Description
12 kVA Isolation Transformer for Boats | Boat Supply Store
Prevent catastrophic galvanic corrosion and protect sensitive onboard electronics from shore power disturbances with this 12 kVA isolation transformer. Engineered for direct replacement of Charles IsoG2 units, it provides a robust 120 VAC output at 30 A and 60 Hz, ensuring stable AC power delivery. Its ignition-protected design, meeting UL 1500 and ABYC C-1500 standards, makes it suitable for gasoline-powered vessels navigating the Intracoastal Waterway, enhancing overall vessel safety.
Key Features
- Direct Replacement for existing Charles IsoG2 installations, simplifying upgrades.
- Galvanic Corrosion Protection safeguards vessel under-fittings from destructive electrolytic action.
- Superior Electronics Shielding protects sensitive onboard equipment from reverse polarity and shore power anomalies.
- Ignition Protected design, certified to UL 1500 and ABYC C-1500, ensures safety on gasoline-powered vessels.
- Complete Electrical Isolation eliminates nuisance dockside ELCI breaker trips.
- Enhanced Safety mitigates the risk of Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) for a safer marine environment.
- Stable AC Power ensures reliable operation of all on-board electrical equipment.
- Code Compliance meets the latest NEC 555.35 marina electrical code requirements.
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| kVA Rating | 12 kVA |
| Input Voltage | 120 VAC |
| Output Voltage | 120 VAC |
| Amperage | 30 A |
| Frequency | 60 Hz |
| Ignition Protection | Yes |
| ABYC Compliance | E-11 and C-1500 |
| UL Certifications | UL 1500 and UL 1561 |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 21.6 cm x 21.6 cm x 26.7 cm |
| Dimensions with Flange (H x W x D) | 21.6 cm x 27.4 cm x 26.7 cm |
| Weight | 55 lbs |
Who This Is For
Boat owners and marine electricians seeking to upgrade their vessel's electrical safety and protect sensitive onboard systems from shore power issues and galvanic corrosion. This unit is particularly beneficial for vessels with gasoline engines or those requiring strict adherence to marine electrical codes.
How It Compares
| Feature | 12 kVA Isolation Transformer for Boats | Charles Industries Iso |
|---|---|---|
| kVA Rating | 12 kVA | 6 kVA, 10 kVA |
| Input Voltage | 120 VAC | 120/240 VAC, 120/240 VAC |
| Output Voltage | 120 VAC | 120/240 VAC, 120/240 VAC |
| Ignition Protection | Yes | Yes, Not explicitly stated as a primary feature |
| Direct Charles IsoG2 Replacement | Yes | No, No |
| Meets NEC 555.35 | Yes | Likely, but not explicitly stated as a primary feature, Likely, but not explicitly stated as a primary feature |
Common Concerns Answered
What if I'm not an electrician?
Installation requires a solid understanding of marine AC wiring, grounding principles, and safety protocols. Due to the critical nature of electrical systems, professional installation by a certified marine electrician is strongly recommended to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Is the initial cost worth it?
While the upfront investment for a high-capacity isolation transformer is higher than basic galvanic isolators, the long-term benefits are substantial. It effectively prevents costly corrosion damage to underwater components and protects expensive onboard electronics, often yielding a greater return on investment over time.
My boat has gasoline engines; is this safe?
Absolutely. This ASEA Power Systems 12 kVA Isolation Transformer features ignition protection certified to UL 1500 and ABYC C-1500 standards, making it specifically designed and safe for use on gasoline-powered vessels, mitigating the risk of ignition in hazardous environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an isolation transformer and why do I need one on my boat?
An isolation transformer electrically separates your boat's AC system from the shore power source. This prevents galvanic corrosion by eliminating the direct metallic path for stray currents and also shields your onboard electronics from voltage fluctuations, ground faults, and reverse polarity issues originating from the dockside power.
How does the ASEA Power Systems 12 kVA Isolation Transformer protect against galvanic corrosion?
By creating a complete electrical separation between the shore power ground and the vessel's bonding system, the transformer interrupts the flow of stray DC and AC currents that cause galvanic corrosion. This protects critical underwater metal components like shafts, propellers, and thru-hulls from electrolytic degradation.
Can this transformer be used on gasoline-powered vessels?
Yes. The ASEA Power Systems 12 kVA Isolation Transformer is ignition-protected, meeting UL 1500 and ABYC C-1500 certifications, which is a critical safety requirement for gasoline-powered boats. This prevents the transformer from becoming an ignition source in the presence of flammable fuel vapors.
What are the benefits of using an isolation transformer for onboard electronics?
Isolation transformers provide a clean and stable AC power source, shielding sensitive electronics like navigation systems, autopilots, and entertainment systems from damaging voltage spikes, surges, and electrical noise that can originate from shore power connections or other onboard equipment.
Does this transformer meet current marine electrical codes?
Yes, this transformer meets the latest NEC 555.35 marina code requirements. It also carries ABYC E-11 and ABYC C-1500 compliance, along with UL 1500 and UL 1561 certifications, ensuring it adheres to stringent safety and performance standards for marine electrical installations.
