Can Load Bank Testing Uncover Hidden Problems In Generator Systems?

Yes, load bank testing can help you identify any hidden problems with the generator in advance. Today's blog post discusses some important aspects of load bank testing such as what it is, how it is done, and how often you should do it to ensure the upkeep of your generator system. This article also covers some of the key safety measures that should be kept in mind when choosing to conduct such a procedure. So, let’s get started…

Generator Load Bank Testing In A Nutshell

Be it for commercial or residential purposes – when we invest in a generator system we expect stable and continuous power supply when the main power supply is down. If the generator unit gives out during a power cut, it fails to serve that purpose. The motive behind performing load bank testing on a generator system is to ensure that there is nothing wrong with the unit and in case of a power cut, it will definitely come to your aid.

Subjecting your generator to load bank testing will provide you with the following information.

#1- The engine’s health. The most important and expensive part of a generator unit is its engine. It is due to this component that the mechanical power required to produce electricity is generated. If there is something wrong with this part, the power generation capacity of the generator will be greatly reduced. Performing a load bank test will give you an overview of the health of your generator engine.

#2- The alternator’s capability. Load bank testing will also let you know how well your generator's alternator is performing. The alternator is the central hub of your generator’s electricity production mechanism. A flaw in a part of such importance can cause the entire generator unit to cease to function. Include load bank testing in your generator maintenance schedule to evaluate your alternator's efficiency.

1. Reveals hidden fuel system issue. A series of components are involved in regulating the fuel supply to the generator engine; collectively known as the fuel system. Due to the complexity involved in this system, it is not always easy to identify any hidden issues in the fuel system in advance. But thanks to load bank testing, you can now tell if something is wrong with your generator's fuel delivery system before a serious incident occurs.
2. Uncovers cooling system issue. How well your generator works has a lot to do with the efficiency of its cooling system. This is due to the fact that the cooling system ensures that the engine temperature remains within the optimum range. If there is something off with the cooling system, it would have an adverse impact on the generator’s engine efficiency. Load bank testing can manifest vulnerabilities within the cooling system.
3. Measuring the generator's output capability. It's not just that load bank testing reveals the generator's weaknesses, it weighs the output capacity of the generator unit. Plus, it is a great way to deal with wet stacking.

Generator Load Bank Testing: Steps to Follow

1. Checking the fluids. As the first step in load bank testing, different types of fluids used in the generator unit are checked. The coolant, motor oil, and yes... fuel level in the tank need to be inspected to determine if these are running dry or have gotten contaminated.
2. Starting the generator. Once testing of all those fluids is complete, the generator engine is fired up. As the engine runs and attains its normal operating temperature, the technician carefully looks for the emergence of any unusual noises.
3. Connecting the load bank. The next step in this process is to link an ancillary load to the generator’s output. The load phases are then adjusted and the response of the generator with respect to this needs to be noted.
4. Delink the load bank. Once the required data is obtained, delink the load bank and allow the generator to run for five to ten minutes before turning it off. Now you've got all the data you need to analyze the health of your generator.

To Keep Things Short…

There is no doubt about it… load bank testing is an effective way to check for problems in a generator. It helps you uncover a lot about your generator system. If it occurs to you that there is something off with your generator system and you are completely unaware of its nature, conducting load bank testing can help you diagnose the issue before it turns into something serious.

Leddy Power is one of the leading electric power generation service provider located in Moorpark, CA. We are proud to provide our clients with comprehensive and reliable power solutions to cater to their needs.