Revolutionising switchgear

In our energy-intensive world, electrical infrastructure is crucial for maintaining uninterrupted power networks. However, the widespread use of sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) gas in switchgear poses an environmental challenge.

SF6, perhaps best known for its effectiveness in switchgear applications, has a major drawback: its potent greenhouse gas properties. With a global warming potential (GWP) tens of thousands of times higher than carbon dioxide, we know that SF6 contributes to climate instability and worsens global warming. Complicating matters, accurately tracking SF6 emissions, particularly in developing countries, is challenging, which may lead to underestimating its release into the atmosphere.

The urgency to address this issue compels us to confront this environmental concern head-on. To combat the threat, the data centre industry and other electricity-intensive organisations such as large power stations, wind turbines and electrical sub-stations in towns and cities must take the lead. By championing innovative switchgear solutions that eliminate the use of harmful SF6 gas, these sectors can demonstrate their unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices.

Driving Progress Towards SF6-Free Switchgear

While the European Community has taken significant strides in phasing out SF6 gas, the United Kingdom is yet to adopt similar legislation. However, even in the absence of regulatory mandates, it remains crucial for the industry to proactively embrace innovation and make environmentally responsible choices. At VIRTUS, we firmly recognise the importance of leading this transformative change.

By actively advocating for SF6-free switchgear and encouraging its widespread adoption, data centre operators and the industry as a whole can demonstrate their unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability. And, as a major consumer of energy, the data centre industry possesses the influence to create substantial market demand for SF6-free switchgear. By advocating for its use, operators can incentivise manufacturers to invest in research and development, fostering the creation of more environmentally friendly solutions.

Change can be propelled by market forces and is not solely reliant on legislation. By showcasing the growing demand for sustainable switchgear, data centre operators can spur the industry to prioritise innovation and accelerate the development of alternative, SF6-free

technologies. By leading the charge within the data centre industry, operators have the potential to inspire and drive similar transformations in other sectors.

It is also essential to recognise that SF6 gas finds usage not only in data centres but also in sectors such as renewable energy production, including wind power. As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and other energy-hungry applications continues to rise, the usage of switchgear incorporating SF6 may increase as well. By taking a proactive stance and actively promoting the adoption of SF6-free switchgear, companies like VIRTUS aim to create a ripple effect, encouraging other sectors to follow suit and embrace more sustainable practices.

The Race for Alternative Solutions

As the industry seeks to reduce the environmental impact of SF6 gas in switchgear, research and development efforts have been focused on identifying alternative technologies and materials that can provide effective insulation and arc-quenching properties without the harmful environmental effects associated with SF6. These alternatives aim to achieve the same level of reliability, safety, and efficiency as SF6-based switchgear while minimising the carbon footprint and reducing reliance on non-renewable resources.

The exploration of sustainable alternatives is driven by environmental regulations, customer demands for environmentally friendly products, and the industry's commitment to sustainable practices. Manufacturers, researchers, and industry stakeholders are actively engaged in developing and evaluating various options to find the most viable alternatives to SF6 gas in switchgear applications.

By embracing these sustainable alternatives, the industry aims to achieve a more environmentally friendly and sustainable future for electrical switchgear, reducing the carbon footprint and contributing to global efforts in combating climate change.

1. Air-Insulated Switchgear (AIS):

Air-insulated switchgear relies on air as the primary insulation medium, eliminating the need for SF6 gas. By harnessing air, which is a natural and abundant resource, AIS significantly reduces the environmental impact. It offers reliable performance, simplicity, and ease of maintenance. AIS has been widely adopted in various applications and is a mature technology.

While AIS offers several benefits, it is important to note that it may have limitations in terms of compactness and its ability to handle high voltages efficiently. Compared to SF6-based switchgear, AIS typically requires more physical space due to the larger dimensions of air-insulated components. Additionally, at higher voltage levels, the insulation requirements

become more stringent, which can result in larger dimensions and increased costs for AIS systems.

2. Vacuum-Insulated Switchgear (VIS):

Vacuum-insulated switchgear utilises a vacuum as the insulation medium instead of SF6 gas. Vacuum offers excellent dielectric properties, making VIS an effective alternative. VIS provides high reliability, low maintenance requirements, and a compact design. It has gained popularity in medium voltage applications and is now being developed for high voltage applications as well. The absence of SF6 gas in VIS eliminates the associated environmental risks.

The vacuum insulation in VIS not only offers superior electrical insulation properties but also eliminates the possibility of gas leaks and reduces the need for gas handling procedures. This enhances the safety aspect and minimises the environmental risks associated with switchgear operations.

3. Development of New Gases:

Researchers and manufacturers are actively working on the development of alternative gases with lower global warming potentials (GWPs) compared to SF6. These gases aim to provide effective insulation and arc-quenching capabilities while minimising the environmental impact. Some promising alternatives under investigation include nitrogen (N2), carbon dioxide (CO2), and fluoroketones (FKs). These gases exhibit significantly lower GWPs, making them more environmentally friendly options for switchgear insulation.

4. Solid Insulation Solutions:

In addition to exploring gas alternatives, efforts are underway to develop solid insulation solutions for switchgear. Solid insulation materials offer excellent electrical insulation properties and eliminate the need for any greenhouse gases. By using solid insulation, switchgear systems can achieve long-term sustainability benefits and reduce their environmental footprint.

It’s important to note that the adoption of alternative solutions may require adjustments in design, engineering, and manufacturing processes – and many are currently in their infancy. However, as industry demand for SF6-free switchgear grows and technology advances, these alternative solutions are becoming more accessible and viable.

Whilst the full cost implications of adopting SF6-free switchgear are not yet fully understood, the increasing market demand is expected to drive improved affordability. As more manufacturers invest in research and development and scale up production of alternative switchgear solutions, economies of scale can lead to cost reductions. And, as stakeholders express their preference for SF6-free switchgear, the cost-benefit equation becomes more favourable.

The environmental impact of SF6 gas in switchgear extends beyond data centres and affects various sectors heavily reliant on electricity. However, due to its rapid growth, the data centre industry has the potential to drive change by creating market demand for SF6-free switchgear. VIRTUS aims to inspire the industry by setting an example for other sectors and catalysing a ripple effect of sustainable practices. By prioritising the use of SF6-free switchgear, we can pave the way towards a greener and more sustainable electrical ecosystem. Together, we can contribute to reducing the environmental impact of switchgear and foster a more sustainable future.