Ground Power Unit Aircraft Function

Ground power unit gpu are a central part of an airport s ground handling operation and aircraft function.
Ground power unit aircraft function. Ground power units are used during ground handling whenever it is necessary to provide the aircraft with electrical power. Ground power unit gpu is the term given to equipment that powers or starts aircraft whilst on the ground. Ground power units usually provide either. Ground power units usually consist of a generator powered by a diesel engine but may found in other configurations.
When gpus are not properly maintained the results can be both dangerous and extremely expensive. Others can produce 28 v. There s also a kind known as an aircraft ground power unit. A ground power unit is a vehicle capable of supplying power to aircraft parked on the ground.
A gpu can refer to a dedicated electric power supply battery power supply or a combination of both. Ground power units are available in a variety of configurations and power capacities. Find your aircraft ground power unit easily amongst the 331 products from the leading brands guinault lebrun jbt aerotech start pac on aeroexpo the aeronautic equipment specialist for your professional purchases. A gpu much unlike your average household power supply is unique in that it provides a very specific ripple free or clean voltage this ensures sensitive avionics and control systems within the aircraft are.
An auxiliary power unit apu is a device on a vehicle that provides energy for functions other than propulsion they are commonly found on large aircraft and naval ships as well as some large land vehicles. Ground power units may also be built into the jetway making it even easier to supply electrical power to aircraft many aircraft require 28 v of direct current and 115 v 400 hz of alternating current the electric energy is carried from a generator to a connection on the aircraft via 3 phase 4 wire. Aircraft apus generally produce 115 v alternating current ac at 400 hz rather than 50 60 hz in mains supply to run the electrical systems of the aircraft. Aero specialties manufactures jetgo 28 5v dc diesel electric hybrid aircraft ground power units gpus in the united states.
Ground power unit or gpu for short is the name given to power supply equipment that provides clean power for both maintenance and engine starting aircraft that are on the ground. Gpus are a vital part of ground support equipment and proper maintenance and inspection is key. Aircraft ground power units gpus are used to supply power to aircraft when they are on the ground and to aid in starting aircraft engines. Auxiliary power unit apu.
It is obligatory for all gpu operators to be familiar with the basic principles of operation as well as safety requirements.