Mastervolt Marine Systems

Page 1

powerbook

Marine systems


The power of Mastervolt

You’ve just dropped anchor in an azure blue lagoon. The flatscreen gives your precise location while the airco ensures a fresh breath of air in the deckhouse. Calling you from the fridge is a lovely cold Chardonnay. After uncorking the bottle you share the moment with the outside world via Twitter and check your email. Then it’s time to fry those giant prawns you bought in that quaint harbour, seasoning them with a clove of fresh garlic. Rustling up a green salad, you smile at the aroma of freshly baking bread coming from the oven. At no time do you think about where all the power is coming from to ensure these onboard comforts. And why should you? ‘The power to be independent’ is why you went to Mastervolt in the first place. This Mastervolt Systems Powerbook is filled with fully compatible and seamlessly integrated energy systems. It makes clear that Mastervolt products rarely come on their own, serving instead as a reliable component within intelligent power systems. This is how we see the future, with the development of smart system integration similar to that already seen in houses and cars. If you would also like to read about the individual products that will make your onboard life more comfortable and carefree, ask for a copy of the Mastervolt Products Powerbook. This gives a wide overview of our maritime range, which is renowned for its robust quality, innovative power and smart thinking. For now, however, regardless of whether you buy a single product or an entire system, Mastervolt is the right choice. With a worldwide network spanning some 80 countries, our global reputation continues to grow as Mastervolt’s popularity spreads. This will be further enhanced by our Green by Heart programme, as Mastervolt sets new standards in eco-friendliness via its successful solar activities, developments in the field of electric sailing and hybrid power solutions. I hope you continue to enjoy and benefit from the unprecedented peace of mind offered by our products and systems.

Paul Kenninck, CEO Mastervolt

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Table of contents The power to be independent

4 - 5

The people of Mastervolt: Their mission, their passion

6

Masterstrokes

8

Systems for motoryacht Day trips

10 - 17

Weekends away

18 - 27

Far-off destinations

28 - 33

Circumnavigation

34 - 39

Systems for sailyacht Day trips

40 - 47

Weekends away

48 - 55

Far-off destinations

56 - 67

Systems for catamaran Weekends away

68 - 71

Far-off destinations

72 - 77

Technical background information Electricity: How does it work?

78 - 83

The MasterBus revolution

84 - 85

MasterBus questions & answers

86 - 88

The remarkable simplicity of MasterBus events How to create a MasterBus network

89 90 - 91

A masterful overview with the MasterView System 92 - 94 Frequently asked questions about battery chargers 95 - 100 Mastervolt battery charger alarms

101 - 103

Frequently asked questions about inverters

104 - 107

Frequently asked questions about Combis

108 - 111

All you need to know about alternators

112 - 113

The battery as power source

114 - 117

Frequently asked questions about batteries

118 - 125

3-Step charging

126 - 127

Charging batteries

128 - 133

Preventing electrolysis onboard boats

134 - 135

Technical terms - glossary

136 - 149

Service points

150

Colophon

151

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The power to be independent Onboard power that you can rely on at all times, wherever you may be in the world: This is Mastervolt’s mission. Our products and systems provide you with the power to be independent, regardless of where you may sail or which equipment you choose to use onboard. To ensure your autonomy, Mastervolt has always opted for the highest quality and the potency that comes from ongoing innovation. Moreover, we have added something else to the mix… A desire to be the very best at what we do. While all our individual products give you ‘The power to be independent’, the complete and intelligent systems in this Powerbook take you to the next level of efficiency. Worldwide A-brand Whether you opt for an individual product or a complete system, you can rely on Mastervolt for an efficient process and the security that comes with a global A-brand. You’ll find Mastervolt dealers in over 80 countries around the world, all of whom have the expertise and know-how to provide you with first-class service. We ensure continuity via regular training courses that keep these specialists completely up to speed with all our products. Our dealers can also support you with technical advice, installations, system upgrades, refits and service. Professional or recreation Tugboat or luxurious sailing yacht. Cruising boat or launch. Whether you sail professionally or for your pleasure, Mastervolt has the products and systems you need. Nowhere else will you find a wider choice or more options for your power system. Batteries, hybrid power, battery chargers, inverters, information panels, digital switchboards, electrical steering and fully integrated systems: The breadth and the depth of the Mastervolt range offers a solution for every onboard requirement. From 12, 24, 48 and 230 Volt 50 Hz to the American 120/240 Volt 60 Hz.

