Victron Galvanic Isolator: Advanced Electrolytic Corrosion Protection for Marine Vessels

Engineered to Block Stray DC Currents and Preserve Underwater Metals

The Victron Galvanic Isolator is a critical component for any vessel connected to shore power, designed to prevent electrolytic corrosion of underwater metals such as the hull, propeller, shaft, and through-hull fittings. By installing this device in series with the protective earth conductor between the shore supply and the boat’s grounding system, you effectively block low-voltage DC galvanic currents that would otherwise flow through the water, causing accelerated corrosion. Unlike generic isolators that may fail under fault conditions, the Victron unit uses robust internal diodes in an anti-parallel configuration, ensuring reliable isolation during normal operation while automatically conducting during AC fault currents to maintain safety.

How It Works: Reliable Diode-Based Isolation

At the core of the Victron Galvanic Isolator are high-capacity diodes that block DC voltages up to approximately 1.4 V. This threshold is higher than the naturally occurring potential differences between dissimilar underwater metals, effectively stopping corrosive currents. In the event of an AC fault, the diodes conduct, allowing the fault current to flow and trip the upstream residual-current device (RCD) or circuit breaker, ensuring personal safety and compliance with marine electrical standards. The fully potted, waterproof construction (IP67) protects internal electronics from moisture, salt spray, and condensation, making it suitable for installation in engine rooms, lazarettes, and other harsh marine environments.

Key Features

• Blocks galvanic corrosion currents Prevents DC leakage via the shore earth connection, protecting underwater metals
• High peak current withstand Handles transient fault currents up to 3200 A (20 ms), ensuring durability during short circuits
• Continuous current rating Supports up to 32 A, matching typical shore power demands
• IP67 waterproof and fully potted Resistant to moisture ingress, ideal for marine and coastal installations
• Anodised aluminium heat sink Passive cooling design dissipates heat efficiently, no fans required
• Simple two-stud connection M6 (approx. 1/4″) stud terminals for secure, low-resistance wiring
• Compact and robust Dimensions 63 x 164 x 200 mm, weight 2 kg, with integrated mounting slots
• Compliant with marine standards Meets relevant safety and EMC requirements for onboard use

Why Choose a Victron Galvanic Isolator?

Many boat owners underestimate the risk of galvanic corrosion until costly damage appears. A shore power connection, while convenient, creates a conductive path between your vessel and neighbouring boats or the marina’s metal structures. Without isolation, even small DC voltages can drive destructive currents through the water. The Victron Galvanic Isolator breaks this path for DC while preserving the safety earth for AC faults. Its robust design, with a peak current rating far exceeding typical fault levels, ensures it will not fail when needed most. The anodised aluminium enclosure provides excellent heat dissipation, maintaining performance even under sustained high currents. Installation is straightforward: mount the isolator close to the shore power inlet, connect the shore earth to one stud and the boat’s earth to the other, and secure the wiring with appropriate lugs. No ongoing maintenance is required.

Applications

This galvanic isolator is suitable for a wide range of vessels, from small pleasure craft to larger yachts and commercial boats, wherever a shore power connection is used. It is particularly valuable in marinas with high electrical activity, where stray currents are common. Whether you are fitting out a new build or retrofitting an existing electrical system, the Victron Galvanic Isolator provides peace of mind by protecting your investment against hidden corrosion.

Note: For optimal protection, ensure your vessel’s anodes are in good condition and regularly inspected. The galvanic isolator works in conjunction with, not as a replacement for, sacrificial anodes.

Secure Your Vessel’s Underwater Metals Today

Don’t let electrolytic corrosion compromise your boat’s integrity. Install a Victron Galvanic Isolator and sail with confidence, knowing your underwater metals are protected. Order now or contact our team for expert advice on integrating this essential device into your marine electrical system.