The power to test

Jon Lawson

Load bank testing is relied upon by the majority of plant managers to validate the operational performance of uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) and generators. Load bank models can range from small portable loads used for testing petrol generators, to high voltage load banks for large diesel generators and gas turbines.

To help companies considering the use of load banks ensure the reliability of power systems, Cressall Resistors has created a comprehensive guide detailing methods of installing load banks and the right testing procedures to use. The white paper also gives examples of how Cressall Resistors has supplied load banks to companies such as Rolls Royce for use in large development facilities.

The white paper outlines the importance of load bank testing for any industrial plant or organisation that relies on an electrical supply network for operation. The failure of an electrical supply network can have disastrous consequences and the only reliable way to plan for these risks is by having standby or fully redundant power supplies in place.

"It's important to ensure that power generators are tested regularly, or you run the risk of a costly power failure," explained Martin Nicholls, sales director of Cressall Resistors. "It is not sufficient to simply turn the motor on once a month to see if it works. Equally, it is not acceptable to interrupt the power supply to a hospital, financial centre or other critical application once a month by connecting the generator to run a test.

"There are still countless standby generators going untested that may or may not work in the event of a power outage. With this white paper, Cressall hopes to help industry appreciate the importance of regular load bank testing.”