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5


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The people of Mastervolt: Their mission, their passion Some 150 full-time specialists work for Mastervolt, the majority at the head office in Amsterdam. Many hundreds more people with a heart for Mastervolt are in service at distributors and dealers around the world. All have a shared mission and passion. The mission is to supply reliable power system throughout the world in places where people cannot access or generate electricity in conventional ways. This is achieved by constant innovation, especially in the field of green energy provision and electrical steering. And the passion? To make the mission come true by developing and manufacturing the best and most innovative power products and systems available. Research & Development is therefore in the Mastervolt genes. But although we lead the R&D process from the front, we also team up with partners such as universities, designers and manufacturers. The result is a constantly growing and healthy company with an informal and open culture where professionalism and pleasure in our work go hand in hand.

The Mastervolt head office in Amsterdam.

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Masterstrokes Extensive service and warranties The close association with our products does not end with their sale. On the contrary, Mastervolt offers a full two-year warranty on all products and parts, and up to seven years on 2 V batteries (pro rata). What’s more, thanks to the global coverage of the Mastervolt network, support is always close at hand even in the most exotic sailing regions. Where necessary, Mastervolt will even provide onboard service during or after the warranty period. Mastervolt Green by Heart ‘Green’ is in. Companies are falling over themselves as they claim to care for people, planet and society. But there are some firms – and Mastervolt is one – that have been eco-aware since their birth: What we call Green by Heart! For instance, we have been offering inverters capable of generating 230 V from solar energy since 1993. It doesn’t come much more sustainable than that! And there are many other examples of our green heart in action. Take the MasterBus platform, which generates enormous savings in materials. Or our pioneering Lithium Ion batteries. And then there are our solutions for whisper-quiet and environmentally friendly electrical sailing. These and many other concepts offer proof positive that Mastervolt has always had and always will have a green heart. Mastervolt Masterminds Ever since the company was established Mastervolt has given a high priority to Research & Development. At our head office in Amsterdam and elsewhere in the world, developers and engineers are busy every day with new products and concepts in maritime and automotive power systems, electric sailing and solar energy. Recognition has come from each of these sectors in the form of countless innovation prizes and prestigious awards. And constant renewal remains our driving force today, with the latest innovation being the Mastervolt GPX. This revolutionary hybrid solution offers home-from-home onboard power with an integrated generator, charger and inverter in a single compact box. The GPX is another brainchild of our very own Mastervolt Masterminds!

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Why buy Mastervolt? • Complete systems and system solutions. • Compact and lightweightby the latest technology. • High efficiency. • Easy to install. • Sturdy and safe connections. • Optimal communication between Mastervolt equipment via MasterBus. • Intuitive controls; central, local or remote. • Meets the most important marine safety classifications. • Service network in over 80 countries. • Numerous award-winning innovations. • The first choice of yachtbuilders and yards worldwide.

Mastervolt offices Distributors

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A Mastervolt system for carefree sailing pleasure Your ship:

Motoryacht between 20 and 30 ft

Use:

Generally day trips, at nights in a harbour

Details:

Normal onboard facilities

Your sailing profile The Mastervolt system described below assumes a frequently occurring situation. You sail out of the marina in the morning and plan to spend the day with two to four people, enjoying time on the water onboard your motoryacht. In the evening you either cruise back to your home port or hop from one marina to the next where you have access to shore power. The usual appliances are always onboard and you also want to use equipment that you brought with you such as your laptop.

Your onboard consumers include: DC consumers: description

total x capacity x hour daily consumption

GPS, depth gauge, log

3 x 5 Watt x 6 hour

= 0.09 kWh

Interior lighting

3 x 10 Watt x 4 hour

= 0.12 kWh

Water pump

2 x 30 Watt x 0.5 hour

= 0.03 kWh

Radio/CD player

1 x 40 Watt x 4 hour

= 0.16 kWh

Refrigerator

1 x 40 Watt x 3 hour

= 0.12 kWh

Several small consumers 1 x 10 Watt x 6 hour

= 0.06 kWh

AC consumers: LCD TV

1 x 50 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.10 kWh

Laptop

1 x 30 Watt x 3 hour

= 0.09 kWh

Total DC and AC consumers:

10

= 0.8 kWh


DAY TRIPS

DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations • Circumnavigation

The Basics • The maximum AC capacity is 50 Watt for the TV, laptop or telephone charger respectively. • Your navigation station has, for example, a GPS, speedometer and depth gauge. • Simple operation via touch screen control panel. • Complete convenience: With an onboard inverter you and your guests will be able to use the standard phone and laptop adapters.

