Sulphur hexafluoride-A complex dielectric

Some of the factors that must be taken into account in designing with SF/sub 6/ are discussed. These factors include the effect of field inhomogeneities on the electrode which reduce the dielectric strength in SF/sub 6/ and the effect of SF/sub 6/ decomposition byproducts on the materials used in SF/sub 6/-insulated systems. Homogeneous and inhomogeneous field breakdown are discussed, and typical causes of failure in SF/sub 6/-insulated systems are examined. Many oversimplifications are used in the discussion, mainly to avoid having to define precisely the circumstances to which the assertions apply. In general, the system under consideration has been designed for a 30-year life, as is typical for a utility apparatus.<>