processes

Article
Environment-Friendly and Efficient Gaseous
Insulator as a Potential Alternative to SF6
Hafiz Shafqat Kharal 1, * , Muhammad Kamran 1 , Rahmat Ullah 2 ,
Muhammad Zaheer Saleem 2, * and Muhammad Junaid Alvi 1
1 Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore 54890, Pakistan;
[email protected] (M.K.); [email protected] (M.J.A.)
2 Faculty of Electrical Engineering, GIK Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology, Topi 23640,
Pakistan; [email protected]
* Correspondence: [email protected] (H.S.K.); [email protected] (M.Z.S.)

Received: 29 August 2019; Accepted: 8 October 2019; Published: 14 October 2019

Abstract: Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6 ) is commonly used in electrical insulation networks due to its
superior dielectric properties. However, it possesses a high Global Warming Potential (GWP) of
22,800 times compared to CO2 (at equal mass over a time span of 100 years) and a high atmospheric
lifetime. This alarming metric prompted investigation for substitute gases with minor environmental
influences. The overall objective of this research is to evaluate refrigerant R152a as a potential
alternative for SF6 in electrical insulation systems. R152a gas has a significantly reduced value of
GWP (140) and is a cheap insulation medium as compared to SF6 . In this paper, dielectric breakdown
testing of R152a and a mixture of CO2 with different concentrations have been tested. The dielectric
strength of R152a/CO2 gas shows a saturated growth trend with increasing the gap difference, gas
pressure and mixing ratio of R152a. Based on our experimental conditions, R152a/CO2 gas reveals
good dielectric properties, and insulation performance can reach up to 96% of SF6 . Finally, this work
will bring a cost-effective and environment-friendly gaseous insulator for utility companies and
power equipment manufacturers.

Keywords: R152a/CO2 ; global warming potential; breakdown characteristics; environment-friendly;

insulating material; power frequency

1. Introduction
Increasing demand for efficient electrical energy use has become a challenge, especially for
developing countries with their increased energy usage and poor planning for supply and maintenance.
This unplanned and unpredicted exponential rise in energy demand has increased the requirement
for deployment of better power protection systems that may withstand undue and unwanted system
failures. Therefore, protection equipment should be installed with the best and efficient insulation
medium to overcome quick faulty circuit isolation. The most widely used gaseous insulator is sulfur
hexafluoride (SF6 ) with superior arc quenching and insulation abilities [1]. SF6 is a widely used gas and
a very prevalent choice in insulation medium for high voltage (HV) apparatus, gas-insulated power
lines, compact circuit breaker. It is also non-flammable as compared to the insulating mineral oils
particularly for the indoor environments. However, possessing the aforesaid features and properties
SF6 has been regrettably found to be a damaging greenhouse gas stated by the Kyoto Protocol that it is
22,800 times more harmful than CO2 for the same masses of both the gases over a time span of 100
years [2,3]. Therefore, SF6 is included in the prohibited list for ecological safety. SF6 decay products, as
well as the moisture inside the apparatus, can cause damages to materials like alumina. Therefore,
molecular filters were used for harmless exclusion and absorption purposes [4]. Earlier investigations

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were carried out to expand CF3 I/N2 [5–9], C5 F10 O [10,11], C6 F12 O [12], C3 F7 CN [13] and C4 F7 N [14] as
an alternate of SF6 , but these candidates have some disadvantages described in Table 1. Gases cannot
be maintained in a closed vessel, according to IEC 62271-1 standard there will be a 0.1% leakage from a
closed vessel [15]. A worldwide 25-year accumulative data is calculated based on a 0.1% leakage ratio
as shown in Table 2 [16,17].

Table 1. Association of SF6 replacement.

Gases Problems and Drawbacks

Momentous expansion in pressure.
Carbon dioxide, Nitrogen and Dry air Momentous expansion in size of equipment.
Low breakdown voltage [18].
Boiling point large than that of CF3 I (−22.5 ◦ C) at 0.1 MPa.
Trifluoro iodomethane mixtures (CF3I/CO2 or
Classified as a perilous, mutagenic, and venomous for
N2 )
facsimile (Type-3) [19].
Superior smallest operating temperature than SF6 [20]. Far
Mixtures of per-fluorinated ketones (C5 F10 O,
above the ground boiling temperature (24 ◦ C) at (0.1 MPa)
C6 F12 O/Technical air or CO2 )
because of higher molecular mass.
Carbon grime dump on electrodes owing to high spark
HFO 1234ze voltage. Superior operating temperature than SF6 while
unpolluted (constrained at −15 ◦ C).
C4 F7 N/CO2 Having high boiling point (−4.7 ◦ C at 0.1 MPa) [14]

Table 2. Worldwide usage and leakage of SF6 from all GIS.

