24 VDC Side-Power Stern Thruster

Case Study: Large Motor Yacht Installing a Side-Power Stern Thruster and 24 VDC Galley Equipment at the Stern

Overview of the Project

The Dickerson Harbor Boatyard was tasked with the installation of a 24 VDC Side-Power stern thruster and an outdoor galley with electrical equipment on a large motor yacht. The owner desired to have 24 VDC grill cooking equipment as part of the galley setup. However, the total potential current draw was quite high, posing a challenge for the boatyard.

Chesapeake Bay Catamaran Center

Challenges Faced

The main challenge faced by the boatyard was the high current draw that the installation of the large Side-Power stern thruster and outdoor galley equipment would require. This posed a risk of overload on the yacht’s electrical system, potentially leading to power disruptions and equipment malfunctions.

Products and Services Utilized

To overcome the challenge of high current draw, the boatyard employed a Victron 12 VDC to 24 VDC converter. This Victron converter charger was carefully sized to accommodate the new battery installation for the stern thruster. Additionally, the boatyard’s design team meticulously planned the converter and wire sizing to ensure they could meet the power needs of the additional equipment at the stern, including the outdoor galley.

DC-to-DC converters, such as the Victron 12 VDC to 24 VDC converter used in this project, are commonly employed as power supplies to deliver a constant and steady output voltage from a nominal input voltage range that can fluctuate. In this case, the converter was necessary to step up the nominal input voltage of the yacht’s electrical system, which was 12 VDC, to a constant output voltage of 24 VDC for the Side-Power stern thruster and outdoor galley equipment. Using 24 VDC meant less current draw for the same power and smaller cables running the long distance to the stern. The battery, converter, wiring, and other components were all sized to ABYC standards for a safe, reliable system.

Successful Outcomes Achieved

The installation project was a success, meeting the owner’s requirements and exceeding expectations. The owner was impressed with the professionalism demonstrated in the design process, the cost-effectiveness of the solution considering the stringent new requirements, and the reliability of the system during and after sea trials.

By carefully selecting and implementing the Victron 12 VDC to 24 VDC converter, the boatyard effectively resolved the challenge of high current draw. The yacht’s electrical system now efficiently powers the stern thruster and outdoor galley equipment, providing a seamless and reliable experience for the owner.

Overall, the Dickerson Harbor Boatyard demonstrated their expertise in designing and implementing electrical systems for yachts, showcasing their ability to overcome challenges and deliver successful outcomes for their clients.

Consult with the professionals at the Dickerson Harbor Boatyard to assess the potential cost savings specific to your yacht modernization project. For help in the Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis, the Eastern Shore, and Baltimore areas, let us find the perfect electrical solution for your needs.

Call at (410) 822-8556.