Victron Energy Galvanic Isolator VDI-32A

The Victron Energy Galvanic Isolator VDI-32A protects boat hulls, marina pontoons and shore-connected vessels from galvanic corrosion caused by stray DC currents travelling through the shore power earth conductor. It is designed for marine shore power installations where a continuous earth connection is required for safety but galvanic current flow must be blocked.

Key Features

• Rated at 32A continuous current, suitable for single-phase shore power connections up to 32A.
• Blocks DC galvanic currents while maintaining a safe AC earth path in compliance with shore power wiring requirements.
• Uses a dual blocking diode arrangement to prevent galvanic current flow in both directions without interrupting the protective earth.
• Compact, robust enclosure weighing 2.3 kg, suitable for installation in engine rooms and electrical panels aboard vessels.
• Manufactured by Victron Energy, a recognised supplier of marine and off-grid electrical equipment.
• SKU: GDI000032000 | GTIN: 8719076022381

Product Overview

When a vessel is connected to shore power, the earth conductor creates a continuous metallic path between the boat and the marina's earthing system. Where multiple vessels share the same marina earth, small DC voltage differences between boats cause galvanic currents to flow. Over time, these currents cause accelerated corrosion of underwater metalwork including propellers, shafts, anodes and hull fittings. The VDI-32A is wired into the shore power earth conductor to block these DC currents at source.

The isolator uses a back-to-back diode configuration. Under normal AC fault conditions, the diodes conduct and the protective earth remains fully functional, preserving the safety integrity of the shore power circuit. Under the low-level DC conditions that drive galvanic corrosion, the diodes block current flow. This approach meets the requirements of standards that prohibit the use of simple isolating switches or fuses in the earth conductor of a shore power circuit.

At 32A, the VDI-32A is rated for the most common shore power circuit size used in European marinas. It is a passive device requiring no power supply, control wiring or commissioning beyond correct installation in the earth conductor.

Specifications

• Model: Galvanic Isolator VDI-32A
• SKU: GDI000032000
• GTIN: 8719076022381
• Continuous current rating: 32A
• Weight: 2.3 kg
• Manufacturer: Victron Energy

Applications

• Sailing yachts and motor cruisers connected to marina shore power.
• Canal boats and narrowboats on shore power hookup at marinas or moorings.
• Commercial vessels requiring galvanic protection at berth.
• Marina electrical installations where multiple vessels share a common earth.

What Is Included

• 1 x Victron Energy Galvanic Isolator VDI-32A

Installation Notes

The VDI-32A must be installed by a qualified marine electrician in accordance with the relevant shore power wiring standards for your vessel type and flag state. The isolator is wired into the shore power earth conductor only. Incorrect installation in the live or neutral conductors will create a serious safety hazard. Do not install any switching device, fuse or circuit breaker in series with the earth conductor in place of or alongside this unit without confirming compliance with applicable standards. Verify that the shore power circuit is rated at 32A or below before installation.