Sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆) is still present in many medium- and high-voltage electrical switchgears installed in recent years. Regulation (EU) 2024/573 on fluorinated gases has introduced severe restrictions on the use of SF₆ in new equipment, but does not require the immediate decommissioning of panels already in operation.
For these systems, maintenance remains permitted, provided it is managed in compliance with emission prevention and gas traceability regulations..
F-gas Regulation and already installed SF₆ switchgear
The European regulatory framework clearly distinguishes between new installations and existing equipment. Switchgear containing SF₆ that has already been installed may continue to operate throughout its entire service life, provided that the obligations set out in the F-gas Regulation are complied with.
In this context, maintenance is not prohibited but regulated: any intervention must be aimed at ensuring the safety of the installation and minimizing gas emissions into the atmosphere.
Which maintenance activities are permitted
For existing installations, interventions necessary to preserve reliability and continuity of service are allowed. These include routine maintenance, corrective maintenance, and restoration activities in the event of faults or anomalies.
Activities involving the gas circuit must be carried out using appropriate procedures, avoiding gas leakage and providing for SF₆ recovery where necessary. The execution method is the key factor in ensuring regulatory compliance.
Control of SF₆ leaks in medium voltage switchboards
Leak prevention is one of the key aspects of managing installations containing SF₆. Depending on the quantity of gas involved and the characteristics of the switchgear, periodic inspections and targeted checks may be required.
From an operational standpoint, maintenance should include checking density or pressure monitoring devices and taking prompt action in the event of abnormal indications. Rapid identification and repair of leaks help reduce environmental impact and ensure the installation remains compliant.
SF₆ Gas Recovery During Maintenance
When maintenance requires opening the gas circuit, SF₆ recovery is mandatory. The gas cannot be released into the atmosphere and must be managed with appropriate equipment.
These operations may only be performed by personnel with the required certifications for the management of fluorinated gases. For system operators, this means relying on qualified operators and ensuring that each intervention is properly documented.
Maintenance records and traceability
Document management is an integral part of regulatory compliance. Records must include information regarding the equipment, the amount of SF₆ contained, the interventions performed, and any gas recovery or replenishment operations.
Complete traceability not only allows compliance with regulatory requirements but also improves the technical management of the electrical panel throughout its life cycle.
Maintenance of SF₆ Switchgear: Operational Guidelines
Maintenance of SF₆ switchgear is therefore still allowed, but it requires a structured approach. Leak reduction, gas recovery when necessary, and proper documentation are essential to ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and uninterrupted operation of existing installations.