53
Systems
As part of the AC boat circuitry the green ground wire
takes a different path. It enters via the boat’s shore power
inlet and travels to a galvanic isolator. See the illustra-
tion.
A 60 amp (60 hertz) galvanic isolator for domestic use is
connected in series with the AC grounding “green” wire.
Overseas boats use a 30 amp (50 hertz) galvanic isolator.
The purpose of the galvanic isolator is to isolate the
boat’s grounding system
electrically from the dock
and other vessels below
1.4 volts but to maintain
a connection to the shore
green ground at high
voltage potentials. The
low voltage isolation will prevent the vessel’s zinc from
protecting the underwater metal hardware on another
vessel sharing the same AC common green ground wire.
This eliminates the possibility of galvanic interaction
from other boats on the same dock circuit and permits
your anodes to protect your boat. The green ground or
“bonding wire” runs from the boat’s shore power inlet to
a galvanic isolator stud. From the other stud of the gal-
vanic isolator it runs to the AC ground buss located be-
hind the AC main ship’s control panel in the salon. Note
that the stud nuts must be torqued and maintained at 8.8
inch pounds.
Since the galvanic isolator is not polarized either termi-
nal can be used for the inlet or outlet side for the green
grounding wire. See the illustration.
There is a fan located at the right side of the isolator
identifi ed by an array of ventilation holes. If you ever
hear the fan running the isolator has failed. Disconnect
the shore power from the boat and check the system. Call
your closest Regal dealer for more information.
Do not store objects close to the isolator that might in-
hibit air fl ow to the fan.
Note that the galvanic isolator system is also used in boats
using the 50 amp main breaker (no ELCI). Normally the
galvanic isolator is found in the engine room sometimes
called the bilge or sump.
TYPICAL GALVANIC ISOLATOR
Precautions/Galvanic Isolator Warnings
Warning- It is extremely dangerous to swim or be in the
marina water due to potential AC current that may be
present in the water. Take all necessary prcautions as this
may be life threatening.
Caution- This device does not provide a status monitor.
Following a lightning strike this unit may not continue to
provide galvanic isolation protection.
Warning: The fan will operate only when there is a fault
to ground and the isolator is conducting current. If you
notice the fan running immediately disconnect the shore
power and contact a qualifi ed marine electrician to isolate
and repair the problem with the boat or the shore power
connection. Remember, never cover the fan holes.
Caution: Never test the isolator. Troubleshooting the gal-
vanic isolator shall be done by qualifi ed personnel only.
Typical Isolator Wiring
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