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The best system choice Battery: 1 x Mastervolt AGM 130 Ah • The total of DC and AC consumers requires around 0.8 kWh. Totally discharging the batteries is not advisable so opt for a maximum of 50% discharge, i.e. 1.6 kWh. • Taking into account ease of installation and the large amount of standard equipment (such as lighting) we selected a 12 V system. • The required battery capacity is therefore 1,600 Wh/12 V = 133 Ah. • A 130 Ah Mastervolt AGM battery is ideal. Battery charger: 1 x Mastervolt ChargeMaster 12/35 • In normal conditions we assume 25% of the battery capacity when selecting a battery charger: 25% of 130 Ah requires a 32.5 A battery charger. • In this case the Mastervolt ChargeMaster 12/35 is an excellent choice. It is even able to charge up to three battery banks. In this case you only use two outputs: One for the service battery and one for the starter battery of the engine. This gives you the flexibility should you want to add another battery later. Furthermore, you can use this third output as a second starter battery if you have two engines, or for a bowthruster battery. Converter: 1 x Mastervolt AC Master 12/300 • Mastervolt AC Master 12/300 for using or charging your laptop, mobile phone and LCD TV. Other system components • 1 x MasterView Easy control panel, which includes the battery level in percentages and remaining battery use time. You will know exactly how much power you have left in your batteries. • S everal input devices are used for local operation, such as the Switch Input 4 and the Digital Input. • 1 x Mastervolt shore connection set 2+PE, 16 A/230 V. • 1 x Mastervolt Shore Fix, 16 A/30 mA earth leakage shore power. • 2 x Mastervolt Digital DC 10x10A each with 10 outputs for all possible DC consumers. • 1 x Mastervolt MasterShunt 500 battery monitor. • 1 x Mastervolt DC Distribution with 4 fuses. • Mastervolt MasterBus cables.

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DAY TRIPS

DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations • Circumnavigation

1

2

4

3

5 6

• phone charger • laptop power supply

7

• LCD TV

9

8

1

MasterView Easy

2

Switch Input 4 PCB PCB

3

Shore power connection

4

Earth leakage shore power

5

ChargeMaster battery charger

6

AC Master inverter

7

AGM starter battery 12 V

8

AGM service battery 12 V

9

MasterShunt, DC Distribution, Digital DC

10

Digital DC

10

• saloon lights • marine telephone • radio • refrigerator • phone charger • laptop charger

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Electric sailing with enough power for the day Your ship:

an electrically powered motoryacht up to 30 ft

Use:

generally day trips, at nights in a harbour

Details:

normal onboard facilities

Your sailing profile Usually a day or a weekend cruising where you are sometimes anchored without the availability of shore power. This means that you will need sufficient power to sail for two days. In this system we assume an average day trip of around six hours per day sailing at a relaxed speed.

Your onboard consumers include: DC consumers: description

total x capacity x hour daily consumption

E-propulsion

1 x 1500 Watt x 6 hour

= 9.00 kWh

(we assume 60% of the hull speed)

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GPS, depth gauge, log

3 x 5 Watt x 6 hour

= 0.09 kWh

Interior lighting

3 x 10 Watt x 4 hour

= 0.12 kWh

Water pump

2 x 30 Watt x 0.5 hour

= 0.03 kWh

Radio/CD player

1 x 40 Watt x 4 hour

= 0.16 kWh

Refrigerator

1 x 40 Watt x 3 hour

= 0.12 kWh

Several small consumers 5 x 10 Watt x 6 hour

= 0.30 kWh

Total DC consumers:

= 9.8 kWh


ELECTR IC SAILIN G

DAY TRIPS

DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations • Circumnavigation

The Basics • Engine capacity of 1 x 3.5 kW, for example a Mastervolt DriveMaster 3.5 Ultra. With the recommended configuration you will be able to sail for around four hours at cruising speed or around six hours if you go a little slower. • Your navigation station has, for example, a GPS, speedometer and depth gauge. • Simple operation via touch screen control panel. • Maintenance free system: Oil changes and cleaning the diesel filter are things of the past.

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The best system choice Electric propulsion • 1 x DriveMaster 3.5 Ultra; 3.5 kW/48 V. Batteries: 8 x Mastervolt AGM 6/400 Ah. • The total DC and AC consumers require around 9.8 kWh. Totally discharging the batteries is not advisable so opt for a maximum of 50% discharge, i.e. 19.6 kWh. • Taking the electric propulsion into account the choice was made for a 48 V system. • The required battery capacity is therefore 19,600 Wh/48 V = around 400 Ah. • Eight 6 V AGM batteries of 400 Ah ensure you have 400 Ah onboard with 48 V. Battery charger: 1 x Mastervolt Mass 48/50 • 400 Ah needs a 100 A battery charger. As there is often no shore power available we suggest a 50 A charging power. Should the harbour have a sufficient shore power connection a second battery charger can be used for faster charging. A third option is to place a second shore power inlet + cable and battery charger. Other system components • 2 x MasterView Easy control panel. One panel for the electrical system, indicating battery level in percentage and remaining battery usage time. Other panel for the electric propulsion. • 1 x Mastervolt shore connection set 2+PE, 16 A/230 V. • 1 x Mastervolt Shore Fix, 16 A/30 mA earth leakage shore power. • 1 x Mastervolt Digital DC 10x10A each with 10 outputs for all possible DC consumers. • 1 x Mastervolt MasterShunt 500 battery monitor. • 1 x Mastervolt DC Distribution with 4 fuses. • 1 x 48 V/12 V DC-DC converter. Each system has its own voltage. This microprocessor controlled unit converts 48 V into 12 V DC so you are able to use both voltages. • Mastervolt MasterBus cables. • D ifferent input devices are used for the local operation of your system, such as the Switch Input 4 PCB and the Digital Input.

