CageCapture™ ‘Capture’ solution will improve the speed of response to reduce sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) emissions by enabling early capture of SF6 leakage from assets. The project will deliver a leak capture solution that can be applied to switchgear pipework and flanges for the capture of SF6 leaks. Stage 1 will validate the proof of concept in a suitable test environment and Stage 2 will evaluate application of the product to switchgear on the distribution networks.
The project has the potential to deliver up to £11m in financial benefits to GB distribution customers based on early detection of leaked SF6 gas.
The project closed down seven months early due to the inability of the linked detection project to deliver (CageCapture SF6 paint detection project looked to develop a paint that would indicate SF6 leaks in equipment). This hampered the ability to employ the capture element. While the capture project demonstrated good absorption rates in the lab, there was no clear route to prototype this in the real world, and the project was closed early.
Energy Innovation Centre
University of Liverpool
£439,611
September 2022 – February 2024
Fraser Macintyre
