How to use load bank?

Load banks are widely used in shipping, energy, electric power, transportation, finance, offshore platforms, communications, wind energy and solar power plants and other fields. But how much do we know about the use of load banks? Here are some brief introductions.

Here is the content:

• What is a load bank?

• Where can load banks be used?

• Precautions

What is a load bank?

A load bank is a device which develops an electrical load, applies the load to an electrical power source and converts or dissipates the resultant power output of the source. A Load Bank is intended to accurately mimic the operational or “real” load which a power source will see in actual application.

However, unlike the “real” load, which is likely to be dispersed, unpredictable and random in value, a Load Bank provides a contained, organized and fully controllable load. Consequently, a Load Bank can be further defined as a self-contained, unitized, systematic device which includes both load elements with control and accessory devices required for operation.

Where the “real” load is served by the power source and uses the energy output of the source for some productive purpose, the Load Bank serves the power source, using its energy output to test, support or protect the power source.

Where can load banks be used?

The load banks are used with engine generators, battery systems, UPS systems, inverters, ground power devices, auxiliary power devices, aircraft generators, wind generators, and hydroelectric generators.

Load banks can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

1. Manufacturing test

① Generator test unit

Manufacturers of backup generators usually use load sets to test and adjust newly assembled units.

After installing the generator in the test unit in the factory, the test engineer uses the load group to apply discrete and selectable electrical loads to the generator and measure the response stability and durability. During this process, test engineers calibrate and adjust generator performance to ensure that it meets expected product specifications and tolerances.

② Engine test unit

Manufacturers of small gas engines also use load groups to test newly manufactured engines under various mechanical loads. This is achieved by connecting the engine to the load box through a device called a dynamometer. Likewise, engine performance is monitored and adjusted if necessary to ensure that the product is operating as expected.

2. Field tests and exercises

The generator installed on site must be tested and run regularly to ensure that it will operate as expected in the event of an actual power failure. The service group uses the load group to impose a load that simulates the load of the facility protected by the generator. Any problems with the generator can then be identified and corrected in a non-critical environment.

Simplex load groups can be used to meet the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) requirements for emergency backup power systems. These requirements involve acceptance testing of emergency and backup power systems and regular field testing and maintenance. The essence of the requirement is that the emergency and backup power systems should be tested under load.

3. Eliminate "wet accumulation"

The load group can be installed in the diesel generator set to apply the required additional load to ensure that the engine completely consumes fuel during the combustion process. If the diesel engine is not running under sufficient load, the unconsumed fuel will accumulate in the engine's exhaust pipe and form an oily coating.

Precautions

When the load bank is submitted for inspection, the temperature should be controlled between 15-25℃. When making a current transformer, do not switch the load bank gear at will to prevent from causing a secondary open circuit. Pay attention to moisture and severe vibration when storing the load bank. Only use dedicated power cords that meet the specifications of the load bank. When the test lead is connected to a live terminal, please connect and disconnect it correctly and strictly. To prevent the risk of fire or electric shock, please pay attention to all ratings and markings of the load bank. Before making connections, please read the instruction manual for further information. Some instructions are as following: only use fuses that meet the specified type and rating; avoid contact with exposed circuits and charged metals; when there is electricity, do not touch the exposed contacts and parts of the load bank to avoid electric shock.

All Mecca Power products will undergo several experiments before leaving the factory, so our field frequency quality is guaranteed. If you are engaged in load bank-related work, you can contact us on the website. Our website is https://www.meccapower.com.cn.