Diesel generators are among the types of generators whose load must not fall below a certain minimum level specified by the generator manufacturer. However, in many cases, there is no guarantee that a minimum load will be present in the consumer system—especially in projects under construction, offshore oil platforms, gas compressor stations, and similar applications. Therefore, in such conditions, a load Bank or dummy load is used to ensure the minimum required load.
Failure to use a dummy load and operating diesel generators at loads lower than the specified minimum can lead to oil leakage in the diesel section, increased smoke emissions, reduced efficiency, and ultimately a reduction in the service life of the diesel engine.
Technical Specifications
This company typically manufactures its dummy loads in multiple steps and with a control panel to provide better efficiency and load selection flexibility for the operator. These control panels are available in three modes: manual, automatic, and connectable to a PMS (Power Management System).
Voltage Level
Since generators requiring dummy loads typically operate at voltage levels ranging from low-voltage systems up to 11 kV, this company is capable of manufacturing dummy loads within this voltage range and even at higher voltages if required.
Power Rating
There is no limitation for this company in manufacturing high-capacity dummy loads. However, the buyer must select the appropriate capacity based on the diesel generator power rating and the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Cooling
In most cases, this category of resistors is cooled using air forced(AF).
Enclosure
Due to the use of AF cooling, the resistive section of dummy loads is typically manufactured with a protection degree of IP23.
Protection
Dummy load control panels are equipped with a phase sequence relay to monitor phase sequence and fan rotation direction, and are also fitted with a thermal switch.
In smart control panels, connectivity to a computer via RS485 port or other communication protocols is available, along with data logging capability and device control via PC.
Ordering Information
The following minimum information is required for ordering a dummy load device:
- Total voltage and power
- Number of steps and power rating of each step
- Complete information of the control panel (if required)