Ground Power Unit (GPU)
A Ground Power Unit (GPU) is a mobile or stationary device which is used to provide electrical power to aircraft while they are on the ground. When an aircraft is on the ground, it requires electricity to run various systems, such as lights, avionics, ramp operations and air conditioning. This power can either come from the on-board auxiliary power unit (APU) or the ground power unit (GPU). The GPU is connected through a cable to the aircraft and provides the necessary electrical power to operate the on-board systems. In general, the GPU provides 115 Volt Alternating Current (AC) at 400 Hz only smaller aircraft operate with 28 Volt Direct Current (DC).
GPUs can be differentiated in mobile ground power units and stationary ground power units. Mobile GPU typically consist of diesel power generator or a large electrical battery and can be either towable trailer mounted or mounted on a truck.
Battery powered GPUs are referred to as eGPU. eGPU are much more silent than diesel GPU so it is pleasure for both boarding passengers and operating staffs. An eGPU also plays an important role for greener and healthier environment which can reduce the noise and CO2 emissions. Due to lower running costs than diesel powered GPU for no moving parts, vulnerable to wear and tear the total cost of ownership for eGPU is lower after few years than diesel engine.
We can supply a full range of solid-state, diesel-driven and battery powered Ground Power Units from 400 Hz frequency converters to 28 VDC Ground Power Unit or a combination unit in a single or 3-phase input voltage as per customer’s requirement.
