Engineering · 31.10.2015

As previously described, we intended to replace the old alternator with a high performance model which can withstand extended periods of high loads (the LiFePO4 bank will absorb any current you throw at it, overloading most standard alternators quickly) and also produces as much energy as possible to allow us recharging our battery quickly. After some research and excellent consulting from Richard (RJS Marine) we decided to try the Balmar AT165 alternator (the red component), a very nice design...

Engineering · 18.05.2015

2016-06-30 Update: As Jim pointed out in the comments - and which was meanwhile confirmed by Balmar support - the Digital Duo is not a DC/DC charger, it is rather a switching device which will not step up voltage and hence lead to undercharging the starter battery. This device was replaced by a Sterling Pro Charge B BBW 1212 (more or less a drop-in-replacement). 2019-12-13 Update: Today I would choose the smallest Victron "Orion-Tr Smart DC-DC Charger Isolated" charger. Advantages: much smaller...

Engineering · 04.05.2015

Most sailing boats come with two standard charging sources for their batteries: shore power charger alternator Our boat was no different, the Yanmar engine was equipped with a standard Hitachi 80 A alternator (see picture), and for charging in the marina two 40 A Cristec chargers connected in parallel to charge both starter and service batteries. A classic "no frills" setup, that is. The stock alternator was internally regulated and had no over temperature protection (as far as we could find...

Engineering · 03.05.2015

Batteries form the heart of a cruising boat energy management solution. Choosing the right battery type can help a lot in increasing the overall usability of the system. When planning for a proper solution one crucial question about the storage technology is the battery choice. Our used Beneteau Sense 43 came equipped with four 100 Ah lead acid batteries as house bank, 90 Ah starter battery and traditional basic charging equipment: stock Hitachi alternator, two Cristec OEM chargers in parallel,...

Engineering · 01.05.2015

A reliable and continuous supply of electric energy is not only necessary for convenience reasons (although it is nice to always have a cold fridge...) but it is actually a critical requirement to assure safety of boat and crew when cruising. Navigation lights, instruments, positioning devices and communication do not work without electricity. Check out discussion forums, magazines, books or simply talk to people who live on their boat. It's a common theme - many cruisers struggle with proper...