Why Should a Marine Generator Be Load Tested? #
A marine generator can start easily and sound perfectly normal while producing very little electrical power.
That does not necessarily mean the generator will perform correctly when the vessel begins using air conditioning, battery chargers, refrigeration and other electrical equipment.
This is where load testing becomes valuable.
What Does Generator Load Testing Evaluate? #
Depending on the generator and testing method, a load test can help evaluate:
- Output voltage
- Electrical frequency
- Engine speed
- Engine temperature
- Cooling-system performance
- Ability to carry electrical demand
- Stability as electrical load changes
Why Problems Can Appear Only Under Load #
The diesel engine must produce more power as electrical demand increases.
Problems involving fuel delivery, cooling, engine speed or the generator end may not appear while the generator is lightly loaded.
Examples include:
- Voltage dropping under load
- Frequency becoming unstable
- Engine RPM falling
- Generator overheating
- Generator shutting down
- Fuel supply becoming inadequate
When Is Load Testing Useful? #
Load testing can be valuable during:
- Preventative maintenance
- Generator troubleshooting
- Pre-purchase inspections
- Post-repair verification
A generator that starts is good.
A generator that can reliably carry the vessel’s electrical demand is much more important.
All Tech Diesel provides complete Marine Generator Maintenance, including performance testing when appropriate.