Annually Leakage Cumulative 25

Worldwide SF6 Expected Mass of Total SF6 Used in
of SF6 from all Years Leakage of
Insulated GIS Each Component All GIS
GIS SF6 from All GIS
20,000 500 kg 10,000,000 kg 9881 Kg 392,944 Kg

Such critical matters have pointed the emphasis to improve the fidelity and adeptness of power
transmission and distribution systems around the world while ensuring that the upcoming modern
innovations and latest technologies are not hazardous to the environment.
It is very important to reflect on the environment when designing electric power systems.
Such investigation helps to formulate the development of an insulating medium that is environmentally
and economically attractive. R152a is a new type of insulating and environmental-friendly gas that
has been acknowledged by scholars from all over the world in the past three years. Moreover, a
better understanding of the characteristics of R152a and their breakdown mechanisms is developed.
The comparative analysis of different SF6 alternatives has been shown in Table 3. Here in Table 3
dielectric strength of all alternatives was normalized to SF6 at 1 bar.
R152a is recognized as a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC), which is commonly used in refrigeration
appliances and in aerosol sprays with properties in compliance with the Montreal Protocol [21]. R152a
possesses some pertinent qualities making it an effective gas to be employed in the field; for example,
it is harmless and non-explosive. All these features make it a suitable candidate for domestic and
industrial usage as an electric insulator. R152a gas has a significantly reduced value of GWP (140)
and is a cheap insulation medium compared to SF6 . Moreover, R152a has zero ozone depletion
potential. As the atmospheric lifetime of R152a is 1.4 years so its decomposition products have 98% low
environmental impact as compared to SF6 . Therefore, using the proposed gas mixture can effectively
reduce the greenhouse effect. Table 4 shows a contrast between the physical and chemical properties of
R152a and SF6 .
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Table 3. Different alternative of SF6 gas. The global warming potential represents the values over a
time span of 100 years for equal masses of these gases.

Dielectric Global
Atmosphere Boiling
Reference Gas Strength Warming Cost/kg
Lifetime Point
(DS) Potential
[11] SF6 1 22,800 3200 −63 ◦ C 25–30 $
[22] N2 0.40 0 −195.8 ◦ C 0.25 times of SF6
[23] CO2 0.37 1 −78.5 ◦ C 0.35 times of SF6
[23] C2 F6 0.80 12,200 10,000 −78.1 ◦ C 2.5 times of SF6
[23] C3 F8 0.90 8830 2600 −36.7 ◦ C 2 times of SF6
[23] CF3 I 1.21 5 0.05 −22.5 ◦ C 10 times of SF6
[23] C4 F10 1.2–1.3 8700 3200 −5.99 ◦ C 9 times of SF6

Table 4. Contrast between physical and chemical properties of SF6 versus R152a [20]. The global
warming potential represents the values over a time span of 100 years for equal masses of these
gases [24–26].

Properties SF6 R152a

GWP 22,800 140
Density 6.17 kg/m3 2.7 kg/cm3
Molecular mass 146.06 g/mol 66.1 g/mol
Atmospheric life 3200 1.5
Boiling point −64 ◦ C −25 ◦ C
Appearance Colorless Colorless
Electronegativity 2.5 2.42
Price/kg $28 to $30 $12

Presently, achievements have been made in the dielectric properties of the R152a/CO2 gas mixture.
An experimental study on the liquefaction temperature reduction and power frequency breakdown
characteristics of R152a/CO2 (different mixtures under different pressure and varying gap distance)
was performed. Further, the experimental setup, testing methods, procedures and GWP of R152a/CO2
mixture are elaborated in this paper.