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ELECTR IC SAILIN G

ELECTR IC SAILIN G

DAY TRIPS

DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations • Circumnavigation

1

3

2

4

6

5

7

8

1

MasterView Easy

2

Switch Input 4 PCB

3

Shore power connection

4

Earth leakage shore power

5

Mass battery charger

6

Service battery 48 V (8x 6 V)

7

MasterShunt, DC Distribution

8

DC-DC inverter

9

Digital DC

10

DriveMaster

9

• Saloon lighting • Marine telephone • Radio • Refrigerator • Phone charger

10

• Laptop charger

17


Complete comfort on the water Your ship:

30-40 ft motoryacht

Use:

Longer weekend trips, at night in a harbour

Details:

Comfortable onboard facilities

Your sailing profile Generally sailing for a weekend or midweek, sometimes anchored without access to shore power so you need enough power to cruise for two days. You also desire a range of comforts onboard, including a large refrigerator, microwave/oven combination and high-end coffee/espresso machine. Internet and email facilities are on your wish list as is (partial) navigation using your laptop, a good sound system and occasionally watching your favourite TV show. Your onboard consumers include: DC consumers: description

total x capacity x hour daily consumption

Navigation and deck lighting

6 x 20 Watt x 8 hour

= 0.96 kWh

communication equipment 3 x 40 Watt x 12 hour

= 1,44 kWh

Interior lighting

15 x 15 Watt x 4 hour

= 0.90 kWh

and bilge pumps

5 x 100 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.10 kWh

Refrigerator

1 x 50 Watt x 8 hour

= 0.40 kWh

Several small consumers 2 x 20 Watt x 4 hour

= 0.16 kWh

Navigation and

Water, shower, toilet

AC consumers: Audio system

1 x 110 Watt x 4 hour

= 0.44 kWh

Microwave/oven combination

1 x 2000 Watt x 0.2 hour = 0.40 kWh

Coffee/espresso machine 1 x 1500 Watt x 0.2 hour = 0.30 kWh TV

1 x 50 Watt x 3 hour

= 0.15 kWh

Laptop

1 x 30 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.06 kWh

Total DC and AC consumers:

18

= 5.4 kWh


WEEKENDS AWAY

DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations • Circumnavigation

The Basics • You do not want to have to think about what to use or when. Simultaneous power is best. • Your navigation station includes a GPS, plotter, speedometer and depth gauge. • Your yacht has several pumps for water, shower, toilet and bilges. • You require optimum ease of operation; not only centrally located but also next to your bed or in the engine room.

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The best system choice Batteries: 4 x Mastervolt MVG 12/200 Ah • The total of DC and AC consumers requires around 5.4 kWh. Totally discharging the batteries is not advisable so opt for a maximum of 50% discharge, i.e. 10.9 kWh. • Taking into account the various appliances and required peak loads we suggest a 24 V system. • The required battery capacity is therefore 10.900 Wh/24 V = ± 450 Ah. • Four 12 V MVG batteries of 200 Ah ensure you have 400 Ah onboard. Battery charger and converter: 1 x Mastervolt Mass Combi 24/4000-120 • 450 Ah needs at least 25% of the battery capacity for charging power, so in this case we chose for a 120 A charging power via the Mass Combi (the high frequency charger/inverter combination). • With the Mastervolt Mass Combi 24/4000-120 you have a battery charger that allows you to safely, quickly and completely charge two battery banks; starter and service batteries can be separately charged. • Use the Mass Combi 24/4000-120 to convert the power for your laptop, microwave and espresso machine. Using everything simultaneously is also possible. Other system components • 1 x Mastervolt shore connection set 2+PE, 16 A/230 V. • 1 x Mastervolt Shore Fix, 16 A/30 mA earth leakage shore power. • Mastervolt Mass GI 7 kVA/32 A. This lightweight isolation transformer for safely using shore power is vital for steel or aluminium vessels to avoid electrolysis and corrosion. • 1 x MasterView System touch screen control panel for operating and monitoring your entire system from one central station. Instead of separate panels spread around the boat you have a clear overview with intuitive operation. Also offers features such as an integrated tank level meter. • 2 x MasterView Easy control panels for decentralised monitoring and control with, for instance, one screen next to your bed and another in the engine room. • 4 x Mastervolt Digital DC 10x10A, each with 10 outputs for all possible DC consumers. • 1 x Mastervolt MasterShunt 500 battery monitor. • 1 x Mastervolt DC Distribution with 4 fuses. • Mastervolt MasterBus cables. • S everal different input devices are used for local operation of your system, such as the Switch Input 4 PCB and the Digital Input.

