For airports, MRO facilities, aircraft maintenance organizations and ground handling companies, selecting the correct Aircraft Ground Power Unit (GPU) is not simply a matter of choosing the highest power rating.

A properly selected GPU affects:

• Aircraft electrical system safety
• Maintenance efficiency
• Ground operation reliability
• Equipment lifecycle cost
• Future fleet expansion capability

Many buyers face the same question:

Should we choose a 30kVA, 60kVA or 90kVA GPU?

Help Me Choose

The correct answer depends on:

• Aircraft type
• Ground operation requirements
• Maintenance workload
• Airport environment
• Future development plans

A GPU that is too small may cause insufficient power supply during aircraft operation.

A GPU that is unnecessarily oversized may increase investment cost and reduce operating efficiency.

Therefore, professional procurement teams should evaluate GPU selection from an engineering perspective rather than only comparing price.

What Is an Aircraft Ground Power Unit (GPU)?

An Aircraft Ground Power Unit is an external power supply system designed to provide electrical power to aircraft while they are parked on the ground.

Aircraft normally require specialized electrical power:

• 115V/120V AC
• 400Hz frequency
• Three-phase aircraft power

because aircraft electrical systems are designed differently from standard industrial power systems.

A 400Hz GPU converts normal utility electricity:

50Hz / 60Hz commercial power

into:

400Hz aircraft-grade power

allowing aircraft to perform:

• Aircraft maintenance
• Avionics testing
• Pre-flight preparation
• Ground inspection
• Engine start support

The ACSOON GPU400 Series is designed as a solid-state static frequency converter, converting 50Hz/60Hz mains power into 400Hz aircraft power for aircraft engine start and maintenance applications.

Understanding GPU Capacity: What Does kVA Mean?

GPU capacity is normally measured in kVA.

kVA represents the maximum apparent power output capability of the unit.

Different aircraft and operations require different power levels.

A simple understanding:

However, capacity selection should not only consider the aircraft size.

The operation scenario is equally important.

30kVA GPU Selection Guide

When Should You Choose a 30kVA GPU?

A 30kVA GPU is commonly selected for:

• Small aircraft maintenance
• Business aviation
• Training aircraft
• Light-duty ground power applications

Typical users include:

• Flight schools
• Small aviation operators
• Private aircraft hangars
• Maintenance workshops

Advantages of 30kVA GPU

1. Lower Investment Cost

For operations without large aircraft power requirements, a 30kVA solution avoids unnecessary equipment investment.

2. Compact Installation

Smaller capacity systems normally require less installation space.

The GPU400 Series 30kVA/45kVA models use a compact Type A structure.

3. Efficient for Light Operations

For occasional aircraft maintenance and low-frequency operation, 30kVA provides a practical balance.

60kVA GPU Selection Guide

Why Is 60kVA One of the Most Popular Choices?

60kVA is often considered the balanced choice between:

• Power capability
• Cost
• Installation requirements
• Operational flexibility

It is suitable for:

• Aircraft maintenance centers
• Regional airports
• MRO facilities
• Daily aircraft servicing

For many aviation operators, 60kVA provides enough power capacity without unnecessary oversizing.

Typical 60kVA Applications

Examples:

Aircraft Maintenance Hangar

Aircraft may require stable 400Hz power for:

• Avionics checking
• Cabin systems testing
• Electrical maintenance

Airport Apron Operations

A reliable GPU helps reduce dependency on aircraft APU operation.

MRO Expansion

A 60kVA system provides flexibility when aircraft maintenance demand increases.

90kVA GPU Selection Guide

When Is 90kVA GPU the Better Choice?

90kVA is usually selected for higher power demand environments.

Applications include:

• Commercial aviation
• Large aircraft maintenance
• Busy airport operations
• High-frequency aircraft servicing

The GPU400 Series includes 90kVA capacity options designed for higher-demand aircraft ground power applications.

Why Middle East and Southeast Asia Buyers Often Consider Higher Capacity GPUs

Airport environments in Middle East and Southeast Asia have several characteristics:

1. High Aircraft Utilization

Major aviation hubs operate aircraft continuously.

Ground equipment must support:

• Frequent turnaround
• Daily maintenance
• Long operation hours

2. Harsh Environmental Conditions

Typical challenges include:

• High temperature
• Dust
• Humidity
• Outdoor apron installation

A reliable GPU should provide:

• Stable voltage output
• Protection functions
• High efficiency

The GPU400 Series provides protection against over-current, overload, overheating and short circuit conditions.

Key Specifications to Check Before Purchasing a GPU

Professional buyers should evaluate the following specifications.

1. Output Voltage and Frequency

The aircraft power requirement must match:

• Voltage
• Frequency
• Phase configuration

GPU400 Series provides:

• 115V / 120V aircraft AC output
• 400Hz frequency
• Three-phase output system

2. Power Quality

Modern aircraft require stable electrical power.

Important indicators:

Frequency Stability

Aviation systems require precise frequency control.

GPU400 Series provides:

Frequency stability:

±0.01% FS

Voltage Regulation

Stable voltage protects aircraft electronic systems.

GPU400 Series provides:Voltage regulation:±1% FS

Harmonic Distortion

Clean sine wave output reduces electrical stress.

GPU400 Series provides:Pure sine wave output with VTHD <2%.

GPU Selection Decision Process

Step 1: Identify Aircraft Requirements

Confirm:

• Aircraft models
• Electrical requirements
• Maintenance activities

Step 2: Analyze Operating Frequency

Ask:

How many aircraft will the GPU serve daily?

Low frequency:→ 30kVA

Regular maintenance:→ 60kVA

Heavy commercial operation:→ 90kVA

Step 3: Consider Future Expansion

Avoid selecting equipment only for today's requirement.

Consider:

• Fleet expansion
• New aircraft models
• Increased maintenance demand

Recommended Selection Summary

Final Purchasing Advice

Choosing an aircraft GPU is a long-term operational decision.

The lowest purchase price does not always mean the lowest cost.

A professional selection should consider:

✔ Aircraft compatibility
✔ Power quality
✔ Operating environment
✔ Maintenance requirements
✔ Future expansion

The right 400Hz GPU improves aircraft maintenance efficiency, reduces operational risk and provides stable ground power support.

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