Description
Victron VDI-32A Galvanic Isolator | Boat Supply Store
Protect your vessel's underwater metal components from accelerated corrosion caused by dissimilar metal contact and shore power connections. The Victron Galvanic Isolator VDI-32A employs a robust dual-diode system, blocking stray DC currents that induce electrolytic corrosion when voltages exceed approximately 1.4 Vdc. Its fully potted, waterproof construction ensures durability and reliability in harsh marine environments, safeguarding your hull, shaft, and propeller. This 32A-rated isolator is suitable for 120V-230V AC shore power systems, providing essential protection for vessels operating in saltwater or brackish conditions.
Key Features
- Prevents electrolytic corrosion of underwater metals
- Blocks low voltage DC currents from shore power earth wire
- Utilizes two diodes connected in anti-parallel
- Conducts above a threshold voltage of approximately 1.4 Vdc
- Waterproof and potted for enhanced durability
- Suitable for 120V - 230V AC shore power
- Features 6mm (1/4 inch) terminal posts
- Ensures longevity of critical underwater components
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Victron Energy |
| Model | VDI-32A |
| Max Current Rating | 32A |
| Waterproof | Yes (Potted) |
| Diodes | Dual Diode (Anti-parallel) |
| Threshold Voltage | approx. 1.4 Vdc |
| AC System Compatibility | 120V - 230V |
| Terminal Post Size | 6mm (1/4 inch) |
| MPN | GDI000032000 |
Who This Is For
Boat owners with underwater metal components (hull, propeller, shaft, etc.) connected to shore power, who want to prevent electrolytic corrosion and protect their vessel's integrity.
How It Compares
| Feature | Victron VDI-32A Galvanic Isolator | Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| Max Current Rating | 32A | 30A |
| Waterproof | Yes (Potted) | Yes |
| Diodes | Dual Diode (Anti-parallel) | Dual Diode |
| ABYC A-28 Approval | No | No |
Common Concerns Answered
Is the Victron VDI-32A ABYC A-28 approved?
The Victron Galvanic Isolator VDI-32A is not ABYC A-28 approved. While some users may prefer ABYC compliance, this isolator offers robust protection against galvanic corrosion with its effective dual-diode system.
Why is this isolator more expensive than some others?
The Victron VDI-32A's higher price point reflects its premium, fully potted, and waterproof construction, designed for superior durability and long-term performance in demanding marine environments. This ensures greater reliability and protection for your vessel's underwater metals.
Will this isolator still allow my GFCI or RCD to function?
Yes, the Victron Galvanic Isolator VDI-32A is designed to block low-voltage DC currents that cause galvanic corrosion without interfering with the proper operation of residual-current devices (RCDs) or ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) during fault conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a galvanic isolator and why do I need one?
A galvanic isolator prevents galvanic corrosion, which occurs when dissimilar metals in contact with an electrolyte (like saltwater) create an electrical current. This current corrodes the less noble metal. You need one if your boat has underwater metal components connected to shore power, as shore power can introduce stray DC currents that accelerate this corrosion.
How does the Victron Galvanic Isolator VDI-32A work?
It utilizes two diodes connected in anti-parallel. These diodes effectively block low-voltage DC currents flowing through the shore power earth wire. Current only flows through the diodes if the voltage difference between the boat's underwater metals and the shore ground exceeds approximately 1.4 Vdc, thus preventing electrolytic corrosion.
What types of corrosion does this isolator prevent?
This isolator specifically prevents electrolytic corrosion, which is driven by galvanic action between dissimilar metals when connected via an electrical path. This is crucial for protecting components like your boat's hull, propeller, rudder, and engine shaft from degradation.
Is this galvanic isolator waterproof?
Yes, the Victron Galvanic Isolator VDI-32A is fully potted and waterproof, ensuring its durability and reliable operation even when exposed to the elements and moisture commonly found on a boat.
What is the maximum current rating for this isolator?
The Victron Galvanic Isolator VDI-32A has a maximum continuous current rating of 32 Amps, making it suitable for a wide range of shore power connections.
