Citizen Cooling Solutions Limited > Load Bank Testing

Load Bank Testing

A generator load bank test involves an examination and assessment of a genset. It verifies that all primary components of the generator set are in proper working condition. The equipment used to conduct a load bank test produces artificial loads on the generator by bringing the engine to an appropriate operating temperature and pressure level. This is especially important for standby and emergency generator sets that do not run very often and/or may not be exposed to carrying heavy loads on a frequent basis. The general rule is – if your generator is not exposed to higher than 30% of its rated kW load then you should be considering a load test.

A load bank test ensures that your generator will run property when it’s needed so that you can fully depend on it during an emergency situation. The key to a proper load bank test is that it tests your generator at its full kilowatt (kW) output rating. Because many generators do not regularly operate at their full kW rating, it’s especially important that you verify your generator can actually produce the highest possible horsepower that may be required – while at the same time maintaining adequate temperature and pressure levels that will allow it to run as long as necessary.

How does a Load Bank Test Work?

When a load bank test is implemented, an artificial load is placed on the generator. The test is timed and gradually increases the kW load in specific increments. Each time the kW load is increased, the test measures and records critical engine parameters, the generator’s ability to handle the boost, and its ability to continue functioning at the highest possible level for a sustained period of time. The equipment needed to complete the test includes a load bank (machine with kW rated sizes and battery like cables).

Wet-Stacking

When a diesel engine powered generator is not used frequently or only run on light loads, it can be prone to experiencing unburned fuel and soot buildup in the exhaust system. This is called ‘wet-stacking.’ When wet-stacking occurs, the genset is likely to perform poorly, to endure damage, can become a fire hazard, and can even lead to complete failure. For more information on this condition check out this detailed article from Plant Engineering. During a load bank test, the generator is allowed to run at full power and full temperature. This will cause any wet-stacking to burn off. Hence, a load bank test actually serves two purposes:

it tests the generator to determine whether it will function properly and efficiently on all levels; and
it eliminates any wet-stacking that may have built up within the generator.

Benefits of Load Bank Testing

There are multiple reasons gensets should undergo a load bank test on an annual basis, including the following:

Verifies the gensets capabilities opposed to just routinely starting it up
Problems discovered early can be significantly less expensive and prevents future major issues
Helps to avoid wet-stacking and cleans out carbon deposits
Verifies the engine cooling systems will perform while under load
Provides assurance that the genset should work properly when you need it most
any wet-stacking that may have built up within the generator.