2. Laboratory Test Setup and Assembly of Test Electrodes

This section describes the experimental test setup in the high voltage laboratory, techniques
applied and assembly of test electrodes. Figure 1 shows the schematic for performing the breakdown
voltage testing according to the IEC60270 standard [27]. The test setup consists of a control desk
(HV-9103) comprising a peak voltmeter (HV 9150) and built-in variable voltage supply. The power
supply output is 0 to 230 volts and the voltmeter peak range is 100 to 1000 (kV). The control desk
consists of measuring instruments, namely Impulse, Peak, Trigger devices and DC Voltmeters. For DC
breakdown testing, through rectification 140 kV DC was generated.
As the breakdown occurs, the voltmeter measures the breakdown voltage across the measuring
capacitor. Prior to starting the experimental breakdown voltage tests, AC Voltage of identified value
was applied to a voltmeter and measuring devices for calibration purposes to minimize errors and
improve precision. All experimental results were obtained at room temperature (20–25 ◦ C). The
pressure vessel’s temperature rise has been avoided by the interval of 5 min between two consecutive
breakdowns as recommended in [14].
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Sphere electrode
Testing Transformer

Resistor Connecting Rod

Gas cylinder

Measuring
capacitor

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Sphere electrode
Testing Transformer

Control Desk
Resistor Connecting Rod

Figure 1. Schematic
1. Schematic to to examineR152a/CO
examine R152a/CO2 breakdown voltage by sphere–sphere
Gas cylinder electrodes.
Figure 2 breakdown voltage by sphere–sphere electrodes.

Testing vessel for vacuum and gas is made of steel and equipped with a pressure gauge to measure
pressure up to 6 bars. The manufacturing material of the electrode was aluminum enclosed with a
Measuring
capacitor
nickel coating. The diameter of the electrodes is basically 50 mm. Electrode diameter was selected
to be 50 mm because the gap length should be equal or less than the radius of electrode to maintain
uniform electric field. In our experimental work the gap length is varied from 0–16 mm, therefore 50
mm is best appropriate diameter of electrodes. Figure 2a,b show experimental setup and testing vessel
(HV-9134) respectively. The vessel contains a cylinder made of Plexi-glass that is sandwiched with
flanges top and bottom which are linked with high voltage (HV) and ground potential correspondingly.
Control Desk
The bottom cover is furnished with essential apparatus, such as inlet, outlet valve measuring gauge for
vacuum and pressure. The specifications of the test vessel provided by the manufacturers are briefly
Figure 1. Schematic to examine R152a/CO2 breakdown voltage by sphere–sphere electrodes.
described in Table 5.

(a) (b)

Figure 2. Test equipment used: (a) experimental setup; (b) testing vessel (HV-9134);

Testing vessel for vacuum and gas is made of steel and equipped with a pressure gauge to
measure pressure up to 6 bars. The manufacturing material of the electrode was aluminum enclosed
with a nickel coating. The diameter of the electrodes is basically 50 mm. Electrode diameter was
selected to be 50 mm because the gap length should be equal or less than the radius of electrode to
maintain uniform electric field. In our experimental work the gap length is varied from 0–16 mm,
therefore 50 mm is best appropriate diameter of electrodes. Figures 2a and 2b show experimental
setup and testing vessel (HV-9134) respectively. The vessel contains a cylinder made of Plexi-glass
that is sandwiched with flanges top and bottom which are linked with high voltage (HV) and ground
(a) (b)

Figure 2. Test equipment used: (a) experimental setup; (b) testing vessel (HV-9134).

Figure 2. Test equipment used: (a) experimental setup; (b) testing vessel (HV-9134);

Testing vessel for vacuum and gas is made of steel and equipped with a pressure gauge to
measure pressure up to 6 bars. The manufacturing material of the electrode was aluminum enclosed
with a nickel coating. The diameter of the electrodes is basically 50 mm. Electrode diameter was
selected to be 50 mm because the gap length should be equal or less than the radius of electrode to
maintain uniform electric field. In our experimental work the gap length is varied from 0–16 mm,
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Table 5. Test setup specification.

Specifications Standards
Voltage (AC) 100 kilovolts
Pressure (p) 0 to 6 bars
Diameter of sphere electrodes 50 mm
Vertical height 800 mm

3. Power Frequency Breakdown Voltage Experiments

3.1. Experimental Procedure

Prior to start testing, both electrodes were cleaned with alcohol dumped silk textile cloth to
eliminate moisture and impurities to minimize errors and maximize accuracy in all observations. Tests
were carried in dried and moisture-free zone at room temperature. An increase in temperature raises
the probability of errors in experimental results. To overcome this problem, time span for each test was
restricted to 15–20 min. As R152a and CO2 both are inert and in gaseous form, the time equal to 30–45
min is enough to mix properly for both gases [20].

