Load Banks

Resistive and reactive load banks for rental across generator, UPS and battery testing.

Overview

Load banks from the Raptronics rental fleet let you test generators, UPS systems, battery installations and site power infrastructure under real load. We rent portable and trailer-mounted resistive and resistive-reactive load banks, for short and long term hire, with cabling and setup guidance included.

Standby power only proves itself when it carries load. A generator that starts every month on a no-load test can still fail to hold its voltage and frequency when the building actually transfers to it. A load bank applies a controlled load so the system can be tested at the levels it will see in a real event, without putting the facility at risk.

Our team can help you size the load bank for your test and plan the connection on site.

Load banks also help on new projects. Commissioning a data hall, a new standby generator or a UPS installation before the real load arrives lets the owner prove the system and fix any problems while there is still time in the schedule.

Specifications

Load types
Resistive and resistive-reactive
Formats
Portable and trailer-mounted
Rental terms
Short and long term
Included
Cabling and setup guidance

Types

  • Resistive load banks

    Apply a pure kW load at unity power factor. They suit routine generator testing, UPS testing and checking that the prime mover can deliver its rated power.

  • Resistive-reactive load banks

    Add an inductive component so the test runs at a lagging power factor, closer to how real loads such as motors behave. This tests the alternator and voltage regulation as well as the engine.

  • Portable and trailer-mounted units

    Portable units fit into buildings and smaller sites, while trailer-mounted units deliver larger loads to generator yards and outdoor sites.

Applications

  • Generator testing

    Commissioning and periodic load testing of standby and prime power generators.

  • Data centres

    Integrated systems testing of new data halls before IT equipment arrives, and periodic testing of the power chain.

Applicable standards

We carry the applicable standards for your voltage class. Please reach out with your inquiries for more details.

Availability and booking

Load banks are booked against your test dates. Commissioning schedules on data centre and generator projects often move, so let us know early and keep us updated as dates firm up.

Send us the generator or UPS rating, the test duration and the site location, and we will confirm a suitable unit and availability.

Frequently asked questions

What size of load bank do I need?

It depends on the rating of the generator or UPS and the test procedure. Tests are often run at a percentage of nameplate rating. Send us the equipment rating and test requirements and we will recommend a unit.

What is the difference between a resistive and a resistive-reactive load bank?

A resistive load bank tests at unity power factor. A resistive-reactive load bank adds inductive load so the test runs at a lagging power factor, which also checks the alternator and voltage regulation.

Are cables included with the rental?

Yes, cabling and setup guidance are included.

Can I rent a load bank for a long project?

Yes. Load banks are available for short and long term rental.

Are load banks used for data centre commissioning?

Yes. Load banks are used to test the power and cooling systems of data centres before IT equipment is installed.

Why is a no-load generator run not enough?

Running a diesel generator at light load for long periods can lead to unburnt fuel and carbon building up in the exhaust system, often called wet stacking, and it does not prove the set can carry its rated load. A load bank test runs the generator at a meaningful load, which shows whether it can deliver the power the site depends on.

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