4 Reasons for Dysfunctional Generators and Need Load Bank Testing

Posted by Ron William on April 19th, 2018

Generators are known to be this special standby power source that is known to come to use when power supply from the mains fail to provide the right energy. Given the advancements in technology, it is very seldom that the main power source fails and the generator is put to use.

This stagnancy in usage often leads to generators becoming dysfunctional and when in need these generators fail to provide with the right power supply. The only way out to allow them to get back to being functional is the use of load banks that would ensure the best health for the generators. When it comes to finding out the reason why generators fail to start, here are a few of them.

Contaminated fuel

When it comes to letting the generator’s engine perform at its best, there is the need to make use of good quality fuel, and nothing else can help in the smooth functionality. With contaminants in the fuel especially water, the engine stops to function as normal. While dirt and dust present in the fuel can settle at the bottom while causing intensive damage to the generator as well as contaminating new fuel that is poured into the tank.

Wet stacking

Generators are meant to run at a certain temperature, and whenever the temperature is lower than normal, and there is a use for an extended period, it results in leakage and over fuelling. Existing fuel tends to give way and thus leading to trouble when making use of the generator. A resistive load bank can help in sorting out problems when force is applied to the generator and made to work in normal conditions while getting rid of the existing fuel that caused leakage in the first place.

Air bubbles in the fuel unit

This is something common for new generators where the fuel unit is known to contain air bubbles and preventing the fuel from performing its duty. This is something that prevents the generator from starting or probably giving out problems when put to work. The air bubbles cannot often leave unless the generator works to its full capacity. Therefore, load bank testing is what ensures that the air bubbles are brought out as these testing sessions allow the generators to work in their fullest capacity to check its capability.

Low levels of the coolant

Whenever there is an external or internal leakage, the coolant levels tend to subside, and it is often come to notice when put to the test using reactive load banks. When testing, the sighting of coolant puddles is something that should be looked out for. If that is visible, then there is some problem that the generator is facing. The oil colour should also be checked during such times, and if there is a change in colour, there are chances of the coolant seeping into the oil tank.

Resource Box – The author… is associated with Leading Power Solutions for a long time and has handled a number of projects related to resistive load bank testing. The author also possesses relevant information about reactive load banks for industries that are used in generator testing.