Gas-insulated transformers can be used in various applications. There are quite good growth prospects worldwide for transformers using SF6 gas due to non-flammability and environmental friendly capability.

Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) is a gas made by men that consists of one sulphur and six fluorine atoms. SF6 gas is highly chemically stable, non-flammable and highly electronegative, with incredible dielectric strength of about 2.5 times higher than air. This is why it is widely used as electrical insulation, arc quenching and cooling medium in electrical switchgear, transformers and substations.

SF6 Gas-insulated transformers minimise the risks of fire and environmental effects. The SF6 gas is non-flammable and non-explosive and much safer than oil-insulating transformers which have a risk of fire hazards, explosions and oil leakage. In case of a gas-insulated transformer, the oil or liquid purification process is not required. By using SF6, the risk of oil leakage is eliminated.

The SF6 gas insulated transformer is used in various applications where non-flammable and non-polluting transformers are needed. These are used in buildings like hotels, hospitals, schools, suburban areas close to residential sites, factories and chemical plants next to lakes and rivers, where oil spills from the conventional transformer can damage the environment. SF6 gas-insulated transformers are also installed where oil leakage is specifically banned. It may include Hydroelectric power plants, water treatment facilities and underground substations.