Victron Galvanic Isolator VDI-16
Victron Galvanic Isolator VDI-16
SKU:792-GDI000016000
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Victron Galvanic Isolator VDI-16
16A Rated | Shore Power Corrosion Protection | Marine & Off-Grid Systems
The Victron Galvanic Isolator VDI-16 is an essential safety and protection device designed for marine applications and other systems connected to external AC power sources. This isolator effectively prevents galvanic corrosion on boats and other metal structures by blocking low-voltage DC currents that can flow between the vessel's hull and the shore earth connection.
Internally, the VDI-16 features two diodes connected in an anti-parallel configuration. These diodes permit current flow in both directions, but only when the voltage exceeds a specific threshold, typically around 1.4 Vdc. This design ensures that small potential differences, which cause galvanic corrosion, are blocked, while higher fault currents in the AC circuit are allowed to pass, enabling residual-current devices (RCDs) to trip safely.
KEY FUNCTION: Prevents galvanic corrosion on boats by blocking stray DC currents from shore power connections, while maintaining AC safety.
Key Features
| ▶ Galvanic Corrosion Prevention — Blocks low-voltage DC currents to protect metal parts of your vessel from electrolytic degradation. |
| ▶ AC Safety Maintained — Allows higher AC fault currents to pass, ensuring your residual-current device (RCD) can operate correctly. |
| ▶ 16A Rated Current — Suitable for common 16 Amp shore power connections. |
| ▶ Robust Aluminium Enclosure — Provides durability and protection in marine environments. |
| ▶ Easy Integration — Designed for straightforward installation directly behind the shore power inlet. |
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | VDI-16 |
| Rated Current | 16A |
| Threshold Voltage | Approx. 1.4 Vdc |
| Nominal AC Voltage | 230V AC |
| Enclosure Material | Aluminium |
| Connections | Screw terminals |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 120 x 120 x 65 mm |
| Weight | 0.8 kg |
| Certifications | CE, ABYC A-28 |
Corrosion Protection Principles
Galvanic corrosion occurs when two dissimilar metals are immersed in an electrolyte (like seawater) and are electrically connected. On boats, this often happens when the vessel's underwater metal parts are connected to the shore power's earth line, creating a path for stray DC currents. The Victron Galvanic Isolator VDI-16 interrupts this DC path, effectively preventing the flow of corrosive currents.
By allowing only voltages above approximately 1.4 Vdc to pass, the isolator ensures that the small potential differences causing galvanic corrosion are blocked. However, in the event of a significant AC fault, the diodes will conduct, allowing the fault current to flow and trip the boat's RCD, thereby maintaining electrical safety.
Typical Applications
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Marine Vessels | Essential for boats, yachts, and other marine craft connected to shore power to prevent galvanic corrosion of propellers, shafts, and hull fittings. |
| Shore Power Connections | Installed at the point where the vessel connects to the marina's AC supply to isolate the boat's DC ground from the shore's ground. |
| Off-Grid & Mobile Systems | Can be used in certain off-grid or mobile setups where external AC power sources might introduce galvanic corrosion risks to connected metal structures. |
Built-In Protection Functions
The Victron Galvanic Isolator VDI-16 is designed to offer critical protection by preventing galvanic corrosion • It ensures that the integrity of your AC safety circuit is maintained by allowing fault currents to pass and trip RCDs • Its robust construction and adherence to standards like CE and ABYC A-28 underscore its reliability in demanding environments.
Common Questions
What is galvanic corrosion?
Galvanic corrosion is an electrochemical process where one metal corrodes preferentially when it is in electrical contact with another dissimilar metal, both immersed in an electrolyte (like seawater). This often occurs on boats connected to shore power.
How does the VDI-16 prevent corrosion?
The VDI-16 uses diodes that block low-voltage DC currents (up to approximately 1.4V) which are responsible for galvanic corrosion. This effectively breaks the DC electrical path between your boat and the shore ground, preventing the corrosive current flow.
Does it affect AC safety?
No, the VDI-16 is designed to maintain AC safety. In the event of a significant AC fault, the diodes will conduct, allowing the fault current to flow to earth and trip your boat's residual-current device (RCD), ensuring protection against electric shock.
Where should the VDI-16 be installed?
The galvanic isolator should be installed directly behind your boat's 230V shore power connection, typically between the shore power inlet and the main AC distribution panel.
Installation Notes
- Installation should be performed by a qualified marine electrician or competent person familiar with AC electrical systems on boats.
- Ensure the shore power supply is disconnected before commencing any installation work.
- Mount the isolator in a dry, accessible location, protected from direct water spray and excessive heat.
- Follow all local electrical codes and marine standards (e.g., ABYC) during installation.
- Verify all connections are secure and correctly wired according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Before You Buy
- Confirm the current rating (16A) matches your vessel's shore power connection requirements.
- Ensure you have adequate space for mounting the unit (120 x 120 x 65 mm).
- Consider professional installation to ensure correct wiring and compliance with marine electrical standards.
- This product is designed for 230V AC systems.
Always verify product specifications and compatibility with your existing system before purchase and installation. All information is based on manufacturer-supplied data.
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