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Acoustic Cameras for SF6 Leak Detection
Detect SF6 leaks in GIS switchgear, circuit breakers, and gas-insulated transformers using acoustic imaging technology — non-contact, live-line safe, and compliant with IEC 62271 and EU F-Gas Regulation 517/2014.
SF6 (sulfur hexafluoride) is the most potent greenhouse gas known — 23,500× more warming than CO₂ over 100 years. EU Regulation 517/2014 mandates regular leak checks for all SF6-containing equipment. Traditional detection methods require gas sampling, equipment shutdown, and specialist contractors. Acoustic imaging cameras detect SF6 leaks instantly, at distance, without any of these constraints.
When SF6 leaks from pressurized equipment, gas turbulence creates ultrasonic sound waves (20–100 kHz range) at the leak point — inaudible to humans but detectable by acoustic sensors.
The GSW Series acoustic camera uses 136 MEMS microphones arranged in a precision array to capture and beamform the ultrasonic signal from up to 130 meters away.
The acoustic signal is processed into a color-coded heatmap and overlaid on the live camera image, pinpointing the exact leak location with ±1° angular accuracy.
Save images with GPS coordinates, leak severity rating, and equipment ID. Generate F-Gas compliant inspection reports directly from the device or PC software.
Acoustic imaging detects SF6 leaks from up to 130m distance — inspect entire GIS bays from a single safe position
EU Regulation 517/2014 on fluorinated greenhouse gases requires documented leak checks for all SF6-containing equipment above threshold quantities. The GSW Series generates compliant inspection records automatically.
Annual leak checks required for equipment containing ≥6 kg SF6. Quarterly checks for equipment with detected leaks. All checks must be documented by certified personnel.
IEC 62271-1 and related standards specify SF6 gas quality requirements and leak rate limits for high-voltage switchgear. Acoustic imaging provides the non-invasive detection method required.
CIGRE Technical Brochure 234 provides guidelines for SF6 gas handling and leak management in electrical equipment. Acoustic imaging is recommended as a primary detection method.
SF6 is listed as a controlled substance under the Kyoto Protocol. Power utilities face increasing regulatory pressure to demonstrate SF6 leak management programs.
Our application engineers will help you select the right acoustic camera for your GIS equipment type, voltage level, and inspection frequency requirements.
