Background Information
Load banks are used to test power sources and distribution systems to verify the performance and regulatory compliance of power sources; ensure that minimum operating load requirements for power sources are met; test facility backup power systems without using live building load; or to adjust power factor. At many facilities, the use of load banks will occur regularly over long periods of time and static load banks are installed for this purpose. Examples include factories that must test the electrical equipment they produce, laboratories that regularly apply electrical load for test or research purposes, and mission-critical facilities that must regularly test backup power systems to verify their readiness for service during utility power outages.
For other facilities, the scope of load bank use may be limited by the nature of a facilities activities or a need to use load banks only at certain times. One example - a facility that needs load banks only for annual testing or calibration of systems, or at the commissioning of a building and its equipment. Likewise, a testing or equipment rental business needs to relocate load banks often. This Application Note reviews five applications where moveable load banks are used.
Application 1: Load Banks Must Be Conveniently Transportable by One Person
“Suitcase-style” load banks offer the smallest and lightest form factor. These small load banks typically weigh less than 100 pounds (45 kilograms), are enclosed in a case, and fitted with a handle and wheels. Not unlike a technician’s toolkit or a traveler’s airline luggage, they are readily moveable by one person and are easily transported from location to location.
Offering typical capacities of 10 to 100 kilowatts (kW), these are suited for testing discrete equipment and smaller loads. They fit in small workspaces, such as narrow equipment aisles, or in irregular spaces that limit access to larger units.
ASCO Model 2500 and Model 2600 load banks represent the type. They each apply resistive load to three-phase systems, and the 2600 can also be used for single-phase applications. Each requires 120-Volt AC control power. Figure 1 includes an ASCO Model 2600 load bank.
For additional information, review the ASCO White Paper entitled Applying Loads in Limited Access Facilities and Distributed Environments - Applications for Suitcase-Style Load Banks.