3.2. Gas Mixture Procedure

Considering the proposed alternate gas mixture liquefaction temperature experimental constraints
and different mixture ratios for power frequency breakdown voltages were mentioned in Tables 6
and 7.

Table 6. Experimental constraints.

Configuration of Electrodes Sphere–Sphere

Length of spark gap 6 mm–18 mm
AC voltage 0–100 kV (AC)
DC voltage 0–140 kV (DC)
Material of electrode Aluminum Ni plated steel

Table 7. Different mixture ratio of R152a and CO2.

Measurement No. R152a Ratio (%) CO2 Ratio (%)

1 90 10
2 80 20
3 70 30
4 60 40
5 50 50

3.3. Calculation of Accurate Gas Mixture Pressure

In order to fill up the accurate amount of R152a and CO2 to achieve the accurate ratio of the gas
mixture by P/P, the calculation of the amount of gas required is essential. A notable thing here is the
P/P ratios of the mixtures of gases because using the W/W ratio would render the calculations incorrect
as the molar mass of molecules can change the pressure of the gas mixture heavily. The total amount of
R152a and CO2 needed is calculated using the ideal gas law as shown in Equation (1) [25].

mRT
V= (1)
MW × P
where:
m = Mass of gas (grams), T = Temperature (Kelvin), P = Pressure (bar);
MW = Molecular weight of gas (g/mol), R = Ideal gas constant, V = Volume (liters).
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For example, in R152a operation, the filling temperature was 20 ◦ C.

The ideal gas constant (R) is
m = Mass of gas (grams), T = Temperature (Kelvin), P = Pressure (bar);
0.0821, the MW of R152a is 66.01 g/mol and MW of CO2 = 44.01 g/mol. Therefore, when the chamber is
MW = Molecular weight of gas (g/mol), R = Ideal gas constant, V = Volume (liters).
filled with mixture the volume of each gas can be calculated as follows [28]:
For example, in R152a operation, the filling temperature was 20 °C. The ideal gas constant (R) is
0.0821, the MW of R152a is 66.01mRTg/mol and MW of CO2 = 44.01 g/mol. Therefore, when the chamber
V= = 1300 × 0.0821 × 293/146 × 1.4 = 153 L
is filled with mixture the volume
MW × ofPeach gas can be calculated as follows [28]:

= 𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚
In order to fill 80%𝑉𝑉R152a 𝑃𝑃 = 1300×0.0821×293/146×1.4
�𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀 ×amount
required of this gas = 153 L

In order to fill 80% R152a

MWrequired
×P amount of this gas
m= = (66 × 0.98 × 153)/(0.0821 × 293) = 412 g
𝑚𝑚 = 𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀 × 𝑃𝑃�𝑅𝑅𝑅𝑅 = (66×0.98×153)/(0.0821×293) = 412 g
RT
Similarly, for 20% amount of CO2
Similarly, for 20% amount of CO2
MW × P
m𝑚𝑚== 𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀 × 𝑃𝑃= (44=×(44×0.42×153)/(0.0821×293)
�𝑅𝑅𝑅𝑅 0.42 × 153)/(0.0821 × 293)==117
117
gg
RT
Therefore,
Therefore, the
the amount
amount required
required to
to fill
fill 80%/20% mixture ratio
80%/20% mixture ratio of R152a/CO22 is
of R152a/CO is 412:117
412:117 g.
g.

3.4. Mixture
3.4. MixtureRatio
RatioAnalysis
Analysis
Experimentswere
Experiments were performed
performed to to locate
locate Alternating
Alternating Current
Current (AC)
(AC) power
power frequency
frequency breakdown
breakdown
characteristics on 8 mm electrode distance under these environments (a) pure
characteristics on 8 mm electrode distance under these environments (a) pure R152a, (b) pure R152a, (b) pure COCO22, ,
(c) CO
(c) CO22(50%)
(50%)with
with addition
addition of of R152a
R152a (50%),
(50%), (d) (d)
CO2CO 2 (40%)
(40%) withwith addition
addition of R152a
of R152a (60%),(60%),
(e) CO(e) CO
2 (30%)2
(30%) with addition of R152a (70%), (f) CO (20%) with addition of R152a (80%) and
with addition of R152a (70%), (f) CO2 (20%)2 with addition of R152a (80%) and (g) R152a (10%) with (g) R152a (10%)
with addition
addition of R152a
of R152a (90%).
(90%). Figure
Figure 3 shows
3 shows the the breakdown
breakdown strength
strength of of R152aand
R152a andCO2
CO2among
amongtheir
their
mixture at different R152a/CO
mixture at different R152a/CO2 ratios.
2 ratios.

