The global switchgear market was worth more than $120 billion last year and will grow by over 6 percent until 20261. SF6 (Sulfur hexafluoride) is a reliable insulation gas which has been used in switchgear for more than 50 years worldwide. It has excellent insulation qualities but also has a high global warming potential (GWP) and is a potent greenhouse gas.
Upcoming regulations regarding SF6 will further motivate customers to adopt SF6-free switchgear technology for the future.
ABB hosted a virtual webinar focused on AirPlus Technology featuring ABB experts, as well as research partner 3M, gas handling partner DILO, and customer Enel.
Alessandro Palin, Distribution Solutions Division President, emphasized ABB’s commitment to a greener and more sustainable future. Ten years ago, ABB committed to finding a sustainable alternative to SF6 for gas-insulated switchgear (GIS). To start the transition to an SF6-free portfolio, ABB began investigating alternatives that meet the requirements of customers.
ABB developed AirPlus, a pioneering eco efficient gas mixture that consists of ~ 85% dry air and ~15% 3M™ Novec™ 5110 Insulating Gas. AirPlus has all the benefits of SF6 insulation and a safe low-pressure design – all with a GWP of less than one.
During the webinar, 3M explained that Novec 5110 has been subjected to tests as per strict EU guidelines and described the tests carried out in independent laboratories, including repeat dose inhalation tests. This confirmed that Novec 5110 Insulating Gas has a wide safety margin for workers when used as designed for intended applications in gas insulated electrical equipment.
For more than five years ABB has brought this proven SF6-free technology to market. More than 4,000 SF6-free switchgear units have been installed with Dry Air or AirPlus technology worldwide in utilities, building and infrastructure and industry sectors. During the webinar, multinational energy company Enel shared their vision of decarbonisation and electrification and their experience with AirPlus.
Although ABB’s GIS solutions do not require gas handling on site, gas handling specialist DILO explained that if servicing is needed at the customer’s site, AirPlus handling is similar to SF6 handling.
Hari Narayanan, Global Product Group Manager at ABB for GIS explained: “The world is in a transition phase and the focus is increasingly on protecting the environment. From ABB’s 50 years of experience in GIS and the learnings we have achieved in our installed base with AirPlus over the last 5 years, we are convinced this proven technology is an excellent alternative for SF6. We hope that this webinar will help you in planning your transition to more sustainable solutions.”
1 according to market research firm Global Market Insights
