[Rhodes22-list] Galvanic corrosion

[Mark Kaynor]

Bob,

I'd actually prefer an isolation xfmr, but a new Charles 3.8 KVA unit rated
for marine use at 32 amps starts at around $750 (on sale!), weighs in at 70
lbs, and is 12"x12"x10". For my needs, the 1 lb. 2"x4"x3" galvanic isolator
works well enough, is easier to install, considerably cheaper, and uses less
valuable space.

An isolation xfmr on the dock would be great while we're at this marina, but
if we travel and decide to stay at some other marina for a period of time,
having one installed at our home marina won't be much good to us <g>.

Mark

-----Original Message-----
From: rhodes22-list-bounces at rhodes22.org
[mailto:rhodes22-list-bounces at rhodes22.org]On Behalf Of Robert Skinner
Sent: Monday, June 28, 2004 12:57 PM
To: The Rhodes 22 mail list
Subject: Re: [Rhodes22-list] Galvanic corrosion


Mark Kaynor wrote:
> ...
> Now that we've got the Tayana and have her docked at a marina w/ water and
> electricity, and have sacrificial zincs to maintain (everywhere, it
seems),
> I've decided to install a galvanic isolator on our incoming AC ground.
> ...
> We$t Marine has a 30A Guest w/ monitoring for $240. I just ordered one on
> eBay, same thing, new, for $133. We'll see how it goes.

Mark -

Please pardon my ignorance.  I'm truly in over my
head here.

I need some help understanding why you wouldn't
use an isolation transformer on the dock to remove
all DC paths to shore power, setting up a separate
ground within the boat's own circuitry to avoid
boat-to-shore loops.

Or is that what you are actually doing but under
another name?

Thanks for input from Mark or any other with
knowledge in this matter,
--
Robert W. Skinner CDP, "Squirrel Haven"
9 Gateway Commons, Gorham, ME 04038-1331

__________________________________________________
Use Rhodes22-list at rhodes22.org, Help? www.rhodes22.org/list