Figure
Figure 3.
3. AC
AC power
power frequency
frequency breakdown
breakdown voltage
voltage of
of R152a/CO
R152a/CO22gas
gasat
atvarying
varyingmixture
mixtureratio
ratio and
and 88
mm
mm electrode
electrode gap
gap distance.
distance.

R152a is an
R152a is anelectronegative
electronegativegas,
gas, and
and all all negative
negative ionsions are created
are created by gaining
by gaining electrons
electrons from
from neutral
neutral molecules R152a, which as a result become positive ions after losing electrons. Gaining and
molecules R152a, which as a result become positive ions after losing electrons. Gaining and losing of
losing of the electrons
the electrons could
could occur occur depending
depending onapplied
on the field the fieldand
applied and attachment
attachment and detachment
and detachment capability
capability of the insulating medium. Losing electrons or detachment coefficients is symbolized
of the insulating medium. Losing electrons or detachment coefficients is symbolized by η by η
as shown
as shown in Equation (2). When a single electron travels per unit length, several electrons produced
in that specified path are defined by Townsend first ionization coefficient, α.
dN = N (α − η) dx (2)
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in Equation (2). When a single electron travels per unit length, several electrons produced in that
specified path are defined by Townsend first ionization coefficient, α.

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13

where
where N
N refers
refers to
to initial
initial electron
electron quantity,
quantity,dN
dNdenotes
denotesthe
theno
noof
ofelectron
electrontraveled
traveledaadistance
distancedx.
dx.
3.5. Dielectric Strength Analysis
3.5. Dielectric Strength Analysis
The breakdown strength of R152a and CO different mixtures was measured in uniform field
The breakdown strength of R152a and CO22 different mixtures was measured in uniform field
under AC voltage. Figure 4 displays the dielectric strength characteristics which can be attained by
under AC voltage. Figure 4 displays the dielectric strength characteristics which can be attained by
ratios of 80% and 20% respectively on 4 bar which gives the highest breakdown strength of 96% of
ratios of 80% and 20% respectively on 4 bar which gives the highest breakdown strength of 96% of
SF gas.
SF66 gas.

Figure 4. Breakdown
Figure 4. characteristiccomparison
Breakdown characteristic comparisonofofR152a/CO
R152a/CO gasatat80%/20%
2 2gas 80%/20% mixture
mixture ratio
ratio and
and SF6SFat6
at 8 mm
8 mm electrode
electrode gapgap distance.
distance.

3.6.
3.6. Gap
Gap Difference
Difference Analysis
Analysis

The
The breakdown
breakdown voltage
voltage ofof R152a/CO
R152a/CO22 gas
gas varied
varied with
with the
the electrode
electrode gap
gap distance
distance (4–16
(4–16 mm).
mm).
This gap between
This gap between both
both electrodes
electrodes has
has dominant
dominant effects
effects on
on the gas dielectric
the gas dielectric strength
strength as shown in
as shown in
Figure 5. In Equation (3) there is an almost linear relationship between the electrode gap and
Figure 5. In Equation (3) there is an almost linear relationship between the electrode gap and breakdown
breakdown voltage
voltage can be can be seen [29].
seen [29].
E = f × (V/D) (3)
E = f × (V/D) (3)
where constant f is demonstrating non-uniformity, V is applied voltage and D is the distance between
where constant f is demonstrating non-uniformity, V is applied voltage and D is the distance between
two electrodes. R152a/CO2 (80%/20%) revealed a similar growth trend as SF6 by changing the gap
two electrodes. R152a/CO2 (80%/20%) revealed a similar growth trend as SF6 by changing the gap
length as shown in Figure 5. After 12 mm, no significant improvement in breakdown voltage was
length as shown in Figure 5. After 12 mm, no significant improvement in breakdown voltage was
found for other mixtures of R152a/CO2 .
found for other mixtures of R152a/CO2.
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Figure5.5. Breakdown
Figure Breakdown voltages
voltages of
of R152a/CO
R152a/CO22 gas
gas varying
varying the
the gap
gap distance
distance (4–16
(4–16 mm)
mm) at
at different
different
mixture ratio.
mixture ratio.

