3. Safety
Danger caused by decomposition products
Insulating gas in electrical systems may contain decomposition products generated by
electric arcs:
EN
Gaseous sulphur fluorides
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Sulphur hexafluorides
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Solid and atomized metal fluorides, metal sulphides, metal oxides
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Hydrogen fluoride
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Sulphur dioxide
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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.
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Observe the following safety instructions in order to avoid danger from insulating gas:
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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3.8 Valid standards and directives
Installation, assembly, commissioning:
DGUV Information 213-013 (SF₆ systems and equipment)
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IEC 62271-4:2013 (High-voltage switchgear and controlgear - Part 4: Handling
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procedures for sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆) and its mixtures)
IEC 60376:2018 (Specification of technical grade sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆) and
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complementary gases to be used in its mixtures for use in electrical equipment)
IEC 60480 (Specifications for the re-use of sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆) and its
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mixtures in electrical equipment)
CIGRE report 276, 2005 (Guide for the preparation of customised "Practical SF₆
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handling instructions")
Leaks during operation:
IEC 60376:2018 (Specification of technical grade sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆) and
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complementary gases to be used in its mixtures for use in electrical equipment)
IEC 60480 (Specifications for the re-use of sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆) and its
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mixtures in electrical equipment)
CIGRE 2002 ("SF₆ gas in the electrical industry")
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10
WIKA operating instructions gas presence detector, model GPD-1000