Description
Newmar GI-60-FS Galvanic Isolator | Boat Supply Store
Prevent destructive galvanic corrosion on your vessel's underwater metal components with the Newmar GI-60-FS Fail-Safe Galvanic Isolator. This critical device is engineered to protect metallic through-hull fittings, engines, and shafts by blocking low-voltage stray currents that accelerate metal degradation, particularly in saltwater environments. It provides up to 1.4 VDC stray current protection and boasts a robust 5000 Amp maximum short circuit rating, ensuring both safety and longevity for your boat's electrical system.
Key Features
- Prevents galvanic corrosion by blocking stray currents.
- Maintains critical safety ground path integrity.
- Significantly reduces galvanic corrosion on sacrificial anodes.
- Fail-safe design ensures ground continuity even if the isolator fails.
- Meets stringent ABYC A-28 2019 requirements for marine safety.
- Certified to UL1500 standard for ignition protection.
- Protects against electrochemical degradation of submerged metals.
- Ensures a safe electrical environment by mitigating corrosion risks.
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Amperage Rating | 60A |
| AC Shore Power Voltage | 115-230V |
| Stray Current Protection | Up to 1.4 VDC |
| Maximum Short Circuit Rating | 5000 Amp |
| Dimensions | 260 x 190 x 65 mm |
| Certification | UL1500 |
| Ambient Temperature Rating | Tested to 50°C |
Who This Is For
Boaters with metallic through-hull fittings and underwater metal components connected to AC safety ground and DC bonding systems, especially those operating in saltwater, who need to prevent galvanic corrosion and ensure electrical safety.
How It Compares
| Feature | Newmar GI-60-FS Galvanic Isolator | ProMariner GI |
|---|---|---|
| Amperage Rating | 60A | 60A |
| Fail-Safe Design | Yes | Yes |
| ABYC A-28 Compliance | Yes | Yes |
| UL1500 Certification | Yes | Yes |
| Stray Current Protection | Up to 1.4 VDC | Up to 1.4 VDC |
Common Concerns Answered
What is a galvanic isolator and why do I need one?
A galvanic isolator is a marine safety device that prevents galvanic corrosion, a destructive electrochemical process that occurs when dissimilar metals are in electrical contact in the presence of an electrolyte like saltwater. Without one, stray DC or AC currents from shore power can cause rapid degradation of your boat's underwater metals, leading to costly repairs and compromised structural integrity. This unit is essential for any boat with metallic through-hull fittings.
I've heard galvanic isolators can fail. How does the Newmar GI-60-FS address this?
The Newmar GI-60-FS features a 'fail-safe' design, which is a critical distinction. This means that even if the internal components of the isolator were to somehow fail, the unit is engineered to maintain a continuous, direct connection for the essential safety ground path. This ensures your boat's safety ground remains intact, providing an unparalleled level of protection against both electrical hazards and galvanic corrosion.
Is the initial cost of this unit worth the investment?
The peace of mind and long-term cost savings provided by the Newmar GI-60-FS far outweigh its initial investment. By effectively preventing galvanic corrosion, you significantly extend the lifespan of sacrificial anodes (zincs), reduce the frequency and cost of haul-outs for inspection and repair, and protect expensive underwater hardware like propellers and shafts from premature failure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Newmar GI-60-FS protect my boat from galvanic corrosion?
It blocks the flow of low-voltage DC stray currents that cause galvanic corrosion between dissimilar metals connected to the boat's bonding system and shore power. It uses diodes to allow AC fault current to pass to ground while blocking the problematic DC currents.
What does 'fail-safe' mean in the context of this galvanic isolator?
'Fail-safe' signifies that should the isolator's internal components fail, it is designed to maintain the integrity of the critical safety ground path. This ensures that the boat's AC safety ground remains connected, preventing a loss of protection for both electrical safety and corrosion prevention.
Is the Newmar GI-60-FS compliant with ABYC standards?
Yes, the Newmar GI-60-FS is designed and certified to meet the latest ABYC A-28 2019 standards for galvanic isolators, ensuring it adheres to the most current safety and performance guidelines for marine electrical systems.
What is the maximum AC shore power voltage this isolator can handle?
The Newmar GI-60-FS is rated for use with both 115V and 230V AC shore power systems, providing versatile application across a wide range of electrical configurations.
What happens if the isolator fails? Does it still maintain the safety ground?
Yes, the 'fail-safe' design of the GI-60-FS is specifically engineered to maintain the critical safety ground path even in the event of an internal isolator failure. This ensures continuous protection.
