What is a radiator mounted load bank?
A radiator mounted load bank is specifically designed to mount in front of the radiator on a diesel generating
set. The engine fans of the diesel gen-set provide suitable airflow to cool the resistive elements. Radiator
mounted load banks are intended to supply supplemental load between 50-70% of nameplate kW rating of
the gen-set to alleviate the effects associated with light loading.
Why choose a radiator mounted load bank, and considerations when specifying
There are numerous benefits to using a radiator mounted load bank. The units can be mounted on the inside,
outside or on the roof of the gen-set enclosure. Radiator mounted load banks can also be installed in exhaust
ductwork if necessary cooling air is provided. The overall footprint of a radiator mounted unit is primarily
based on the core dimensions of the gen-set radiator. This translates to a radiator style load bank having a
smaller footprint compared to portable or permanent load bank designs. A smaller footprint can beneficial in
applications where space is at a premium. Powerlite offers the smallest radiator load bank footprint vs kW on
the market to ensure effective space utilisation.
Radiator mounted load banks are an economical solution for load testing as no cooling fans and related components
are required. However, it is important to understand the unit will be specifically manufactured to
permanently fit a specific gen-set size affecting the option to use in other applications.
Gen-set airflow exhaust is restricted when a radiator mounted load bank is fitted. A radiator mounted load
bank should not be designed for more than 70% of the nameplate kW without the approval of the generator
set manufacturer since the additional heat load and back pressure could compromise the engine’s cooling
system (particularly in high ambient temperature applications). It is recommended that for applications requiring
100% gen-set kW loading, a freestanding unit is specified.
Powerlites radiator mounted load banks are also designed to have much lower back-pressure compared to
competitive units. The lower back-pressure helps to prevent the gen-set from overheating during operation which in turn
maintains a longer operating life
Some more reading that will assist you.
https://powerlite.com.au/diesel-generator-set-underloading-and-its-impacts/
