Victron Energy Galvanic Isolator VDI-16A, 16 Amp Waterproof Potted

Galvanic Isolator VDI-16A, 16 AMP Max Waterproof Potted

The galvanic isolator prevents electrolytic corrosion. It blocks low-voltage DC currents that enter your boat via the shore power earth wire. These currents can cause corrosion to the boats underwater metals, like the hull, propeller, shaft, and so on.

The galvanic isolator consists internally of two diodes which are connected in an anti-parallel fashion. When they are connected in this way, the diodes allow current in both directions but only above a certain threshold voltage. The voltage at which diodes conduct is about 1.4 Vdc.

The isolator is installed directly behind your boats 120V - 230V connection. The forward voltage from the galvanic isolator is higher than the potential difference between metals. As a result, this voltage will not allow conduction and as such, the galvanic isolator will prevent any electrolytic current. However, if there is a (higher) error voltage in the AC circuit, the diodes will allow current through and the residual-current device will break the circuit.

The Victron Energy Galvanic Isolator VDI-16A is designed to protect your boat from electrolytic corrosion caused by stray DC currents entering through shore power connections. This robust, waterproof potted unit prevents damage to underwater metals such as hulls, propellers, and shafts by blocking low-voltage DC currents that can accelerate corrosion processes. Its compact and durable design makes it suitable for marine environments where reliability and longevity are crucial. The isolator features internal diodes connected in an anti-parallel configuration, allowing current flow in both directions only above a threshold voltage of approximately 1.4 Vdc. This ensures that normal potential differences do not cause conduction, while preventing harmful currents from damaging your vessel's underwater metals. The device is installed directly behind your boat’s 120V-230V connection, where it effectively intercepts stray currents before they can cause corrosion. When an abnormal error voltage is present, the diodes permit current flow, triggering the residual-current device to break the circuit and protect your boat. This galvanic isolator is rated for a maximum of 16 amps, ensuring ample capacity for typical marine electrical systems. Its waterproof and potted design guarantees durability in harsh marine conditions, providing peace of mind during prolonged use. Proper installation and maintenance are essential for optimal performance, and detailed guidance can be found in the product's owner’s manual linked here: victron energy galvanic isolator manual. Whether you're a professional installer or a boat owner, the Victron Energy VDI-16A offers a reliable solution to prevent electrolytic corrosion, extending the lifespan of your vessel’s underwater components and ensuring safer, corrosion-free boating experiences.

Features:

• Maximum current capacity of 16 amps suitable for marine electrical systems

• Waterproof potted design for durability in harsh marine environments

• Internal diodes arranged in an anti-parallel configuration allowing bidirectional current flow above 1.4 Vdc

• Protects underwater metals such as hulls, propellers, and shafts from electrolytic corrosion

• Installed directly behind boat’s 120V - 230V power connection for effective current blocking

• Prevents low-voltage DC currents from entering via shore power earth wire

• Automatic circuit disconnection during abnormal error voltage conditions