Types of Load Banks and What They’re Used For in Testing

Types of Load Banks and Their Applications

All load bank testing should be performed by qualified professionals in accordance with the generator and load bank manufacturers’ guidelines. Always follow proper safety protocols and consult with certified technicians before conducting any testing procedures.

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Load banks are essential tools in power system maintenance and commissioning. They simulate electrical loads to safely test equipment- generators, UPS systems, and transfer switches — without disrupting operations.

There are several different types of load banks, each suited to different testing scenarios. Understanding the difference can help ensure accurate system validation and performance assessment.

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Looking for certified load bank solutions?

‍Explore Foxfab’s Load Bank Connection Cabinets for safe, reliable power testing.

1. Resistive Load Banks

What they do:

Resistive load banks convert electrical energy directly into heat, simulating real-world resistive loads like lights, heaters, and other standard building equipment.

Common uses:

• Testing generators at rated capacity
• Verifying system performance after installation
• Conducting regular maintenance to prevent wet stacking

Best for:

• Emergency power systems
• Basic generator function testing
• System acceptance testing

2. Inductive Load Banks

What they do:

Inductive load banks simulate "lagging" power factor loads — similar to motors, transformers, and inductive ballasts — using a combination of resistive and reactive elements.

Common uses:

• Testing generator voltage regulation
• Evaluating switchgear and power transfer equipment
• Simulating mixed building loads

Best for:

• Industrial facilities
• Large commercial buildings
• Full power system simulations

3. Capacitive Load Banks

What they do:

Capacitive load banks create a "leading" power factor load, ideal for testing power systems with non-linear or reactive load profiles (like electronics-heavy facilities).

Common uses:

• Evaluating systems with data centres or telecom loads
• High-frequency UPS testing
• Simulating advanced IT infrastructure demand

Best for:

• Telecommunications
• Server farms
• High-tech commercial buildings

4. Electronic Load Banks

What they do:

Electronic load banks deliver programmable, variable, or constant power to simulate highly precise load profiles — ideal for circuit-level diagnostics and high-voltage applications.

Common uses:

• Circuit breaker testing
• System design validation
• Targeted fault detection in complex systems

Best for:

• Utility-scale operations
• R&D and testing labs
• High-voltage power systems

How Foxfab Supports Load Bank Testing

While Foxfab does not provide load banks or testing services, we specialize in Load Bank Connection Cabinets that enable safe, code-compliant connections between your power source and temporary load bank equipment.

Our cabinets are:

• ✅ ETL Listed to UL1008 standards
• ✅ Rated up to 4000A
• ✅ Built with colour-coded Camlock receptacles for fast, safe hookups
• ✅ Customizable in 5052 aluminum, 304 or 316 stainless steel
• ✅ Available in wall- or pad-mounted formats, with IBC seismic certification

Whether you're testing backup generators, transfer switches, or UPS systems, Foxfab provides the infrastructure that makes testing possible — efficiently and safely.

�� Need a connection solution for your next load bank test?

Contact sales@foxfab.com or visit www.foxfab.com to explore our Load Bank Cabinets and other critical power distribution products.

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FAQ

What are the four main types of load banks?

The four main types are resistive, inductive, capacitive, and electronic load banks, Each is designed for different testing scenarios and power system needs.

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What are load banks used for in generator testing?

Load banks simulate real electrical loads to verify generator performance identify weaknesses, and ensure systems operate reliably during outages.

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How do I choose the right load bank?

Choosing the right load bank depends on your testing needs, system voltage, and application. Resistive is most common, while inductive, capacitive, adn electronic are used for specialized testing.

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Why is UL1008 compliance important for load bank testing?

UL 1008 certification ensures Foxfab's connection cabinets meet strict safety and performance standards, providing secure and reliable testing up to 4000A.

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