SF₆

What is SF₆?

Sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆) is a synthetic gas that has been used in circuit breakers and switchgear in power systems since the 1960s. It has unique technical properties: excellent insulation capability, the ability to extinguish electric arcs, and high chemical stability.  

At the same time, SF₆ is the most potent greenhouse gas that we know of, with a global warming potential (GWP) 24,300 times that of CO₂. Even small leaks result in significant emissions and SF₆ accounts for a large share of grid operators’ direct greenhouse gas emissions. 

What can we do in this field?

SINTEF Energy Research is Norway’s leading research environment on SF₆ and SF₆ alternatives. We combine fundamental research, laboratory testing and system analyses to reduce emissions and develop new technologies that can replace SF₆ in power grids. 

We work in these areas:

• Monitoring and reporting SF₆ emissions through the Norwegian Gas Insulated Substation (GIS) User Group
• Root cause analysis following failures in switchgear with and without SF₆
• Development and demonstration of SF₆-free circuit breakers and switchgear for medium voltage
• Applied research on the dielectric properties of SF₆ alternatives, both experimental and theoretical
• System studies of security of supply and climate impact when transitioning to new technologies
• Courses and training in the handling of SF₆

Typical assignments for us:

• Annual reporting of SF₆ inventories and emissions to the Norwegian Environment Agency (Miljødirektoratet)
• Advisory services to industry and authorities on reducing SF₆ emissions
• Development and testing of prototypes in projects such as FreeSwitch and MISSION EU
• Research projects mapping the properties of SF₆ alternatives, such as MISSION EU, New Gases for GIS, and NEMEGIS
• Lectures and knowledge sharing on regulations and technological alternatives

Methods we use:

• Laboratory testing of new insulation gases
• Laboratory testing of load-break switch prototypes using environmentally friendly gas mixtures for medium voltage
• Modelling of emission scenarios and technological needs towards 2050
• Collaboration with NTNU, Norwegian and international switchgear manufacturers and grid companies, as well as European universities

Why choose SINTEF:

• Unique position as national coordinator for SF₆ reporting
• World-leading research on SF₆ alternatives and long-term reliability
• Modern laboratories and close collaboration with industry ensure technically robust and regulatorily relevant solutions
• More than 20 years of experience in developing switchgear technology together with Norwegian and international industry

We do this for:

• Norwegian and international grid operators
• Power producers and industrial companies working with SF₆ and alternatives
• Authorities and public agencies requiring a reliable knowledge base
• European research and industry partners

Relevant links:

• Norwegian Gas Insulated Substation (GIS) User Group
• The EU project MISSION
• FreeSwitch – SF₆- and PFAS-free MV switchgear
• New gases for GIS
• NEMEGIS