Definitions
Single-pole system
In a single-pole system the actual engine block is
used
as the negative ground return for all components
on the engine block.
Two-pole system
In a two-pole system each electrical component on
the engine has an insulated direct current ground
return. The alternator, starter motor and all sensors/
senders are electrically insulated from the engine
block and are supplied without a braided ground strap
installed between the starter motor and engine block.
The engine block is not connected to the battery neg-
ative terminal (-).
All IPS engines are two pole.
Isolation transformer
A transformer with galvanically separated input and
output windings.
The isolation transformer separates galvanic shore
power from the boat and reduces the risk for galvanic
corrosion and stray current corrosion as described in
ABYC circuit diagram 8 and text E-11.7.2.2.1.4 thru
5. Corrosion damage caused by stray currents will not
be compensated for under warranty.
Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)
A health and safety protection device, the GFCI cuts
the current to a circuit when current to ground
exceeds a predetermined value.
Spark generation between live conductors and
ground may occur at relatively low currents and will
not trip circuit breakers. Moreover, very low currents
may also constitute a danger for personnel. A GFCI
must be installed on the other side of the isolation
transformer as ground fault protection in the boat.
GFCI tripping sensitivity and tripping times must meet
local standards.
A GFCI located on the other side of the isolation trans-
former safeguards ground fault protection in the boat.
This is supplement to ABYC E-11 that ensures a
higher level of protection against electric shock.
Protection against electrochemical
corrosion
In order to avoid galvanic corrosion to underwater
components
such as hull fittings, swim ladders etc., it
is important that they be protected. Volvo Penta rec-
ommends connecting all components to a protection
anode (normally made of zinc) installed on the
transom. Trim tabs may have their own protection.
NOTICE! Normally, the system connecting individual
components must not have any contact with the neg-
ative circuit in the boat electrical system.
Local recommendations, e.g. ABYC, may state that
the battery negative terminal be connected to the gal-
vanic circuit. If the galvanic circuit is connected to the
battery negative terminal (-), the engine block must
also be connected by a cable of a capacity sufficient
to conduct current at engine start; refer to the descrip-
tion in ABYC chapter E-11.
IMPORTANT!
If there is a risk for galvanic corrosion and stray cur-
rent corrosion, an isolation transformer must be instal-
led.
Volvo Penta IPS drive units are manufactured in a
nickel aluminum bronze alloy and are protected
against corrosion by two anodes. One is installed in
the exhaust system (iron) and the other on the
transom (aluminum). The drive unit has an underwa-
ter surface area that exceeds 1 m
2
(10.8 ft
2
).
IMPORTANT!
The anodes must not be painted over.
IMPORTANT!
Do not connect Volvo Penta IPS units to each other.
IMPORTANT!
Do not connect the Volvo Penta IPS units to the
engine or any other components on board.
IMPORTANT!
Do not connect any other equipment to the Volvo
Penta IPS transom-mounted anode.
NOTICE! The above recommendations do not conflict
with ABYC E-11, in particular paragraphs 11.18.1 and
11.17.2.3.
IMPORTANT!
In steel and aluminum installations it is important to
ensure good insulation between the Volvo Penta IPS
unit and the hull. Volvo Penta disclaims responsibility
for any hull corrosion.
Arrangement and Planning, Electrochemical Corrosion
40 47704162 10-2014 © AB VOLVO PENTA
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