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Boat Electrics
6 Lessons
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In this module, we will examine (high-output) alternators as a power source and how to choose the right type of alternator for your engine.
The videos for this module are still a work in progress. But you can access all the content in the form of lecture notes.
Video Module
We learn why the output of an alternator might be significantly lower in real life than its rated output and the implication this has for choosing the right model.
Video Module
We look at different mounting options for alternators and how to determine the right pulley ratio for optimal output depending on the model of engine and alternator.
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We explain how to estimate the additional load of a high-output alternator to find out if the engine can handle it without overload.
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We learn about the various types of belts and how to ensure effective transmission of the engine's power to the alternator without belt slip.
Video Module
We take a brief look at the wiring requirements for alternators, in particular with respect to the required ampacity of the conductors when run inside the engine compartment.
Video Module
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This course has been created in a joint effort by Nigel Calder and Dr. Jan Athenstädt. Nigel is responsible for the lecture notes and Jan will take the role of presenter and guide you through the lessons.
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I was interested in the Integrel system for a 48V alternator and battery bank after seeing a video by Nigel. Unfortunately, there is no solution for my Yanmar 4JH2-TE at this time. It seems like a very good solution to reducing cable sizes and more importantly maximize alternator output at low rpm’s.
Researching further I found an Australian company, Safiery that makes a similar product they call a BMG and their controller called Scotty AI which can charge 48V solid state LiFePO4 batteries and a 12V battery bank simultaneously. Any thoughts on these systems?
It seems like a paradigm shift in charging and battery management but I worry about adoption and long term viability. Your input would be appreciated as to whether it’s too soon for this technology or possibly worth the investment?
Robert,
I have also seen the Scotty AI but have zero practical experience with it. APS has just released a new range of UPI (Ultra Performance at Idle) 12v, 24v, and 48v alternators with improved low-end performance, efficiency, and output levels (I have been intermittently bugging them since 2019 to do this). They are small frame alternators which will fit in the stock alternator position, and for many of which there are available brackets for the second alternator position. Not as powerful as the Integrel, but really impressive given their small case size, installation versatility, and a fraction of the cost.
If you have a 24v boat I would look at the UPI 240a 24v alternator, coupled to a Wakespeed or Altion voltage regulator. I am going to put two of these alternators on my new boat (currently under construction) which will give me performance at least equal to the Integrel at substantially less cost. The APS alternators are available through OceanPlanet Energy (in full disclosure, I am a part owner).
Nigel
Thanks Nigel, this is excellent advice.
I have spoken to OPE and they suggested the same but at 12V. One last question; my current system is all 12V but I am planning to replace the alts and batteries. Your thoughts on switching to 24V batteries and alternator and add a Voltage converter (between batteries and dc consumers) to gain the benefit of the higher 24V alternator output at lower rpm’s or stick with 12V alternator and batteries (still would use APS 12V alt). I was planning to update other components (Inverter/charger, bat to bat chargers and MPPT controllers) so they are not a huge consideration.
Between Altion and Wakespeed do you have a preference?
Robert,
The 12v versus 24v depends on your loads analysis. The advantage of the 24v is a higher aggregate alternator output; the disadvantage is the added complexity and some energy loss with the 24/12 energy conversion. Given that this is a 12v boat, it will be simpler to stick with 12v. On Wakespeed versus Altion, to date, we do not have a lot of real-world experience with the Altion. The capabilities are broadly the same. The Altion packages this into a considerably smaller package, but the downside to this is it provides less real estate for the attachment of components and the as a result the main wiring harness attachment is not as robust as that on the Wakespeed. Either should serve you well.
Nigel