3.7. Statistical
3.7. Statistical Analysis
AnalysisofofR152a
R152a
Table88demonstrates
Table demonstratesthethestatistical
statisticalanalysis
analysisofofR152a
R152aalong
alongwith
withCO
CO22.. These
These are
are premeditatedly
premeditatedly
designed for variable magnitudes of two mixed gases. The experimental values like
designed for variable magnitudes of two mixed gases. The experimental values like standard
standard
deviation(SD),
deviation (SD),coefficient
coefficientofof variation
variation andand mean
mean deviation
deviation are are
alsoalso depicted
depicted in mentioned
in mentioned TableTable
8 that8
that demonstrates
demonstrates the inconsistency
the inconsistency of results
of results achieved
achieved through
through the experiment.
the experiment. The
The SD of SD of R152a
R152a and COand
2
CO2 (70%/30%) shows a rapid variation in value. Correspondingly, coefficient of variation is observed
(70%/30%) shows a rapid variation in value. Correspondingly, coefficient of variation is observed at the
at the value
lowest lowestatvalue at (90%/10%)
(90%/10%) mixing
mixing ratio andratio and the
the mean mean deviation
deviation was foundwas found
lowest valuelowest value at
at (60%/40%)
(60%/40%)
in Table 8. in Table 8.

Table 8. Statistical analysis of R152a.

Table 8. Statistical analysis of R152a.

Base
Base Gas R152aMixed
Gas R152a MixedGasGasCOCO
2 2

RBG 1
RBG50%1 50% 60% 60% 70% 70% 80% 90% 80% 90%
SD SD
11.2 11.2 12.3 10.21 14.2 12.9
12.3 10.21 14.2 12.9
M 46.1 51.6 59.7 57.3 55.3
Μ 46.1 51.6 59.7 57.3 55.3
cv 0.23 6 0.27 0.28 0.19
Max kV cv60 0.23 69.86 0.2773 0.28 0.19 76.1 71.6
Min kV Max26kV 60 469.8 7349.8 76.1 71.6 43 35.6
Min
1 RBG: Ratio of base gas;kV 26 deviation;
SD: standard 4 49.8
M: mean;43 35.6 of variation.
cv: coefficient
1 RBG: Ratio of base gas; SD: standard deviation; M: mean; cv: coefficient of variation.
4. HVDC Analysis
4. HVDC Analysis
Figure 6 shows the breakdown voltage of R152a/CO2 under HVDC. HVDC in the range of 0–140 kV
Figure 6 shows
was generated by the the breakdown
Greincher voltage
voltage of R152a/CO
doubler 2 under
circuit. The HVDC. HVDC
best breakdown in the
strength range
in case ofof 0–140
HVDC
kV was generated by the Greincher
was achieved for R152a/CO2 (80%/20%). voltage doubler circuit. The best breakdown strength in case of
HVDC was achieved for R152a/CO2 (80%/20%).
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Figure 6. DC breakdown voltage characteristics of R152a/CO2 with different mixture ratios and 8 mm
Figure 6. DC breakdown voltage characteristics of R152a/CO2 with different mixture ratios and 8 mm
gap distance.
gap distance.
5. Global Warming Potential (GWP) Analysis
5. Global Warming Potential (GWP) Analysis
This novel alternative R152a/CO2 gas mixture has been particularly developed to significantly
This reduce
novelGWP as compared
alternative to SF6. According
R152a/CO to environmental
2 gas mixture has been protection view, the
particularly GWP is calculated
developed to significantly
reduce GWP as compared to SF6 . According to environmental protection view,fractions
as a weighted average of this proposed gas mixture, and from the sum of the weight the GWPof each
is calculated
substance and multiplied with their individual GWP as given in Equation (4) where k shows the base
as a weighted average of this proposed gas mixture, and from the sum of
gas mixing ratio, 140 is the GWP of R52a and 44 and 56 is the molar mass of R152a and CO2
the weight fractions of
each substance and[14].
respectively multiplied with their individual GWP as given in Equation (4) where k shows
the base gas mixing ratio, 140 is the GWP of
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R52a and 44 and 56 is the molar mass of R152a
𝑘𝑘×56×140+(1−𝑘𝑘)×44×1 10 of 13
and CO2
respectively [14]. GWP = (4)
𝑘𝑘×56+(1−𝑘𝑘)×44
additive gas, the overall liquefaction temperature was reduced. The characteristic curve was achieved
The relationship between the GWP value and mixing ratio is shown in Figure 7. It is found that
by assuming ideal additive gases. k × 56 × 140 + (1 − k) × 44 × 1
R152a/CO2 mixture contents with =
GWP ratio 80%/20% at −14.16 °C has a total GWP of 117.17 instead of (4)
22,800 of SF6 over a 100-year time span, effectively +1−(1𝑇𝑇𝑏𝑏− kthe
k × 56 reducing ) ×greenhouse
44 effects by 98%.
P = exp[A� 𝑇𝑇 �] (5)
𝑅𝑅
The relationship between the GWP value and mixing ratio is shown in Figure 7. It is found that
6. R152a/CO2 Liquefaction Temperature Analysis
R152a/COwhere P represents the gas boiling point pressure; T is the liquefaction
◦ temperature of R152a in
2 mixture contents with ratio 80%/20% at −14.16 C has a total GWP of 117.17 instead of
In the
mixture practical
with CO2; Tbengineering application
is the liquefaction of new alternate
temperature gas, the most
(K) at atmospheric important
pressure; R = 2parameter is
cal/deg.mol
22,800 of SF6 over a 100-year time span, effectively reducing the greenhouse effects by 98%.
liquefaction temperature
is the gas constant and A limitation. R152aisliquefaction
= 21 cal/deg.mol constant. temperature is −25 °C, while that of SF6 is −64
°C. The relationship of vapor pressure with condensation temperature is shown in Figure 8 for R152a
and SF6 revealed lower value of condensation temperature for R152a. Thus, it becomes necessary to
mix R152a with air, CO2, N2 or buffer gases to meet the requirement of low liquefaction temperature.
CO2 has been preferred over other buffer gases like nitrogen and air due to its superior arc quenching
ability to produce the appropriate mixture for circuit breaker and disconnect switch applications [30].
In this research, R152a was used along with the mixtures of CO2 resulting in reduced depletion of the
ozone layer and acceptable liquefaction temperature.
The formula for calculating the liquefaction temperature or saturated vapor pressure has been
given in Equation (5) [31]. The boiling point (b.p) of R152a is greater than SF6 (−63 °C). Due to this
reason, buffer gas CO2 is added to reduce the disadvantages of high boiling point because CO2
possess very low b.p. Increasing the CO2 content in the mixture of R152a/CO2 reduces overall b.p.
Figure 9 shows mixed gas liquefaction temperature. It was proposed that by increasing the ratio of

