WIND FARM SF₆ LEAK REPAIR

The leaking SF₆ flanges were repaired by mechanically preparing the flange surfaces with power tools, including bristle blasters and grinders, to create a suitable surface profile. Belzona 1161 and reinforcing tape were then applied around the external flange area, before the nuts and bolts were encapsulated and Belzona 5831 was applied as an additional sealing layer.

The SF₆ gas leaks required urgent sealing to prevent further gas loss and reduce the environmental impact associated with SF₆, which is an extremely potent greenhouse gas. Sealing the leaks helped support safer, more environmentally responsible operation of the wind farm’s electrical infrastructure.

The repair used Belzona 1161 and Belzona 5831. Belzona 1161 was applied with reinforcing tape around the flange area and used to encapsulate the nuts and bolts, while Belzona 5831 was applied over the repair area to provide an additional sealing layer and a neat finished appearance.

Eight flanges were successfully repaired at the Australian wind farm. The repair helped reduce SF₆ gas loss, minimise downtime, protect the environment from further emissions and provide a durable, long-term sealing solution for the leaking flanges.

Yes. In this case study, the leaking flanges were sealed externally using a Belzona repair system rather than being replaced. This helped minimise downtime while providing a long-term leak sealing solution for the wind farm’s SF₆ flanges.