Sulphur hexafluoride leak detector.

New cost effective, easy to use SF6 (sulphur hexafluoride) leak detector offers selectable sensitivity and automatic zero

ION Science has launched the portable SF6 (sulphur hexafluoride) LEAKMATE leak detector. The cost effective, easy to use instrument offers selectable sensitivity and automatic zero.


With a detection threshold of 1 x 10E-6 mbar I/s, SF6  LEAKMATE is ideally suited for simple leak detection applications on SF6  switchgear, service and maintenance in SF6 switchgear production and mobile leak detection on test equipment for differential pressure, mass flow, etc.

The processor controlled instrument features both an audible alarm and an LED bar graph display, allowing estimation if a small, medium or big leak is being detected.

It automatically compensates all ambient influences like temperature changes or movement of air in the room. Intelligent control sets up the instrument appropriately for the ambient situation.

It then uses the present gas concentration as its zero line and begins to look for even higher gas concentrations, which occur when a leak is approached. This will again be indicated audibly and visually. It is possible to determine leaks even in seriously contaminated areas.

SF6  is widely used in the electrical industry to prevent short circuits and accidents. Leaks of the colourless, odourless and synthetic gas in Britain and the European Unity (EU) in 2017 were the equivalent of putting an extra 1.3 million cars on the road.

It is a hugely effective insulating material for medium and high voltage electrical installations. It prevents electrical accidents and fires and typical applications include large power stations, wind turbines and electrical substations in towns and cities.

Although SF6  is a non-toxic gas, it can displace oxygen in the lungs and cause asphyxia if too much is inhaled. It is approximately five times heavier than air and, if released or leaked in large enough quantity, will accumulate in low lying areas where there is no natural ventilation.

For utility employees, this type of exposure is well within the normal course of duties when working on SF6  filled switchgear in enclosed spaces. Indeed, if a substantial quantity of SF6 gas leaks in an enclosed area, it can pose a real danger of asphyxiation to personnel.

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