use in Electric Power Systems
Since the 1970s, the U.S. electric power industry has used SF6 in circuit breakers, gas-insulated substations and other switchgear used in the transmission system to manage the high voltages carried between generating stations and customer load centers. Disconnectors and ground switches use SF6 primarily for insulation, and individually, they contain only slightly less SF6 than a circuit breaker. These devices are used to isolate portions of the transmission system where current flow has been interrupted (using a circuit breaker). Gas-insulated substations also use a significant amount of SF6, and GIS installations house SF6-insulated circuit breakers, busbars and monitoring equipment. The largest use of SF6 occurs in high-voltage circuit breakers, where, in addition to providing insulation, SF6 is used to quench the arc formed when an energized circuit breaker is opened.
Several factors affect SF6 emissions from electric power systems, such as the type and age of the SF6-containing equipment (e.g., old circuit breakers can contain up to 2,000 pounds of SF6, while modern breakers usually contain less than 100 pounds) and the handling and maintenance procedures practiced by electric utilities. Because of its long-life span and high global warming potential (GWP), even a relatively small amount of SF6 can impact the climate.
The electric power industry can reduce the nation’s SF6 emissions through cost-effective operational improvements and equipment upgrades. Through improvements in the leak rate of new equipment, refurbishing older equipment, and the use of more efficient operation and maintenance techniques, utilities often find economical solutions to reduce SF6 emissions.
Under the partnership, EPA shares information on best management practices and technical issues to help reduce emissions. Some cost-effective options to reduce SF6 emissions are:
- Leak Detection and Repair
- Use of Recycling Equipment
- Employee Education/Training
Reducing SF6 emissions helps electric power systems:
- Save Money - Purchasing SF6 can be expensive, so reducing emissions can save money.
- Increase Grid Reliability - Use of improved SF6 equipment and management practices helps protect system reliability and efficiency.
- Protect the Environment - SF6 is the most potent greenhouse gas known. It is 23,500 times more effective at trapping infrared radiation than an equivalent amount of CO2 and stays in the atmosphere for 3,200 years.
Common Emission Sources
SF6 is used in several different industries including:
- electrical transmission and distribution equipment
- manufacture of electronics / semiconductors
- production of magnesium
The most common use for and largest emission source of SF6, both domestically and internationally, is as an electrical insulator in high voltage equipment that transmits and distributes electricity. Approximately 75 percent of all SF6 emissions in the United States is attributed to the electrical transmission and distribution sector based on the Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks.
SF6 containing equipment is designed to avoid emitting any of this gas into the atmosphere. However, SF6 gas can inadvertently escape into the atmosphere as leaks develop during various stages of the equipment's lifecycle. In some cases, significant leaks can occur from aging equipment. Gas can be released at the time of equipment manufacturing, installation, maintenance and servicing, and de-commissioning.
Implications for Businesses and the Environment
Businesses operating within New York's electrical industry need to prepare for the impending regulations by exploring alternative technologies and improving existing operations to comply with the phase-out of SF6. This transition, while challenging, presents opportunities for innovation in the field of electrical insulation and a chance to set new industry standards that are more environmentally friendly.
In the long term, the reduction of SF6 emissions will have a significant positive impact on the environment. By limiting one of the most potent greenhouse gases, New York sets a precedent for other states and countries to follow, leading to global improvements in climate change mitigation efforts.
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SF6’s high GWP and longevity in the atmosphere underscore the importance of immediate and effective action. With advancements in technology and better practices, the transition away from SF6 is not only viable but essential for the future of our planet.
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