Sulfur hexafluoride, SF₆, is used around the world as a dielectric medium for high-voltage circuit breakers, switchgear, and other electrical equipment. Additionally, it is used for the filling of insulated windows and for the casting of magnesium. SF6 is expensive and is also a powerful green house gas (20,000 times more potent than CO₂). SMC membranes allow SF₆ to be retained at high pressure (close to feed pressure) while permeating out the unwanted air.

SMC ’s SF₆ Recovery systems help cut the SF₆ emissions by > 90% with a projected payback time of less than a year (for most applications). The customized SF₆ Recovery Systems® are manufactured in our ISO 9000 Certified facility in Chengdu, China while the membrane is fabricated in our Pittsburg, USA facility. SMC-IGS works directly with the client to provide the most efficient and cost effective solution.

Feed gas is compressed and filtered to remove particles and condensate. A heating step provides an optimum operation temperature for the feed gas to enter the SMC membrane modules. SF₆ gas permeates extremely “slow” through the membrane walls and remains at pressure. The “faster” permeating gases, e.g. N₂, O₂, H₂O, are removed with the permeate.

Technical advantages

• Extensive Experience - Custom designing

• Simple Solution - No moving parts, maintenance

• State of the Art Membrane - High recoveries

• No chemicals - Environmentally friendly

Performance

• Feed gas pressures up to 2,000psi (138bar)

• <5 vol % SF6 in feed

• > 90% recovery of SF₆

• Flow rates: 1~1,500Nm³/h

Applications

• Transformer manufacturing

• Window thermal insulation

• Circuit breakers

• Magnesium casting

• Electrical switch-gear

• Sports Shoes