SF6 gas is the core of GIS technology substations, one of the leading modern technologies in the electrical industry today. The electrical energy industry is one of the backbone industries of every nation in the world. So, what is a GIS substation, and what is the role of SF6 in a GIS substation? Let’s find out.
It directly affects the strong development of the entire nation. As well as the daily life and business of the people.
What is a GIS substation?
A GIS substation is a substation that uses SF6 gas-insulated enclosed switchgear (GIS – Gas Insulated Switchgear). The characteristic of this type of substation is that the construction area is much smaller than that of an outdoor substation. Therefore, it saves a lot of space.
Because it is not exposed to the environment and dust, GIS substations are very safe to operate. The frequency of substation maintenance is also significantly reduced.
Substations use GIS technology switching systems, and switching devices, transformers, and busbars are installed inside metal or alloy pipes filled with high-pressure SF6 gas.
GIS substations are very suitable for construction in the center of large cities. Where power consumption is very high but there is not much land available to build substations using traditional switching systems.
Advantages of GIS substations
GIS substations have many outstanding advantages. Below are some of these advantages:
- Takes up less space. Therefore, it saves a lot of costs such as land, equipment, etc.
- Uses SF6 gas as an insulating medium for equipment inside the pipes. The equipment is not exposed to the external environment, so GIS substations are very safe to operate. Maintenance frequency is also significantly reduced.
What is the structure of a GIS substation?
The structure of a GIS substation includes:
- Busbar
- Circuit breaker (CB): A protective switching device filled with SF6 gas
- Disconnector (DS): A device that completely disconnects equipment and lines.
- Earthing switch (ES): A switching device used to isolate equipment for maintenance or to de-energize lines.
- Current transformer (CT)
- Voltage transformer (VT)
- Underground cable connection device
- Bushing
- Explosion relief valve
- SF6 gas monitoring device
- Spacer
- SF6 gas (Sulfur-Hexa-Fluoride)
- Measurement and control equipment
SF6 gas is the core of GIS technology
Due to its nature, the electrical industry is one of the industries listed in the categories of toxic and hazardous industries in all countries.
Therefore, the technologies introduced in the electrical industry, in addition to improving output, efficiency, and transmission capacity, also focus on developing technologies that enhance the safety of operating equipment, especially electrical circuit switching equipment in high-voltage and ultra-high-voltage power grids, helping to reduce the risk of unfortunate accidents.
Technology to enhance the safety of electrical equipment
In recent years, one of the applications that is becoming increasingly popular is the use of gas-insulated enclosed switchgear. Also known as GIS (Gas Insulated Switchgear) equipment in intermediate substations.
And SF6 gas is the gas used. SF6 gas is the core of GIS technology because it is the foundation for the development of this technology.
The reason SF6 gas is the core of GIS substations is that the dielectric strength of SF6 gas allows for a significant reduction in phase-to-phase distance. Leading to a significantly simplified switching system structure.
Therefore, the installation area is also reduced accordingly, which is a huge advantage compared to previous equipment. In addition, because all equipment is gas-insulated and placed inside pipes using SF6 gas insulation, not exposed to the environment and dust, GIS technology switchgear is very safe to operate. The maintenance frequency is much lower than that of open-air substations using traditional switchgear.
With its physical, thermal, chemical stability, and high dielectric strength. In addition to SF6 gas being the core of GIS technology, SF6 gas is truly an excellent gas for other applications.
Important note when using SF6 gas
However, the SF6 gas used must have high purity. Few or no impurities are allowed to ensure that all the desired advantages are achieved.
On the other hand, using gas with many impurities will be dangerous. Especially in high-voltage power grids. Impurities cannot have the properties of SF6 and can reduce the effectiveness of SF6.
Such as dielectric strength. Leading to the risk of dielectric breakdown, which is very dangerous. Or arc-quenching ability, if the arc is not completely and quickly extinguished, the electric arc can cause equipment explosions and endanger the lives of operators as well as the entire power grid.
Where to buy high-quality SF6 products
The quality of SF6 gas is very important in GIS technology. But the SF6 gas supplied domestically is currently imported from third-party countries. This greatly affects quality control. Especially for sellers with unclear information and product quality.
Recognizing these difficulties. MIG Co., Ltd. has signed partnership contracts with major industrial gas companies worldwide. Distributing quality products from these companies to the domestic market.
All products have full quality and chemical safety inspection certificates. Ensuring that SF6 gas meets all the conditions for use in GIS substations.
Coming to MIGCO, customers will be served attentively and purchase high-quality products. The advice and support of the company’s professional staff will bring satisfaction and peace of mind to all customers.
Customers who need or want more detailed information, please contact us:
MIG CO., LTD No. 08, Street 15, Binh Tri Dong B Ward, Binh Tan Dist, Ho Chi Minh City Tel: 093.77.55.800
>> See more: Discover the truth about insulating gas in SF6 circuit breakers
