b'Partner News Winter 2023 23EnterpriseSulphur hexafluorideTaking the lead as engineers in the data centre industry, we can inspire and drive the charge for other sectors to do the same. SF6 is not only used in data centres but gas: What is it andalso in sectors such as renewable energy production, including wind power, and its usage may increase with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and other energy-hungry why should you care? applications that require switchgear. Exploring alternatives to SF6 in switchgearSeveral promising solutions have emerged that offer effective insulation and arc-quenching properties, without the harmful By Peter Betts, Engineering Directorenvironmental effects associated with SF6. These alternatives include air-insulated at VIRTUS Data Centres, IET Associate Member switchgear (AIS), vacuum-insulated switchgear (VIS), solid insulation solutions and the development of new gases.Its important to note that the adoption of alternative solutions may require adjustments in design, engineering, and Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) gas, renownedUnfortunately, the GWP of SF6 gas farmanufacturing processesand many are for its effectiveness in switchgearexceeds that of carbon dioxide, contributingcurrently in their infancy. However, as applications, is a critical part of anysignificantly to global warming and climateindustry demand for SF6-free switchgear electrical infrastructure. However, it carrieschange. Furthermore, when exposed togrows and technology advances, these a drawback: its potent greenhouse gashigh temperatures, SF6 transforms intoalternative solutions are becoming more properties. With a global warming potentiala harmful powder, posing severe risksaccessible and viable.(GWP) tens of thousands of times worseto human health. And although relevant than carbon dioxide, and annual emissionspersonnel receive training on properKey considerations and looking aheadgrowing (global SF6 emissions grew 24%handling, containing SF6 gas is challenging,Whilst the cost implications of adopting between 2008 and 2018), SF6 poses a realleading to permissible leakage levels thatSF6-free switchgear are not yet fully threat to the planets climate stability andpose environmental and safety concerns.understood, driving market demand will global warming.While the European Community has alreadylikely lead to improved affordability. As taken steps to eliminate SF6, the UK is yetmore manufacturers invest in research and Because of this, it is imperative for theto implement such regulations.development and scale up the production of data centre industry and other electricity- alternative switchgear solutions, economies intensive sectors to take the lead andThe importance of driving change of scale can drive down costs. The more champion innovative switchgear solutionsEven in the absence of legislation, it isstakeholders that express their preference that eliminate the use of harmful SF6 gas.crucial for industry leaders and engineers tofor SF6-free switchgear, the more favourable drive innovation and make environmentallythe cost-benefit equation will become.Understanding SF6 gas and itsresponsible choices. By calling for the use environmental impact of SF6-free switchgear, we can incentivise As engineers, we know that switchgear ismanufacturers to invest in research and an essential component of power systemsdevelopment, leading to the production of which have high power requirements.more environmentally friendly solutions.'