Types of Electrical Ground Support Equipment (eGSE) for Aviation

The Evolution of Ground Support Equipment in Aviation

The aviation industry is undergoing a significant transformation as airports worldwide prioritize sustainability and operational efficiency. At the forefront of this evolution is the transition from traditional diesel-powered equipment to electrical ground support equipment (eGSE). This shift represents a critical step in the decarbonization of aviation operations, helping to reduce emissions while improving airport efficiency.

Electrical ground support equipment refers to all electric units used in airports to service parked aircraft. These innovative solutions are rapidly replacing conventional diesel-powered alternatives, offering cleaner, more efficient, and cost-effective options for ground handling operations.

Types of Electrical Ground Support Equipment

The category of electrical ground support equipment encompasses various specialized units designed to support different aspects of aircraft servicing. Understanding the different types of eGSE available is essential for airports and airlines looking to modernize their ground operations.

At ITW GSE, we specialize in Ground Power Units and Pre-Conditioned Air Units together with aircraft hoses and cables, but there are also other types of eGSE like:

Electric Pushback Tractors
Electric Baggage and Cargo Loaders
Electric Service Equipment

Ground Power Units (GPUs)

Ground Power Units provide essential electrical power to aircraft when their engines are shut down. Within this category, there are two main types:

Electrical GPUs - Line-powered ground power units connected to the airport's main electrical system
Battery-powered GPUs (eGPUs) - Portable units powered by rechargeable batteries

Modern solid-state GPUs deliver consistent, reliable power while minimizing space requirements. These units are available in various configurations:

28 VDC GPUs - Ideal for smaller aircraft that require direct current power
400 Hz GPUs - Designed for commercial aircraft that require precise frequency power
270 VDC, 400 Hz GPUs - Advanced units that meet the requirements of the most sophisticated aircraft systems

ITW GSE Ground Power Unit Solutions

We offer a comprehensive range of ground power solutions to meet diverse operational requirements:

Solid-State 28 VDC GPUs: Our 28 VDC solid-state ground power units are compact, lightweight, and highly maneuverable, making them perfect for operations where space is limited. These robust units deliver reliable power for smaller aircraft.
400 Hz Solid-State GPUs: Our compact 400 Hz GPUs are the market's best choice for point-of-use applications. Available in multiple ratings from 30 to 180 kVA, these units provide reliable power with minimal footprint.
270 VDC, 400 Hz GPUs: Our advanced 270 VDC, 400 Hz GPUs exceed the stringent requirements of the world's most sophisticated aircraft systems. You can read more about our military and defense solutions here.
Power Coil Solutions: Our innovative Power Coil combines a 400 Hz, 90 kVA power supply and a cable coil in a single enclosure, working seamlessly with all bridge sizes and aircraft types.
Cable Retriever Systems: For tidy aprons, hangars, or flight lines, our Cable Retriever systems protect valuable 400 Hz aircraft cables while maintaining operational efficiency.
Battery-Powered eGPUs: Our revolutionary battery-powered eGPUs are ideal for gates and hangars without fixed 400 Hz installations. These units feature high battery capacity allowing for days of use before recharging, making them perfect for remote operations.

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Environmental Benefits

One of the most significant advantages of eGSE is its positive environmental impact:

Zero Direct Emissions - Electric equipment produces no CO2 or NOx emissions at the point of use
Reduced Carbon Footprint - Lower overall emissions, especially when powered by renewable energy
Noise Reduction - Electric motors operate at significantly lower noise levels than diesel engines
Cleaner Working Environment - Improved air quality for ground personnel and passengers

These environmental benefits align with global aviation sustainability goals and regulatory requirements.

Our battery-powered eGPUs exemplify these advantages, with no direct CO2 or NOx emissions into the working environment. They operate almost silently, significantly reducing noise levels at gates, in hangars, or wherever they're deployed — benefiting ground handlers, passengers, and airport neighbors alike.

Operational Advantages

Beyond environmental considerations, eGSE delivers substantial operational benefits:

Lower Maintenance Requirements - Fewer moving parts means reduced wear and tear
Improved Reliability - Electric motors offer consistent performance with fewer breakdowns
Enhanced Efficiency - easy movement and more precise control
Simplified Operation - User-friendly interfaces and operating procedures

These operational advantages translate into more efficient ground handling processes and improved aircraft turnaround times.

Economic Benefits

The financial case for eGSE continues to strengthen as technology advances:

Reduced Operating Costs - Lower energy and maintenance expenses
Extended Equipment Lifespan - Durable components with lower replacement needs
Decreasing Battery Costs - Ongoing improvements in battery technology reduce overall expenses
Potential Incentives - Government and regulatory support for emission reduction initiatives

While initial investment costs may be higher than traditional equipment, the total cost of ownership often favors electrical alternatives over the equipment's lifetime.

