As all gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) installations eventually reach the end of their service life, utilities are left with a critical question: what support can they realistically expect from manufacturers, and what are the options for extending the operational life of these systems?
Problems with GIS typically begin after the midpoint of its lifecycle. By then, end users expect continued support from manufacturers, yet this can become increasingly complicated. As GIS is a highly integrated system, assessing its remaining life must go beyond evaluating individual components like circuit breakers or disconnectors – the entire installation must be considered.
Case studies show GIS installations operating reliably for over 40 years, but with evolving ownership and industry consolidation, valuable technical knowledge is often lost. The original manufacturer may no longer be in business, or technical data may be inaccessible. Additionally, both users and manufacturers frequently experience knowledge drain due to outsourcing and retirements.
A major issue is the availability of spare parts. While manufacturers generally supply spare components for at least 10 to 15 years after production ends, obtaining parts later can be expensive and time-consuming. Some users pre-purchase spare parts, others rely on shared inventory pools, or salvage parts from decommissioned systems.
Maintenance policies, spare parts strategies, and technical know-how all play a role in determining the future of ageing GIS equipment. Whether through refurbishment, enhanced maintenance, or complete replacement, a proactive approach is key. Without it, critical infrastructure risks early obsolescence, not due to technical limits, but due to a lack of preparedness.
Soure: EEP
