PLATE A 0301241 - Caterpillar

electrical test bench is used for bench testing an alternator. The test bench turns the alternator at the specified shaft speed while the output voltage and current are monitored. To properly bench test an alternator, the manufacturers test procedure requires the use of: * Batteries of the proper voltage; which simulates true machine conditions.* A load bank; which causes the alternator to generate the maximum rated output.
Always use batteries of the correct voltage when bench testing an alternator on a electrical test bench. Never test an alternator by using just a load bank. The correct batteries must also be in the circuit to simulate true machine conditions. The results of an alternator bench test can be incorrect if batteries are not used.