FigureFigure 7. Global Warming GWP analysis of R152a/CO2 gas mixture.

7. Global Warming GWP analysis of R152a/CO2 gas mixture.
Processes 2019, 7, 740 10 of 13

6. R152a/CO2 Liquefaction Temperature Analysis

In the practical engineering application of new alternate gas, the most important parameter is
liquefaction temperature limitation. R152a liquefaction temperature is −25 ◦ C, while that of SF6 is −64
◦ C. The relationship of vapor pressure with condensation temperature is shown in Figure 8 for R152a

and SF6 revealed lower value of condensation temperature for R152a. Thus, it becomes necessary to
mix R152a with air, CO2, N2 or buffer gases to meet the requirement of low liquefaction temperature.
CO2 has been preferred over other buffer gases like nitrogen and air due to its superior arc quenching
ability to produce the appropriate mixture for circuit breaker and disconnect switch applications [30].
In this research, R152a was used along with the mixtures of CO2 resulting in reduced depletion of the
ozone layer and acceptable liquefaction temperature.
Figure 7. Global Warming GWP analysis of R152a/CO2 gas mixture.

Figure8.
Figure 8. Saturated
Saturated vapor
vapor pressure
pressure R152a
R152aand
andSF
SF6.6.

The formula for calculating the liquefaction temperature or saturated vapor pressure has been
given in Equation (5) [31]. The boiling point (b.p) of R152a is greater than SF6 (−63 ◦ C). Due to this
reason, buffer gas CO2 is added to reduce the disadvantages of high boiling point because CO2 possess
very low b.p. Increasing the CO2 content in the mixture of R152a/CO2 reduces overall b.p. Figure 9
shows mixed gas liquefaction temperature. It was proposed that by increasing the ratio of additive gas,
the overall liquefaction temperature was reduced. The characteristic curve was achieved by assuming
ideal additive gases.
Tb
 
 1 − T 
P = exp[A ] (5)
R 

where P represents the gas boiling point pressure; T is the liquefaction temperature of R152a in mixture
with CO2 ; Tb is the liquefaction temperature (K) at atmospheric pressure; R = 2 cal/deg.mol is the gas
constant and A = 21 cal/deg.mol is constant.
Processes 2019, 7, 740 11 of 13
Processes 2019, 7, x FOR PEER REVIEW 11 of 13

Figure 9.
Figure 9. Liquefaction
Liquefaction temperature
temperature of
of R152a
R152a at
at different
different pressure and mixture
pressure and mixture ratio.
ratio.

