The Importance of Load Test Data Capture

Reliable and consistent power is vital for mission-critical facilities. Load banks are an integral part of maintaining back-up power systems such as diesel generating-sets and uninterruptible power supplies. Avtron uses market leading SIGMA load bank control to record load test data and provide in-depth reports to operator driven parameters. The following narrative explains how captured data is utilized and why it is so beneficial.

Why is load test data beneficial?

Consistency in load testing

Consistency is key when testing diesel generating-sets and UPS systems in critical environments, it ensures the same test is performed each time and helps build a database of how a power source performs over time. If a diesel gen-set is being tested to different parameters each time how can trends and changes in operation be compared? The test data helps predict when upgrades or maintenance is required.

In generator factory test cells capturing and reporting performance is important for sign off on each product sold. The captured test data proves power reliability standards are met, such as part 6 of ISO8528.

Analysis

Analyzing how a power supply reacts to load is useful for understanding potential issues and causes. Collating load test data during and after a load test allows the operator to pinpoint when an issue occurred and under what parameters. Understanding when and how a fault occurs can explain why it happened and how to prevent it in the future.

Record Keeping

Load test data allows facility managers and load bank operators to keep records of specific load bank tests. The records can be referred to for insurance purposes and to ensure future testing follow the same procedures. For rental companies, capturing the load test data allows a full report to be presented to the customer. Alternatively, in permanent installations the records can be transferred between facilities to compare backup power systems to help plan future upgrades and diagnostics.

Code Compliance

In most cases, emergency power generating systems must comply with various code requirements based on National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 110, Joint Commission, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Tier regulations, and National Electrical Code (NEC) specifications. Each of these codes require accurate and verifiable load test data, before any compliance sign off.

Avtron SIGMA Load Bank Control

Avtron uses SIGMA control to capture load test data. SIGMA is designed and built by in-house firmware engineers specifically for Avtron load banks. There are multiple control interfaces available within the SIGMA system each with varying degrees of data capture capabilities.