3. Safety
Danger caused by decomposition products
Insulating gas in electrical systems may contain decomposition products generated by
electric arcs:
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Gaseous sulphur uoride
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Sulphur hexauoride
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Solid and atomized metal uorides, metal suldes, metal oxides
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Hydrogen uoride
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Sulphur dioxide
Decomposition products can be harmful to health.
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They can cause poisoning by inhalation, ingestion or contact with the skin.
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They may be irritating to the eyes, the respiratory system or the skin and burn them.
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Inhalation of large quantities may damage the lungs.
Observe the following safety instructions in order to avoid danger from insulating gas:
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Wear personal protective equipment.
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Read the material safety data sheet of the gas supplier.
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With large leaks, evacuate the area quickly.
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Ensure good ventilation.
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Ensure the leak tightness of the equipment with a leak detector (e.g. model GIR-10).
3.5 Valid standards and guidelines
Installation, assembly, commissioning:
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BGI 753 (SF₆ plants and equipment in Germany)
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IEC 61634 (Handling of SF₆ gas)
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IEC 60376 (New SF₆ gas, technical grade SF₆ gas)
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IEC 60480 (Used SF₆ gas)
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CIGRE report 276, 2005 (Practial SF₆ gas handling instructions)
Leaks during operation:
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IEC 60376 (New SF₆ gas, technical grade SF₆ gas)
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IEC 60480 (Used SF₆ gas)
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CIGRE 2002 (“SF₆ gas in the electrical industry”)
Repair work and maintenance:
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IEC 61634 (Use and handling of SF₆ gas in high-voltage switchgear and controlgear)
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CIGRE 1991 (Handling of SF₆ gas)
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CIGRE report 276, 2005 (Practical SF₆ gas handling instructions)
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CIGRE report 163, 2000 (Guide for SF₆ gas mixtures)
Insulating gas is a colourless and odourless, chemically neutral, inert and
non-inammable gas which is heavier than air, not toxic and not harmful to
the ozone layer. Detailed information is given in IEC 60376 and IEC 61634.