Circuit Breaker Repairs / SF 6 Leak Detection
The exact source of the SF 6 gas leak must be detected in order
for TDS to propose a repair method. For many years, SF 6 leak detection
was done using a soapy water like Snoop, hand held gas detectors,
or ultrasonic devices. These detectors were adequate however extraneous
factors could interfere with their capability. Factors such as
wind, noise, or the thoroughness of the leak detection survey sometimes
render these detectors unreliable.
The new device that has proved very useful for detecting SF 6
leaks is the infrared laser-scanning unit. This detector scans
the entire circuit breaker using a laser and detects the specific
infrared signature of SF 6 gas. The SF 6 leak appears as black
smoke on the video used to record the scan. Figures 1 and 2 (below)
show a technician using one of these devices. Although TDS is not
in this business, usually the utilities will provide copies of
the videotapes for our analysis. Viewing the tapes makes it quite
easy to see the exact component that has failed. With this information,
TDS is able to generate a quotation for the customer.
[ Click images for a larger view ]
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