Sulfur Hexafluoride
RARE & SPECIALITY GAS
Sulfur hexafluoride is a colorless, odorless, nontoxic, nonflammable gas used as an insulating gas in electrical equipment. At atmospheric pressure, it sublimes directly from solid to gas and is shipped as a liquefied compressed gas. It’s widely used for leak detection and as a gaseous dielectric in transformers, condensers, and circuit breakers, and it’s also a highly effective etchant in semiconductor production.
Commercial-grade SF₆ is 99.8% pure, and AWA can supply higher-purity options.
Sulfur Hexafluoride Specifications
| Atomic Weight | Molecular Weight | Density |
|---|---|---|
|
146.06 |
146.06 |
0.40 ft3/lb. @ 70F, 14.696 psia |
Environmental Impact and Regulations
Due to its high global warming potential, SF6 is subject to stringent regulations and management practices to minimize its release into the atmosphere. Proper handling and recycling practices are essential to mitigate its environmental impact. As a supplier of SF6, EFC is dedicated to providing high-purity SF6 while adhering to the highest standards and actively contributing to efforts to reduce its ecological footprint.
Sulfur Hexafluoride Gas
Uses & Applications
Electrical Industry
SF6 is widely used in the electrical industry as a gaseous dielectric medium for insulating and arc quenching in switchgear, substations, and gas-insulated power lines. For this application, it is superior to many other substances due to its insulation properties, dielectric strength, and arc quenching abilities. We provide technical-grade SF6 gas that meets IEC 60376 and ASTM D2472-00 standards for this application.
Semiconductor Manufacturing
Sulfur hexafluoride is also used for deep ion plasma etching in the production of semiconductors. SF6 will produce reactive ions and radicals in the plasma, essential for the etching process. We provide high-purity SF6 gas that meets the exacting standards of semiconductor manufacturing.
Metal Protection
SF6 is used as a cover gas to protect molten reactive metals, including magnesium. Here the SF6 protects the hot metals from atmospheric oxygen, preventing oxidation and burning of the metal.
Thermal and Acoustic Insulation
SF6 placed between the panes of a double-pane window will thermally insulate and acoustically insulate, reducing the sound transmitted. This is valuable for homes and businesses in noisy areas or for offices and conference rooms where privacy is desired.