MV switchgear breaking in SF6 : the situation after 20 years in service

For over 20 years, EDF has used medium voltage SF₆ circuit breakers and switches. Here, the authors present an investigation which gives a positive assessment of EDF´s experience after 20 years of using SF₆ breaking at medium voltage. The performances of SF₆ switchgear are maintained throughout its whole service life, estimated at 30 years. This principle of breaking is therefore thoroughly mastered by the French manufacturers and its application gives entire satisfaction. The concept of low-maintenance switchgear is now a reality