What Issues Should Be Noted When Selecting Load Banks for Different Types of Generators?

Diesel generators are the most widely used models in the industrial field. The primary concern when selecting a load bank is power matching. Diesel generators have rated power and standby power. The rated power of the load bank should cover 80%-100% of the generator's rated power, which not only prevents insufficient diesel combustion and carbon/oil accumulation caused by low load but also avoids damage to the generator cylinder block and turbocharger due to overload. Meanwhile, a resistive load bank should be selected for its stable resistance and good heat dissipation, which is suitable for the high-current output characteristics of diesel generators. It is also necessary to confirm that the voltage level of the load bank is consistent with the generator's output voltage, supporting three-phase or single-phase output switching.
 

1000kW Load Bank

 

Gasoline generators are mostly used in small civilian scenarios, such as household emergencies and outdoor camping. When selecting a load bank, portability and safety are prioritized. Gasoline generators have low power, usually 1-10kW, so the corresponding load bank should be lightweight and easy to operate, preferably with an integrated structure to avoid line damage during split transportation. In addition, gasoline is flammable and explosive, so the load bank must have good insulation performance and a complete shell grounding design. At the same time, it should match the voltage fluctuation range of the generator to prevent stalling caused by sudden load changes.

 

Gas-fired generators use natural gas or liquefied gas as fuel and have outstanding environmental friendliness. When selecting a load bank, attention should be paid to load adjustment accuracy and compatibility. The output power of gas-fired generators is greatly affected by gas pressure, so the load bank should support stepless speed regulation, which can accurately simulate load changes under different working conditions and test the dynamic response capability of the generator. Meanwhile, gas-fired generators are sensitive to harmonic interference, so a low-harmonic load bank should be selected to avoid harmonic feedback affecting the generator's ignition system and control system, ensuring true and reliable test data.

 

In addition, regardless of the generator type, heat dissipation performance and protection level should be considered when selecting a load bank. Load banks used outdoors should have a protection level of IP54 or higher to resist wind, rain, and dust erosion. High-power load banks need to be equipped with forced cooling systems to prevent component damage due to overheating during long-term operation. Meanwhile, intelligent load banks with data collection functions are preferred, which can record real-time parameters such as voltage, current, and frequency, facilitating subsequent fault diagnosis and performance analysis.

 

In summary, the core of selecting a load bank is to achieve performance matching between the generator and the load bank. By focusing on key indicators such as power matching, load accuracy, and safety according to the generator's fuel type, power range, and usage scenario, the generator's performance can be effectively tested, and the service life of the equipment can be extended.