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WEEKENDS AWAY

DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations • Circumnavigation

1

4

2

5

6

3

7

• Boiler • Phone charger • Laptop charger • Hair drier • Tools 8

9

10

1

MasterView System

2

MasterView Easy

• Saloon lights

3

Switch Input 4 PCB

• Marine telephone

4

Shore power connection

• Radio

5

Earth leakage shore power

• Refrigerator

6

Mass GI isolation transformer

• Phone charger

7

Mass Combi

• Laptop charger

8

Service battery 24 V

9

MasterShunt, DC Distribution, Digital DC

10

Digital DC

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All the comforts of electric sailing Your ship:

30-40 ft electrically powered yacht

Use:

Longer weekend trips, at nights usually in a harbour

Details:

Comfortable onboard facilities

Your sailing profile Comparable to the profile described for the 30-40 ft motoryacht on page 18. For the electric propulsion/engine capacity we have assumed 2 x Mastervolt PodMaster 10 (10 kW/48 V). This recommended system enables you to cruise at five knots for four hours. You can also replace the recommended battery set with two 24 V Mastervolt Lithium Ion batteries. In addition to benefits such as a long life span and superior technology, these weigh 150 kg less and offer a 60-litre saving on volume. Your onboard consumers include: DC consumers: description

total x capacity x hour daily consumption

Electric propulsion

2 x 1500 Watt x 4 hour

= 12.00 kWh

6 x 20 Watt x 8 hour

= 0.96 kWh

communication equipment 3 x 40 Watt x 12 hour

= 1.44 kWh

Interior lighting

= 0.90 kWh

Navigation and deck lighting Navigation and 15 x 15 Watt x 4 hour

Water, shower, toilet and bilge pumps

5 x 100 Watt x 0.2 hour = 0.10 kWh

Refrigerator

1 x 50 Watt x 8 hour

= 0.40 kWh

Several small consumers 2 x 20 Watt x 4 hour

= 0.16 kWh

AC consumers: Audio system

1 x 110 Watt x 4 hour

= 0.44 kWh

Microwave/oven combination

1 x 2000 Watt x 0.2 hour = 0.40 kWh

Coffee/espresso machine 1 x 1500 Watt x 0.2 hour = 0.30 kWh TV

1 x 50 Watt x 3 hour

= 0.15 kWh

Laptop 1 x 30 Watt x 2 hour = 0.06 kWh Total DC and AC consumers: = 1 kWh

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ELECTR IC SAILIN G

WEEKENDS AWAY

DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations • Circumnavigation

The Basics • You do not want to have to think about what to use or when. Simultaneous power is best. • Your navigation station includes a GPS, plotter, speedometer and depth gauge. • Your yacht has several pumps for water, shower, toilet and bilges. • You require optimum ease of operation; not only centrally located but also next to your bed or in the engine room. • Maintenance free system: Oil changes and cleaning the diesel filter are things of the past.

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The best system choice Electric propulsion As your boat weighs around 8000 kg, we advise 2 x Mastervolt PodMaster 10; 2 x 10 kW/48 V. Batteries: 16 x Mastervolt AGM 6/400 Ah • The total of DC and AC consumers requires around 17.4 kWh. Totally discharging the batteries is not advisable so opt for a maximum of 50% discharge, i.e. around 35 kWh. • Taking the electric propulsion into account we chose a 48 V system. • The required battery capacity is therefore 35,000 Wh/48 V = around 729 Ah. • Sixteen 6 V AGM batteries ensure you have 800 Ah onboard, with 48 V. Optional: Lithium Ion batteries • To save weight and space, six Mastervolt Lithium Ion 24 V batteries are ideal as your service battery set. This will be 612 kg less weight and 107-litre less volume. The Lithium Ion batteries of 4.3 kWh each are discharged to 67% with a use of 17.4 kWh. This means they will last much longer and you always have back-up capacity. Generator, battery charger and inverter: 1 x Mastervolt GPX • The hybrid solution: Generator, battery charger and inverter in one compact unit. • Mastervolt Green by Heart: 30 to 40% less fuel consumption, fewer materials used, compact sizes, very efficient. • Smart thinking technology with peak loads. • Also for charging/converting your laptop and mobile phone power, or using the hair drier and electric tools you brought with you.