Infrastructure Requirements

Effective eGSE deployment depends on appropriate supporting infrastructure:

Charging Stations - Strategically located to support operational needs
Power Distribution - Sufficient electrical capacity to support charging needs
Facility Modifications - Potential updates to maintenance facilities and operational areas

Comprehensive infrastructure planning is essential for maximizing the benefits of eGSE implementation.

We understand that charging infrastructure can be a challenge for eGSE adoption. That's why we've developed innovative charging solutions like our DC Charger and Power Share technology, which allows you to charge eGPUs or other AC units using excess power from existing 400 Hz or PCA equipment — without needing to upgrade your gate infrastructure. Our dedicated team can help you evaluate your current setup and identify the most efficient ways to implement eGSE within your existing infrastructure.

Phased Implementation Strategies

Most airports and airlines adopt phased approaches to eGSE implementation:

Assessment - Evaluating current operations and identifying priority areas
Pilot Programs - Testing electrical alternatives in limited operational contexts
Scaled Deployment - Expanding successful implementations across operations
Continuous Improvement - Ongoing refinement of equipment and procedures

This measured approach allows for learning and adaptation throughout the implementation process.

Training and Adaptation

The transition to electrical equipment requires updated skills and procedures:

Operator Training - Familiarization with new equipment features and capabilities
Maintenance Training - Specialized knowledge for servicing electrical systems
Operational Adjustments - Modified procedures to accommodate charging cycles and equipment capabilities

Investing in comprehensive training programs ensures a smooth transition to electrical alternatives

Visit the Training Academy

Technological Advancements

Ongoing innovations are enhancing eGSE capabilities:

Battery Technology - Improvements in energy density, charging speed, and cycle life
Smart Systems - Integration of IoT capabilities for predictive maintenance and operational optimization
Automatic Features - Increasing automation of routine ground handling tasks
Alternative Power Sources - Exploration of hydrogen fuel cells and other energy technologies

These advancements will continue to expand the capabilities and applications of electrical ground support equipment.

Industry Adoption Trends

The adoption of eGSE continues to accelerate:

Regulatory Pressures - Increasing requirements for emission reductions at airports
Corporate Sustainability Goals - Aviation industry commitments to carbon reduction
Passenger Expectations - Growing demand for environmentally responsible air travel
Competitive Advantages - Operational efficiencies creating market differentiation

These converging factors are driving widespread adoption across the aviation industry.

Choosing the Right Electrical Ground Support Equipment

Selecting the appropriate eGSE requires careful consideration of several key factors:

Operational Requirements - Matching equipment capabilities to specific needs
Climate Considerations - Ensuring performance in local weather conditions
Integration with Existing Systems - Compatibility with current equipment and procedures
Long-term Sustainability Goals - Alignment with organizational environmental objectives
Total Cost of Ownership - Comprehensive financial analysis beyond initial purchase price

Thorough evaluation of these factors ensures optimal equipment selection for specific operational contexts.

Flexible Acquisition Options for eGSE

We understand that transitioning to electrical ground support equipment represents a significant investment. To facilitate this transition, we offer flexible acquisition options to match your operational and financial requirements.

Power by the Hour Subscription

Our innovative "Power by the Hour" subscription plan provides instant access to green equipment without major capital investment. This flexible approach is:

More adaptable than traditional leasing arrangements
Easily scalable to match your changing operational needs
An effective way to accelerate your sustainable development

This subscription plan allows you to integrate cutting-edge eGSE technology into your operations while managing costs predictably and efficiently.

The Growing Popularity of eGSE

A recent industry survey from March 2024 revealed that nearly 80% of respondents view eGSE as moderately or extremely viable for ground handling's future, with approximately 65% planning to adopt eGSE within the next five years.

The main drivers for eGSE adoption include:

Sustainability initiatives
Industry regulations and mandates
New technology advancements
Enhanced safety features
Favorable total cost of ownership

As eGSE continues to gain traction across the aviation industry, we remain committed to supporting this transition with innovative, reliable solutions.

Contact Us for eGSE Solutions

As the leading supplier of Ground Power Units, Pre-Conditioned Air Units, Cables, and Hoses, we are committed to providing the cleanest, most reliable, and cost-efficient GSE systems for the aviation industry. Our comprehensive range of electrical ground support equipment offers innovative solutions for modern aviation challenges:

Clean: Our eGSE solutions create cleaner and quieter operations — benefiting your staff and the environment
Reliable: Our equipment is tried and tested in all environments — from the Arctic to the desert
Cost-efficient: Our smart and innovative products reduce your total cost of ownership

For more information about our eGSE options and how they can benefit your operations, please contact our expert team today. Whether you're looking for product specifications, implementation strategies, or financing options, we're here to help you navigate the transition to electrical ground support equipment.