Load Banks

Load banks ensure equipment operates correctly, especially during power outages, and are used across various industries, including battery systems, generator inverters, and aircraft. They integrate load, electrical, mechanical, and voltage testing into one unit. In Hong Kong, RS partners with leading manufacturers recognised for their expertise, providing high-quality load bank solutions to keep your equipment in optimal condition.

Load bank testing tests a uninterruptible power supply (UPS) and ensures the performance and battery of a system, tested under load testing conditions, an important part of system operation and maintenance. The Load bank takes on the operation of electrical load which a power source normally deals with testing the operation of the equipment.

When a generator is installed you should test the generator operation on a regular basis. Load banks are used to test a generator as they mimic the load produced and identify and correct any issues.

Benefits of Using Load Banks

Load banks play a critical role in testing and maintaining power systems, especially backup generators. Below are the key benefits of using load banks:

Enhanced Generator Performance

Load bank testing subjects generators to simulated real-world loads, ensuring they can operate at full capacity without issues. This process helps identify potential problems such as overheating or voltage instability, allowing for timely maintenance and preventing unexpected failures during actual power outages.

Prevention of Wet Stacking

For diesel generators, operating under low loads can lead to wet stacking, where unburned fuel accumulates in the exhaust system. Load bank testing burns off these residues by running the generator at higher electronicloads, thereby maintaining engine efficiency and extending its lifespan.

Compliance with Industry Standards

Regular load bank testing ensures compliance with standards like NFPA 110, which mandates specific testing protocols for emergency power systems. Adhering to these standards is crucial for facilities such as hospitals and data centers, where power reliability is critical.

Cost Savings

By identifying and addressing issues early through load bank testing, facilities can avoid costly repairs and downtime. This proactive approach leads to significant cost savings in the long term.

Staff Training Opportunities

Load bank testing provides hands-on experience for maintenance personnel, enhancing their skills in operating and troubleshooting power systems. This practical training ensures that staff are well-prepared to manage and maintain critical power infrastructure effectively.

Types of Generator Load Banks available.

There are two main types of generator load banks: resistive and reactive.

Reactive Load Banks.

• Reactive load banks test loads using an inductor or capacitor converting electrical energy to a magnetic field. Suited for transformers and motor-driven equipment.

Resistive Load Bank.

• A resistive load bank is widely used within many industries and tests the source / generator at full capacity, measures load, converting electrical energy to heat.
• Resistive load banks are available in various formats from size, power range, portable or fixed (rack mounted) plus are suited for portable generators, small generators and UPS.
• DC Portable Resistive Load Bank.
• AC Portable (small and large) Resistive Load Bank.
• AC Trailer mounted or fixed load bank.
• AC Voltage (medium/high) Load Bank.
• AC Radiator or water cooled.

There are also Capacitive and Inductive load banks available also used for generator testing.

• Inductive load banks only test up to 75% of full testing.
• Capacitive load banks test create power factor loads and again test only 75% of full power.

How Load Banks Work?

Load banks are essential tools for testing and maintaining electrical power sources like generators, UPS, and batteries. They simulate real-world electrical loads to assess performance, capacity, and reliability.

When connected to a power source, load banks apply a controlled electrical load using resistive, inductive, or capacitive elements. Resistive load banks convert electrical energy into heat using resistors, dissipating the heat through fans or liquid cooling systems. Inductive load banks utilize coils or transformers to create magnetic fields, simulating loads from motors and transformers. Capacitive load banks employ capacitors to generate leading power factors, mimicking loads from electronic devices and power factor correction equipment.

By imposing these simulated loads, load banks enable operators to verify how well a power source performs under various conditions, ensuring it can handle its rated capacity and operate efficiently when needed.

Common Applications of Load Banks

Here are some of the applications of load banks:

Generator Testing and Maintenance

Load banks simulate real-world electrical loads to test generators' performance, ensuring they can handle their rated capacity and operate efficiently.

UPS and Battery System Testing

Load banks are employed to test UPS and battery systems, verifying their ability to provide backup power during outages.

Healthcare Facilities

Hospitals and healthcare facilities use load banks to test emergency power systems, ensuring that critical medical equipment remains operational during power failures.

Data Centers

Data centers utilize load banks to assess the resilience and performance of backup power systems. By subjecting the power infrastructure to artificial loads, load banks help data center operators identify weaknesses, plan for contingencies, and ensure uninterrupted operations.

Industrial Manufacturing

In industrial settings, load banks are used to test the reliability and efficiency of power generation equipment, ensuring uninterrupted production processes.

How to Order Load Banks from RS?

RS is a trusted supplier of AC and DC load banks in Hong Kong from top brands like Powerprove and Arcol. You can place orders online for next-day delivery, collect from a local branch, or directly order by phone. We also offer blanket orders with spend limits, ideal for managing ongoing purchases.

How Delivery of Load Banks Works at RS Hong Kong?

RS offers same-day delivery in Hong Kong for orders of load banks placed before noon and next-day delivery for afternoon orders or weekend purchases. Flexible express delivery is also available for urgent needs with additional fees. For more details related to delivery options and charges, please refer to our delivery information page.