SF₆ Monitoring with PCM10: Smart Pressure Sensor for Density Control in GIS Systems

As the demand for compact, highefficiency electrical infrastructure grows, gasinsulated switchgear (GIS) has become essential in modern power transmission systems. These units rely on sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆) gas for its exceptional insulating and arcquenching properties. However, due to SF₆’s environmental impact and the critical role it plays in system safety, accurate and consistent gas density monitoring is paramount.

To meet the evolving needs of the industry, WTsensor presents the PCM10 Intelligent Pressure Sensor—a digitally enhanced, lowpressure sensor specifically engineered for precision applications like SF₆ density monitoring. Its compact design, intelligent output options, and exceptional stability make it an ideal component for integration into density controller systems within GIS equipment.

 Why SF₆ Density Monitoring Is Essential

SF₆ gas is chemically stable and nontoxic, making it a preferred insulating medium in GIS systems. However, the gas is also a potent greenhouse contributor. Any unnoticed leak not only threatens equipment reliability but also poses a significant environmental concern.

Density controllers measure SF₆ pressure and temperature to calculate gas density. This allows for immediate detection of leaks and triggers alarms or shutdown protocols to ensure continued safe operation. Integrating a highperformance pressure sensor like the PCM10 is vital to ensuring these density controllers perform with high accuracy and reliability.

 Introducing the PCM10 Intelligent Pressure Sensor

The PCM10 is a newly developed, highperformance intelligent sensor built on WTsensor’s proven silicon piezoresistive pressure sensing platform. It combines a rugged mechanical structure with a dedicated digital integrated circuit (ASIC) for realtime temperature compensation and digital calibration, delivering reliable pressure readings under challenging conditions.

 Core Features:

 Dual Output Support: Analog output (0.5–4.5V ratiometric) and digital output via I²C interface.

 Digital Temperature Compensation: Ensures accurate readings in fluctuating temperature environments.

 Integrated ASIC: Calibrated at the factory for improved precision and longterm stability.

 Low Power Design: Ideal for batterypowered or embedded systems.

 AllMetal Body: Made from 316L stainless steel with Oring sealing for industrial protection.

 High Sensitivity and Stability: Supports lowpressure ranges as well as sealed gauge and absolute types.

 Perfect for SF₆ Density Controller Applications

The SF₆ environment demands a sensor that can operate reliably at low pressures, provide temperaturecompensated output, and withstand longterm exposure to inert gases. The PCM10 sensor addresses all these requirements and more.

 1. Accurate LowPressure Measurement

The PCM10 is available in pressure ranges starting from 0–35kPa, making it especially suited for lowpressure SF₆ environments. It also supports measurements up to 6MPa, covering broader GIS applications.

 2. RealTime Digital Communication

With support for the I²C protocol, the PCM10 communicates directly with microcontrollers and digital processing units, allowing for:

 Realtime pressure and temperature data transmission

 Systemlevel integration for advanced analytics

 Remote diagnostics and softwarebased configuration

 3. Fast Leak Detection Response

The sensor's ≤50ms response time enables rapid detection of any abnormal pressure drop. This allows early leak identification, preventing costly downtime or equipment failure.

 4. Rugged and Compact

Its stainless steel 316L construction resists corrosion and withstands longterm exposure to SF₆. The integrated, compact design simplifies installation in tight GIS compartments.

 Benefits of PCM10 in SF₆ Gas Monitoring Systems

 Superior Accuracy and LongTerm Stability

The integrated ASIC and digital compensation ensure that the PCM10 remains accurate and driftfree over long operating cycles—ideal for the maintenancefree expectations of GIS systems.

 EcoFriendly Performance

By enabling early SF₆ leak detection, the PCM10 helps utilities stay compliant with international environmental standards like IEC 60376, IEC 62271, and ISO 14064.

 Flexible Integration

Supporting both analog and digital outputs, the PCM10 easily integrates into existing or new monitoring architectures. It works with PLCs, IoTenabled devices, and embedded systems.

 Versatility Beyond GIS

While designed with SF₆ density control in mind, PCM10 is also highly effective in:

l  Hydraulic and fluid control systems

l  Medical instrumentation

l  Seal integrity testing

l  Industrial automation and process monitoring

l  Diving and underwater depth detection

The PCM10 Intelligent Pressure Sensor represents a leap forward in SF₆ density monitoring for gasinsulated switchgear systems. With its combination of compact design, precise performance, intelligent output options, and energy efficiency, it meets the evolving demands of modern power infrastructure.

By embedding the PCM10 into your density controller solution, you gain a competitive edge—delivering safer operations, longer equipment life, and better environmental responsibility.