Victron Isolation Transformers

Indispensable in professional marine energy systems, the Isolation Transformer eliminates any electrical continuity between shore power and the boat. The shore power is fed to the primary side of the transformer and the ship is connected to the secondary. The Isolation Transformer completely isolates the boat from the shore ground. By connecting all metal parts to the neutral output on the secondary side of the transformer, a GFCI will trip or a fuse will blow in case of a short circuit. It is essential for safety and eliminates the need for galvanic isolators and polarity alarms.

Soft start is a standard feature of a Victron Energy isolation transformer. It will prevent the shore power fuse from blowing due to the inrush current of the transformer, which would otherwise occur. It is also recommended, for optimal safety, to connect the secondary neutral of the transformer to ground when the boat is out of the water.

Galvanic Corrosion
This occurs when two dissimilar metals in electrical contact are simultaneously exposed to an electrically conducting fluid. Seawater and, to a lesser extent, fresh water are such fluids. In general, the more active alloy of the couple corrodes preferentially while the less active (more noble) material is cathodically protected. The rate of galvanic corrosion is a function of several variables including area ratios, conductivity of the fluid, temperature, nature of the materials, etc.

The best solution to avoid galvanic corrosion and at the same time prevent any unsafe situation is to install an Isolation Transformer to connect to the shore-side supply.

Automatic Switching
Model #ITR050362041, 3600W includes automatic switching. This model will automatically switch between 115 V and 230 V power supply, depending on input voltage. For power supply between 88 – 130V, it will switch to 115V supply. For power supply between 185 – 250V, it will switch to 230V supply.

What is a Victron isolation transformer?

The Isolation Transformer removes all electrical connections between AC shore power and the boat. It is crucial for safety and removes the necessity for galvanic isolators and polarity alarms. Safety is assumed in the case of a typical on-shore installation.

Is an isolation transformer necessary?

The primary role of an isolation transformer is to remove voltage spikes from supply lines, which can result in service disruptions or equipment damage if they reach the load. Placing an isolation transformer between power supply lines can minimize voltage spikes before they reach the load.