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ELECTR IC SAILIN G

ELECTR IC SAILIN G

WEEKENDS AWAY

DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations • Circumnavigation

Other system components • 1 x Mastervolt shore connection set 2+PE, 32 A/230 V. • 1 x Mastervolt Mass GI 7 kW/32 A. This lightweight isolation transformer for safely using shore power is vital for steel or aluminium vessels to avoid electrolysis and corrosion. • 1 x 48 V/12 V DC-DC converter. Each system has its own voltage. This microprocessor controlled unit converts 48 V into 12 V DC so you are able to use both voltages. • 1 x MasterView System touch screen control panel for operating and monitoring your entire system from one central station. Instead of separate panels spread around the boat you have a clear overview with intuitive operation. Also offers features such as an integrated tank level meter. • You might choose to add a MasterView Easy panel, allowing you for example to place one screen next to your bed and another screen in the engine room for decentralised monitoring and control. • 5 x Mastervolt Digital DC 10x10A each with 10 outputs for all possible DC consumers. • 1 x Mastervolt MasterShunt 500 battery monitor. • 1 x Mastervolt DC Distribution with 4 fuses. • Mastervolt MasterBus cables. • S everal different input devices are used for local operation of your system, such as the Switch Input 4 PCB and the Digital Input.

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1

2

5

26

1

MasterView System

2

Shore power connection

3

Mass GI isolation transformer

4

GPX

5

Service battery 48 V

6

MasterShunt, DC Distribution, Digital DC

7

DC-DC inverter

8

DC Distribution, Digital DC

9

PodMaster

10

Digital DC

10 11

Switch Input 4 PCB


ELECTR IC SAILIN G

ELECTR IC SAILIN G

WEEKENDS AWAY

DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations • Circumnavigation

3 4

• Phone charger • Laptop charger • Boiler

6

7 8

10 9

11

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Five-star luxury on the water Your ship:

40-50 ft motoryacht with all the comforts

Use:

Longer trips and extended periods without shore power

Details:

Luxurious onboard facilities

Your sailing profile You often make long trips and despite the luxury onboard facilities do not want to have to constantly depend on shore power. Ease and comfort are important and you like to have the same conveniences as you do at home while also being able to use a winch when moored in the harbour. Your comprehensive navigation system is spread across various indoors and outdoors screens, and you have a hydraulic, remote controlled passerelle. You also expect the components of the electric system to be seamlessly compatible with each other and provide a carefree system performance. Wherever you are, you also need complete security of service should there be a malfunction. Your onboard consumers include: DC consumers: description

total x capacity x hour daily consumption

Navigation and deck lighting

8 x 25 Watt x 8 hour

= 1.60 kWh

communication equipment 6 x 40 Watt x 12 hour

= 2.88 kWh

Interior lighting

= 2.40 kWh

Navigation and 30 x 20 Watt x 4 hour

Water, shower, toilet and bilge pumps

8 x 250 Watt x 0.2 hour = 0.40 kWh

Large refrigerator(s)

2 x 80 Watt x 8 hour

= 1.28 kWh

Freezer(s)

2 x 80 Watt x 8 hour

= 1.28 kWh

Water maker

1 x 400 Watt x 0.4 hour

= 1.60 kWh

Mooring winch

1 x 2000 Watt x 0.1 hour = 0.20 kWh

Automatic passerelle Gangway

1 x 2000 Watt x 0 hour

= 0 kWh

(only on generator, shore power or engine ) Several small consumers 20 x 20 Watt x 4 hour

28

= 1.60 kWh


FAR-OFF DESTINATIONS DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations • Circumnavigation

The Basics • You charge your batteries with heavy alternators on the main engine while sailing so seldom need shore power. • You use the generator for recharging while you are moored or anchored without having shore power available. • You do not want to have to think about what to use or when. Everything at the same time is best. AC consumers: description

total x capacity x hour daily consumption

Audio system

1 x 250 Watt x 4 hour

= 1.00 kWh

Microwave/oven combination

1 x 3000 Watt x 0.5 hour = 1.50 kWh

Electric cooking

1 x 2000 Watt x 0.5 hour = 1.00 kWh

Coffee/espresso machine 1 x 1200 Watt x 0.2 hour = 1.10 kWh Dishwasher

1 x 1000 Watt x 0 hour

= 0 kWh

Washing machine

1 x 2500 Watt x 0 hour

= 0 kWh

(only on generator, shore power or engine) Household appliances

4 x 200 Watt x 0.5 hour

= 0.40 kWh

TV’s

3 x 150 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.12 kWh

Laptops

2 x 30 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.12 kWh

Total DC and AC consumers:

• Your navigation station includes GPS, plotters, speedometer and depth gauge, and there is an onboard marine telephone. • Your ship has several pumps for water, shower, toilet and bilges. • You require optimum ease of operation; not only centrally located but also next to your bed or in the engine room.

