Press Release
9 AM EDT, April 6, 2000

Sulfur hexafloride (SF6) gas is used extensively in utility substations to insulate high-voltage switchgear. Historically there has been extensive leaking of SF6, but this was not considered to be a major problem because of the low-cost of the SF6 gas and the belief that SF6 was environmentally benign. That has now changed. The cost of SF6 has increased dramatically in recent years and the EPA has determined that SF6 destroys the ozone layer. Accordingly, electric utilities are now motivated due to economic and regulatory factors to eliminate the leaking of SF6. It is estimated that utilities spend well in excess of $100 million for replacement SF6 gas each year .

Because high-voltage utility substations are dangerous places, there is a strong need to be able to detect a leak without getting close to the actual source of a leak. Handheld sniffers are limited because substations are often extensive facilities and leaks often appear on top of high towers or insulators. This problem calls for a remote leak detection camera that can survey the entire substation and visually portray the source of the leak.

Block Engineering has developed the I-Spec Imaging Spectrometer to remotely detect SF6 leaks in electric utility substations. Leaks of varying intensities are displayed on a 10 by 14 grid overlaid on a high resolution video picture of the substation (see photo). The I- Spec can first be used at a distance of up to 100 feet from the source of the leak. From this distance a viewing area of 17 by 24 feet can be observed to approximately identify the source of a leak. The I- Spec can then be moved closer to the leak to identify the leak's source within several inches at close range (6 ft.). This allows for rapid location for subsequent probing via sniffer and localized repair/resealing.

The complete picture is updated every second, so even intermittent leaks can be located.

Operation is extremely simple and is reduced to the following steps:

1. Turn on and warm up-or unit may be kept in standby mode all day
2. Automatic Calibration/Reference sequence initiated
3. Collect-displays the picture and active sensing grid to allow aiming the unit with the viewfinder (both remote and optical head mounted viewfinders are provided). Leaks are first located in this mode.
4. Save-records the selected number of frames once a leak has been spotted. Data on a leak free target can also be recorded for documenting switchgear integrity.
4a. Optionally move closer to noted leaks for more precise location
5. Data may be downloaded via modem (included) or diskette transfer

I-Spec is fully ruggedized for field use in exterior industrial environments.

• Totally passive and eyesafe, in contrast to laser based systems
• Works from long to short range
• Uses the identical technology selected by the Military for remote detection of nerve gas
• Easily aimed via TV viewfinder
• Fully field ruggedized for indoor or outdoor industrial environment
• Self contained, transportable cart mounted system (works on hard surfaces or coarse gravel)
• Raw and processed data may be downloaded via standard methods
• Day/night operation

Block Engineering has developed and manufactured Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer systems for over four decades. Block supplies government and commercial customers with lightweight, highly sensitive, highly reliable spectrometers that are field durable. Block manufacturing, engineering and customer support services are located in a modern 20,000 square foot facility in Marlborough, Massachusetts, about 40 minutes from Boston.

For further information, including more technical details, please contact Bob Schildkraut at (508) 480-9643.