The GA11 analytic instrument from WIKA supports not only SF6 but also alternative insulating gases such as C4-FN gas mixtures and natural origin gases (NOG for short). Users are thus provided with an analytic instrument that is already designed for the transition to alternative gases and reliably meets future requirements in terms of operation, maintenance and documentation.
The energy transition is changing the operating environment for high- and medium-voltage switchgear. Plant operators are increasingly faced with stricter requirements under the F-Gas regulation. As a result, alternative insulating gas solutions are increasingly coming into focus as a replacement for SF6 and are steadily gaining in importance. However, alternative insulating gases such as C4-FN (perfluoroisobutyronitrile) mixtures as well as N2– or CO2-based gases differ significantly from SF6 in terms of their composition and their chemical and physical properties. Consequently, the demands placed on measuring instruments are also increasing, as the complexity of these gas mixtures grows and the range of possible decomposition products becomes significantly wider. Precise analytics and tailored technologies are crucial to ensuring operational safety and efficiency in modern switchgear.
Technical requirements for the gas analysis of alternative gases
Alternative insulating gases exhibit different behaviour with respect to humidity, temperature and pressure than SF6 gas. The potential formation of hydrates in CO2 and the partial condensation of low-boiling components, for example, make it impossible to use dew point mirrors for humidity measurement. The sensing technology and materials must therefore be adapted to these new challenges. At the same time, it is necessary to compensate for complex thermodynamic effects in order to obtain reliable and precise measuring results. The analytic instrument must ensure this without unnecessarily complicating its operation. The measurement system of the new GA11 is therefore designed to be completely modular and flexible in terms of sensing technology.
GA11: Designed for new gas mixtures
The GA11 also analyses alternative gases such as C4-FN mixtures.
The GA11 is based on a sensor platform that can be expanded to accommodate future gas variants. In addition to the SF6 version, the instrument is also available in a C4-FN and a NOG variant. The latter is designed for measuring gas mixtures based on CO2, O2 and N2 (e.g. synthetic air) as well as for any impurities such as helium or SF6. All versions use the same operating logic, the same automated measurement procedure and the same documentation structure. For users, this means a standardised process, regardless of which gas mixture is being tested. Training requirements, service intervals and data formats remain consistent.
Benefits for operators, service providers and manufacturers
Preparing for alternative gases makes it easier to make long-term investment decisions. Operators can adapt their measurement strategy to changes in the energy infrastructure without having to introduce new equipment every time there is a technological leap. Service providers benefit from reduced training costs and a standardised interface for different gas mixtures. Manufacturers and testing laboratories are provided with reliable measurement procedures for new GIS concepts, which are set to come onto the market in increasing numbers over the next few years.
Conclusion
The GA11 provides a technical basis for the handling of a wide range of insulating gases, from existing SF6 applications to new, less environmentally harmful gas mixtures. The modular sensor platform and the consistently uniform operating structure make the transition easier and assist users in dealing with regulatory and technical uncertainties.
Note
You can find the data sheet, operating instructions and technical documents for the GA11 on its product page. Further information on WIKA measurement technology for power transmission and distribution can be found here. If you have any questions, your contact will gladly help you.
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