Keeping Toxic Gases Bottled Up

Sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆) is a highly effective electrical insulator. This colorless, odorless gas is widely used inside high-voltage equipment and switchgear, such as the transformer shown here, operated by a public utility in the United Kingdom.

As an excellent insulator, SF₆ prevents electrical arcing and sparking within transformers, reducing the risk of malfunctions, fires, or equipment damage. However, it is also an extremely potent greenhouse gas, making leak prevention and early detection essential.

To mitigate this risk, the utility partnered with us to install high-resolution pressure sensors that continuously monitor the slight positive pressure maintained inside each transformer enclosure. This positive pressure helps keep oxygen and moisture out while serving as an early indicator of potential gas leaks.

Because gas pressure fluctuates naturally with temperature, both between day and night and as electrical load varies, we developed a custom software program that converts pressure readings into the actual mass volume of gas inside the transformer. This approach enables precise, real-time leak detection rather than relying on pressure alone.

The pressure sensors shown transmit hourly readings to a central server, where the data is processed and analyzed. Users can define high and low alarm thresholds, and if pressure drops outside expected ranges, alerts are triggered immediately. This allows maintenance teams to respond quickly, shutting down equipment and repairing leaks before safety, environmental, or reliability risks escalate.

The system also offers flexible power options. Both our Beast and Nano transmitters support external power through the same port as the sensor, ensuring uninterrupted operation even when solar charging is limited. The result is a reliable, year-round monitoring solution that protects critical infrastructure while reducing environmental impact.