7. Conclusions
7. Conclusions
This
This paper
paper emphasizes
emphasizes on on dielectric
dielectric properties
properties of
of R152a/CO in different
R152a/CO22 in different mixture
mixture ratios
ratios as
as aa
potential
potentialSF
SF66 substitute
substitutefor
forengineering
engineeringapplications
applicationsand provides
and providesguidance for for
guidance future research.
future ThisThis
research. gas
mixture was experimentally investigated and compared with SF under power
gas mixture was experimentally investigated and compared6 with SF6 under power frequencyfrequency breakdown
characteristics, effect of different
breakdown characteristics, mixture
effect of ratio,
different pressure
mixture and
ratio, gap distance.
pressure and gapGWP is also
distance. GWPexamined
is also
which provides promising results. Considering the liquefaction condition, the following
examined which provides promising results. Considering the liquefaction condition, the following conclusions
can be summarized
conclusions through extensive
can be summarized throughlaboratory
extensivetesting:
laboratory testing:
(1) The
(1) insulation strength
The insulation strengthofofgas
gasmixture
mixture R152a/CO
R152a/CO 2 (80%/20%)
2 (80%/20%) cancan reach
reach more more
thanthan 96%
96% of SF6of SF6.
. This
This enabled us to present the optimal ratio achieved by replacing SF6 as the insulation
enabled us to present the optimal ratio achieved by replacing SF 6 as the insulation performance
performance
of R152a/CO2of(80%/20%)
R152a/COis2 (80%/20%) is close to SF6.
close to SF6.
(2) The
(2) The AC
AC breakdown
breakdown voltages
voltages of R152a/CO22 increase
of R152a/CO increase linearly
linearly by increasing the
by increasing the gap
gap length.
length. The
The
proposed gas mixture demonstrates good dielectric properties by increasing the content of
proposed gas mixture demonstrates good dielectric properties by increasing the content of R152a
R152a with comparatively
with comparatively low-temperature
low-temperature applications.
applications.
(3) Furthermore,
(3) these formulated
Furthermore, these formulatedmixtures
mixturesare arecost-effective
cost-effectiveand
andreduce
reducethethe amount
amount of of
GWPGWP98% 98%
as
as compared
compared to to
purepure SF6.
SF6.
R152a/CO22 is
R152a/CO is concluded
concluded toto be
be aa potential
potential proposed
proposed composite
composite replacement
replacement gas
gas for
for electrical
electrical
applications. Therefore, this environment-friendly alternative should be put into practice
applications. Therefore, this environment-friendly alternative should be put into practice to to save
save
energy and improve the performance of the system.
energy and improve the performance of the system.

Author Contributions:
Author Contributions: Conceptualization,
Conceptualization, H.S.K.
H.S.K. and M.K.; methodology,
and M.K.; methodology, M.J.A.
M.J.A. writing—original
writing—original draft
draft
preparation, H.S.K.; writing—review and editing, M.K, M.Z.S. and R.U..
preparation, H.S.K.; writing—review and editing, M.K., M.Z.S. and R.U.

Funding: This
Funding: This research
researchwas
wasfunded
fundedby byHigher
HigherEducation
Education Commission,
Commission, Pakistan, grant
Pakistan, number
grant 50018514
number andand
50018514 the
APC was also funded by HEC, Pakistan.
the APC was also funded by HEC, Pakistan.
Acknowledgments: The authors thank the higher education commission of Pakistan for financial support to this
Acknowledgments:
work’s commencement. TheAauthors thank
statement the higher
of grateful education commission
acknowledgment of Pakistan
goes to our for financial
most respected support
Rasheed (late)tofrom
this
work’s commencement.
COMSATS A statement
Pakistan for his guidance, of grateful
project acknowledgment
work, and laboratorygoes to our most respected Prof. Dr. Rasheed
support.
(late) fromofCOMSATS
Conflicts Pakistan
Interest: The authorsfordeclare
his guidance, project
no conflict work, and laboratory support.
of interest.
Conflict of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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Processes 2019, 7, 740 12 of 13

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