SF6 gas is often used in closed switching installations as an insulating gas due to its chemical properties. This gas is heavier than air and when inhaled in large quantities can displace oxygen and cause respiratory problems, the gas is otherwise completely harmless to people. However, it is also a very strong greenhouse gas with a greenhouse effect that is 23,000 times larger than that of CO2. The gas is therefore harmful for the environment and must be removed.

However the danger does not stop with SF6 gas self. More hazardous are the decomposition products of SF6 gas that can precipitate into the equipment as a kind of white, gray or light brown powder. This powder is a very corrosive and reactive acid which can cause serious chemical burns when it comes into contact with the skin and is very harmful to the lungs when inhaled. When this powder comes in contact with water it forms other dangerous gasses, for example H 2 S gas (recognizable by the rotten egg smell). This is a very harmful gas to humans and the environment and is highly flammable.

Orion processes SF6 switches in a responsible manner with care for the environment and its employees and has the necessary permits to detoxify SF6 switches. We also take care of environmental responsible disposal and processing of the released waste. Orion can discharge the materials such as metals and insulators as clean waste.