= 18.5 kWh

29


The best system choice Batteries: 12 x Mastervolt MVSV 750 Ah (12 x 2 V) • The total of DC and AC consumers requires around 18.5 kWh. The alternators and batteries recharge during sailing; in this example we assume two engines each with a 24 V 110 A alternator. After two hours of sailing these supply 10.7 kWh power, which means that the daily consumption is 7.8 kWh. Totally discharging the batteries is not advisable so opt for a maximum of 50% discharge, i.e. at least 15.6 kWh. • Taking all consumers into account we chose a 24 V system. • The required battery capacity is around 660 Ah. • Twelve 2 V MVSV gel batteries ensure you 750 Ah onboard. Generator, battery charger/inverter and alternators • 8 kW generator 230 V/50 Hz, 3000 rpm. • T he Mass Systemswitch intelligently links all AC sources to the different consumer groups. Limited sources and priorities between the consumers are taken into consideration. • 1 x Mass Sine 24/5000 inverter supplies 230 V from the battery for the major consumers, independent of generator and shore power. • 3 x Mass 24/100 battery chargers for charging the main set. • 2 x Mastervolt Alpha 24 V 110 A alternators. Other system components • 1 x Mastervolt shore connection set 2+PE, 32 A/230 V. • 2 x Mastervolt Mass GI 3.5 kVA/16 A. This lightweight isolation transformer for safely using shore power is vital for steel or aluminium vessels to avoid electrolysis and corrosion. • 1 x MasterView System touch screen control panel for operating and monitoring your entire system from one central station. Instead of separate panels spread around the boat you have a clear overview with intuitive operation. Also offers features such as an integrated tank level meter. • You might choose to add a MasterView Easy panel, allowing you for example to place one screen next to your bed and another screen in the engine room for decentralised monitoring and control. • 6 x Mastervolt Digital DC 10x10A each with 10 outputs for all possible DC consumers. • 2 x Mastervolt MasterShunt 500 battery monitor. • 3 x Mastervolt DC Distribution with 4 fuses. • Mastervolt MasterBus cables. • S everal different input devices are used for local operation of your system, such as the Switch Input 4 PCB and the Digital Input.

30


FAR-OFF DESTINATIONS DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations • Circumnavigation

31


1

2

3

8

32

1

MasterView System

2

8 kW generator

3

Shore power connection

4

Mass GI isolation transformer

5

Mass Systemswitch 16 kW

6

Mass Sine inverter

7

Mass battery charger

8

Service battery 12 x 2 V gel

9

MasterShunt, DC Distribution

10

MasterShunt, DC Distribution (2 x), Digital DC

11

Digital DC

12

Alternators

13

DC Distribution, Digital DC

14

Switch Input 4 PCB

14


FAR-OFF DESTINATIONS DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations • Circumnavigation

4

5

• Boiler • Air conditioning • Oven • Microwave • Washing machine • Computer 6

7

7

7

• Sound installation

9

10

• Lighting • Marine telephone • Radio

11

• Refrigerator • Phone charger • Laptop charger 13 12

11

33


Safe and sound the world over Your ship:

50-70 ft motoryacht with all the comforts

Use:

Extended voyages without shore power

Details:

Luxury onboard facilities

Your sailing profile As you explore the world for weeks or even months at a time, shore power is in general not available. Nonetheless, you are not prepared to economise on luxury onboard facilities. Due to the high consumption of onboard items such as the air conditioning we have selected a generator that can easily supply all AC consumers. When the generator is not switched on, for example at night, the batteries supply the required capacity. The size of the battery set depends on your specific requirements. The robust Mass battery chargers and Mass Sine inverter ensure a professional and reliable system that will guarantee you a memorable trip. Your onboard consumers include: DC consumers during inverter use: description

total x capacity x hour daily consumption

Navigation and deck lighting

8 x 25 Watt x 8 hour

= 1.60 kWh

communication equipment 6 x 40 Watt x 12 hour

= 2.88 kWh

Interior lighting

= 2.40 kWh

Navigation and 30 x 20 Watt x 4 hour

Water, shower, toilet and bilge pumps

12 x 250 Watt x 0.5 hour = 1.50 kWh

Large refrigerator(s)

2 x 80 Watt x 8 hour

= 1.28 kWh

Freezer(s)

