PORTABLE GROUND POWER & MAINTENANCE UNITS

Ground power units (GPUs) are items of ground-based aircraft support equipment which feed AC or DC electric power to an airplane or helicopter. When the aircraft is not in flight or taxiing, these external power systems are preferred over using the aircraft's onboard auxiliary power unit (APU). Standard aircraft power requirements include 12 VDC or 28VDC and 110VAC at 400Hz. GPU power is used for reciprocating or jet engine ignition, to start the APU, to check the safety functions of the aircraft before takeoff, and to provide power for other aircraft systems. GPU's are valued because they frequently run on diesel fuel which is cheaper than jet fuel, but modern electric GPU's are more valuable because they run quieter and cleaner than Disel-powered GPU's/ or onboard engine systems.

At major airports, GPU's are often built into the jetway itself, with cords that can be concealed when not in use. Other GPU's are trailer-mounted or bed-mounted. All GPU's connect to aircraft via cords which are standardized in ISO 6858. GPU's which can provide compressed air to aircraft are known as combined starting units (CSU's). GPU's and CSU's are utilized for private, commercial, and military aircraft. 

It is widely understood that not all electricity is the same, so no need to dig into the specifics. When you are looking at a GPU for your aircraft, fleet, or ground operation, it is, really important to make sure you acquire a unit that is compatible with all of the aircraft.

General aviation and smaller jets and turboprop aircraft operate on a direct current (DC) system, basically the same as your car. They may be either 12-volt or 24-volt systems, which require 14-volt DC or 28-volt DC power generation to maintain the charge on the batteries used for the electrical function of the aircraft.

Large business jets and all airliners, on the other hand, run an alternating current (AC) electrical system, generally in the 400 Hz band. This is the type of electricity that runs our houses, buildings, offices, etc. These large aircraft run AC systems because they inherently require much more energy than a DC system can provide.

Think back to the last time you were on an airliner: interior lights on the entire flight, electrical outlets on every seat, TVs built into every headrest, not to mention the unbelievable power requirements of a fly-by-wire system like those used on every single Airbus! The energy demand is absolutely staggering so a DC system is just not suitable for the mission. 

GPU's are not universally powered by internal combustion engines; a lot of organizations opt for all-electrical frequency converters which convert standard, 3-phase electrical power to the specified AC or DC rate, or Electric Power Systems.

The decision here rests on what your mission looks like. Gas and diesel-powered units are much bulkier and less portable than electric GPU's, and require fuel to operate, and upkeep the engine as well as the electrical components. Also, these units are loud and produce considerable noise pollution.

The all-electric ground power units are so much nicer. They are absolutely quiet.

Out GPU's are Designed, Engineered, and Manufactured all in the United States, and developed with the latest state-of-the-art battery and power management technology, our products are trusted internationally. Our GPU's are built for heavy-duty applications and are designed to withstand all environments, however tough. Our GPU's feature superior technical and after-sales support thanks to our long-standing industry experience and our passion for the industries in which we work. Peak Power Pack offers unparalleled value for money and fast global shipping via our international dealership network.

Our range of portable power supply units – also sometimes referred to as aircraft jump starter packs – are purpose-built to start and power all small to medium size, piston and turbine engine aircraft. They are, tough, light, and ultra-compact. All our packs feature lithium cells. Since all our packs have lithium cells, they also offer twice the battery life of lead-acid batteries with zero sulfation, ensuring reliable power, when you most need it. 

Not sure which portable starting unit is the right one for you? Call us today and we will help you find the correct power supply which best suits your needs and those of your Aircraft. Some of our GPU's are powerful enough to power your Aircraft during essential Aircraft maintenance procedures. Get in touch with us for all your Ground Equipment needs.