Measuring Moisture in SF6 gas

Power industry’s moisture measurement requirements in SF6, N2, Air and other gases

The transmission and distribution of electrical power is performed at high voltages. The power companies then reduce the voltage to a lower level for consumption.

The power transformers and circuit breakers that are capable of operating at high voltages are often insulated with SF6 gas, referred to as gas insulated switch gear (GIS) systems.

The amount of moisture in the gas has to be kept to a minimum in order to reduce the risk of arcing and thus equipment failure. Therefore the maintenance and commissioning of GIS systems requires precise measurement of the moisture content of the SF6 gas.

SF6 gas can damage the earth’s environment and should not be released into the atmosphere, it is also expensive and thus it is important to preserve.