Victron Energy Orion 24/12-70A Non-Isolated DC-DC Converter, IP20, Remote On/Off

Overview

The Victron Energy Orion 24/12-70 is a high-power, non-isolated DC-DC converter that steps a 24V DC supply down for 12V DC loads or charging tasks on board. It accepts an 18-35V input range and has an adjustable 10-15V output, with 70A continuous output current and up to 85A maximum output current.

This converter is a practical fit for vessels with a 24V house or engine electrical system that still need to run 12V equipment, maintain a 12V accessory battery, or feed a mixed-voltage DC distribution setup. Because it is non-isolated, it belongs in systems where a shared negative between input and output is acceptable.

The IP20 enclosure should be mounted in a protected electrical space rather than exposed to spray, washdowns, or standing moisture. The unit uses temperature-controlled fan assisted cooling, so it needs airflow around the case, especially in warm lockers, machinery spaces, or enclosed electrical panels.

Key features

• Converts 24V DC systems to adjustable 12V-class output, with a 10-15V output range for load supply or battery charging use.
• 70A continuous output supports larger 12V loads from a 24V DC source without adding a separate 12V alternator or full inverter setup.
• Remote on-off connection lets the converter be controlled by a low-power switch or engine run/stop signal instead of switching the main input cable.
• Up to five adjustable-output units can be connected in parallel when more output current is needed.
• 92% efficiency helps limit wasted power and heat in battery-powered marine electrical systems.
• IP20 housing is suited to dry, protected installation spaces such as electrical cabinets, technical lockers, and sheltered equipment areas.
• Temperature-controlled fan assisted cooling helps manage heat under load while avoiding constant fan operation.
• Compact 65 x 88 x 195 mm footprint makes it easier to place near DC distribution equipment while keeping cable runs practical.

Variants

This product is offered in two connection configurations for the same Orion 24/12-70 converter platform.

The main difference is the DC terminal style. The M6 bolt version is suited to crimped cable lugs and secured high-current cabling, while the binding post version gives a post-style connection layout for installations that are arranged around that termination method.

• ORI241270020: Conversion 24/12-70 with M6 bolt DC connections. This version fits installations where the installer wants ring-lug cable terminations fastened directly to the converter studs.
• ORI241270030: Conversion 24/12-70 with binding post DC connections. This version keeps the same 24V-to-12V converter role while using binding posts for the main DC wiring interface.

Installation and setup

Mount the converter close enough to the DC source and 12V distribution point to keep cable runs sensible, while still leaving room for service access and airflow. High-current DC wiring should be sized for the installed run length, expected current, voltage drop target, and overcurrent protection plan.

The output voltage is adjustable with a potentiometer, which is useful when the converter is feeding a 12V battery or compensating for installation-specific voltage drop. Final settings should be checked with a meter at the load or battery after the wiring is complete.

Electrical and system integration

The Orion 24/12-70 works in mixed-voltage DC systems where a 24V bank, alternator, or DC bus must support 12V equipment. Common onboard examples include 12V electronics, pumps, lighting circuits, accessory panels, or a small 12V battery within an otherwise 24V vessel.

Because there is no galvanic isolation between input and output, it should not be used where isolated DC-DC conversion is required to separate grounds or manage sensitive grounding arrangements. For many standard 24V-to-12V service loads, the shared-ground arrangement is straightforward and keeps the installation simple.

Use on board

This converter makes the most sense for boats that already use 24V for charging or distribution but still carry important 12V equipment. It is well suited to refits, equipment upgrades, and new installations where keeping a stable 12V supply is cleaner than adding duplicate charging hardware.

For marine use, the key is placement. Keep it in a dry, ventilated location, away from bilge moisture, direct spray, and heat sources, then pair it with properly terminated cabling and circuit protection for a tidy DC installation.