# Resistive-reactive load bank

Canonical URL: https://eloragrid.ai/symbols/resistive-reactive-load-bank
Publisher: Elora Grid
Updated: 2026-10-28
Lookup label: LB RL
Drawing use: SLD
Reference families: IEC, IEEE / ANSI

A test load bank combining resistive and inductive steps to load a generator at its rated power factor.

## In plain English

### What does Resistive-reactive load bank mean?

A resistive-reactive load bank adds inductive reactor steps to resistive elements so that a generator can be tested at its full rated kVA and rated power factor, typically 0.8 lagging. This exercises the alternator excitation, voltage regulator and transformer heating in a way a resistive bank cannot.

### A simple example

Drawings show resistor and reactor groups in parallel, each with step switching, connected through a breaker. The power factor range and the kW and kvar totals are written beside the symbol.

### What the drawings help you do

Reactive load banks are heavier and more costly, so they are mainly used for commissioning large sets and paralleling tests. The symbol does not show the switching sequence or the instrumentation used to record test results.

### This particular reference

A test load bank combining resistive and inductive steps to load a generator at its rated power factor. A resistive-reactive bank tests at rated kVA and power factor; a resistive bank tests at unity power factor only.

### Terms

- Winding: A coil of conductor inside an electrical machine or transformer.
- Rating: A value stating the conditions for which equipment is specified.
- Schematic: A drawing showing function and connections rather than physical appearance.

Concept diagram: Identify the device and form → Read the connections and state → Check the equipment reference
A guide to reading this reference. The original symbol illustration and its drawing notes appear below; these boxes are not a wiring diagram.

- [T-030 liquid-cooled generator set application manual](https://www.cummins.com/sites/default/files/2024-08/t030-Liquid-cooled-gen-set-application-manual.pdf)
- [AutoCAD Electrical: Reactors and inductors](https://help.autodesk.com/cloudhelp/2021/ENU/AutoCAD-Electrical/files/GUID-BAD50DBF-0951-44A0-BB4C-A57B4A4ED895.htm)


## What it represents

A resistive-reactive load bank adds inductive reactor steps to resistive elements so that a generator can be tested at its full rated kVA and rated power factor, typically 0.8 lagging. This exercises the alternator excitation, voltage regulator and transformer heating in a way a resistive bank cannot.
Drawings show resistor and reactor groups in parallel, each with step switching, connected through a breaker. The power factor range and the kW and kvar totals are written beside the symbol.
Reactive load banks are heavier and more costly, so they are mainly used for commissioning large sets and paralleling tests. The symbol does not show the switching sequence or the instrumentation used to record test results.

## How to read it

- Read both kW and kvar ratings.
- Check that power factor range matches the generator rating.

## Information to show or reference

- State kW, kvar and power factor range.
- Show resistor and reactor steps.
- Reference test procedure.

## Important distinction

A resistive-reactive bank tests at rated kVA and power factor; a resistive bank tests at unity power factor only.

## Facts

- Load type: Resistive and inductive
- Typical test power factor: 0.8 lagging
- Use: Full kVA commissioning tests
- Preview: Independent educational illustration; consult the applicable standard and project legend for the exact graphic

## Public references

- [T-030 liquid-cooled generator set application manual](https://www.cummins.com/sites/default/files/2024-08/t030-Liquid-cooled-gen-set-application-manual.pdf) — Cummins. Public generator application context for testing.
- [AutoCAD Electrical: Reactors and inductors](https://help.autodesk.com/cloudhelp/2021/ENU/AutoCAD-Electrical/files/GUID-BAD50DBF-0951-44A0-BB4C-A57B4A4ED895.htm) — Autodesk. Public reactor symbol family context.

## Graphic scope

Independent original educational concept illustration by Elora Grid. Not a certified standards graphic or manufacturer footprint. Unitless; not to scale. Original artwork licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. Publisher material is linked only.