Victron Energy VDI Galvanic Isolator, 230V, IP67, M6 Connection, Waterproof Potted

Overview

The Victron Energy Galvanic Isolator VDI-16, VDI-32 and VDI-64 is a waterproof potted galvanic isolator range for boats connected to 230V shore power. It blocks low-voltage DC currents that can enter through the shore power earth wire and attack underwater metals such as the hull, propeller, shaft, and other bonded metal parts.

Inside the unit, two diodes are connected in an anti-parallel arrangement, allowing current in both directions only once the threshold is reached at about 1.4 Vdc. This lets the isolator stop normal galvanic current while still allowing higher AC fault current to pass so the residual-current device can trip.

The range uses an IP67 potted enclosure with an anodized aluminium heat sink, M6 connections, and amperage options for 16 A, 32 A, and 64 A shore power installations.

Key features

• Blocks low-voltage DC galvanic currents carried through the shore power earth wire.
• Helps protect underwater metals including hull fittings, propellers, shafts, and bonded metalwork.
• Anti-parallel diode layout conducts at about 1.4 Vdc, keeping normal galvanic current from flowing.
• Installs directly behind the boat's 230V shore power connection.
• IP67 waterproof potted construction suits exposed marine electrical spaces when installed correctly.
• Anodized aluminium heat sink supports cooling in shore power installations.
• M6 terminals are used across the 16 A, 32 A, and 64 A models.

Variants

This Victron Energy galvanic isolator range is offered in three current ratings for different shore power installations.

The amperage rating, peak current rating, weight, and case dimensions vary by model. The waterproof potted construction, IP67 protection category, anodized aluminium heat sink, and M6 connection are consistent across the range.

• GDI000016000, Amperage 16A. This VDI-16 model is rated for 16 A maximum current, with 1600 A peak current for 20 ms, a weight of 1 kg, and dimensions of 60 x 120 x 200 mm.
• GDI000032000, Amperage 32A. This VDI-32 model is rated for 32 A maximum current, with 3200 A peak current for 20 ms, a weight of 2 kg, and dimensions of 63 x 164 x 200 mm.
• GDI000064000, Amperage 64A. This VDI-64 model is rated for 64 A maximum current, with 6000 A peak current for 20 ms, a weight of 3.2 kg, and dimensions of 63 x 164 x 335 mm.

Installation and setup

The isolator belongs in the green safety grounding conductor between the shore power connection and the vessel grounding system, ahead of all grounding connections to the boat. This placement matters because any grounding path that bypasses the isolator can make it ineffective.

Mount the unit in a well-ventilated, heat-resistant area with 10 cm of clear space around it. It should be mounted with its length vertical so heat can rise away from the heat sink during normal operation and during fault-current conditions.

Use on board

This product is a good match for boats that spend time connected to marina shore power and need galvanic corrosion protection without replacing the whole AC shore power system. It is most relevant on vessels with bonded underwater metals, especially where the boat may remain plugged in for long dockside periods.