2 x 80 Watt x 8 hour

= 1.92 kWh

Mooring winch

1 x 2000 Watt x 0.2 hour = 0.40 kWh

Several small consumers 20 x 20 Watt x 4 hour

= 1.60 kWh

AC consumers during inverter use: TV/entertainment

2 x 350 Watt x 2 hour

= 1.40 kWh

Audio

1 x 250 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.50 kWh

Coffee/espresso machine

1 x 1500 Watt x 0.1 hour = 0.15 kWh

Total DC and AC consumers during inverter use:

34

= 15.6 kWh


CIRCUMNAVIGATION

DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations • Circumnavigation

The Basics

AC consumers during generator use: description

total x capacity

Audio system

1 x 250 Watt

• All Mastervolt systems have been

Microwave/oven combination

1 x 3000 Watt

designed for faultless operation and

Electric cooking

1 x 7000 Watt

complete user friendliness. Their reliability

Coffee/espresso machine

1 x 1200 Watt

is unprecedented and on the rare

Dishwasher

1 x 1000 Watt

occasions when something does go wrong

1 x 2500 Watt

our worldwide service network will

1 x 14000 Watt

quickly find a solution.

Washing machine Air conditioning

(only on generator, shore power or engine) Several appliances

10 x 200 Watt

• You charge your batteries with the

TV

3 x 350 Watt

heavy alternators on the main engine

1 x 4000 watt

and via your generator. You are totally

1 x 300 Watt

independent from shore power.

Boiler

Wine cooler

Battery charger

4 x 2500 Watt • Your navigation station is very

Total AC consumers during generator use:

comprehensive. Your yacht has several 46.6 kW

pumps, including for water, shower, toilet and bilge. • You expect the best possible centrally located controls. • Your yard has designed a custom switchboard that meets your specific needs and demands.

35


The best system choice Batteries: 12 x MVSV 1250 Ah • The DC and AC consumers require during inverter use around 15 kWh a day. Totally discharging the batteries is not advisable so opt for a maximum of 50% discharge, i.e. around 30 kWh. • Taking all consumers into account we chose a 24 V system. • The required battery capacity is therefore 30.000 Wh/24 V = 1250 Ah. • Twelve 2 V MVSV batteries ensure that you 1250 Ah onboard. • 4 x Mastervolt gel batteries as (emergency) power supply for the navigation and communication equipment. Generator, battery chargers, inverter and alternators • As simultaneous use of all AC equipment is rarely required, we chose a 30 kW generator, 230 V/50 Hz, 1500 rpm. The low rpm ensures less vibration and noise pollution. • 3 x Mastervolt Mass 24/100 battery chargers for charging the service battery. • 1 x Mass 24/100 battery charger for charging the (emergency) power supply. • 1 x Mastervolt Mass Sine 24/10 kW inverter for AC consumers. • 2 x Mastervolt Alpha 24 V 110 A alternators. Other system components • 2 x Mastervolt shore connection set 32 A. • 2 x 2 Mastervolt Mass GI 3.5 kVA/16 A. This lightweight isolation transformer for safely using shore power is vital for steel or aluminium vessels to avoid electrolysis and corrosion. • 1 x MasterView System touch screen control panel for operating and monitoring your entire system from one central station. Instead of separate panels spread around the boat you have a clear overview with intuitive operation. Also offers features such as an integrated tank level meter. • 6 x Mastervolt Digital DC 10x10A each with 10 outputs for all possible DC consumers. • 2 x Mastervolt MasterShunt 500 battery monitors. • 4 x Mastervolt DC Distribution with 4 fuses. • Mastervolt MasterBus cables. • S everal different input devices are used for local operation of your system, such as the Switch Input 4 PCB and the Digital Input.

36


CIRCUMNAVIGATION

DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations • Circumnavigation

37


1

2

4

5

4

38

1

MasterView System

2

30 kW generator

3

Custom made switchboard

4

Shore power connection

5

Mass GI isolation transformer

6

Mass Sine inverter

7

Mass battery charger

8

Service battery 12 x 2 V gel

9

MasterShunt, DC Distribution

10

MasterShunt, 2 x DC Distribution, Digital DC

11

Digital DC

12

DC Distribution, Digital DC

13

MVG gel battery as (emergency) power

14

Alternators

15

Switch Input 4 PCB

7

15


CIRCUMNAVIGATION

DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations • Circumnavigation

3

• Boiler

• Washing machine

• Oven

• Computer

• Microwave

• Sound installation

7

7

• Air conditioning

7

6

8 9

10

11

• Lighting • Radio

9

• Pumps • Several small consumers

• Marine telephone • Radio • Navigation equipment 13

12

14

11

39


The wind in your sails for the day Your ship:

25 ft touring yacht - 50 ft lightweight racer

Use:

Mainly day trips, at night back in the harbour

Details:

Normal onboard facilities

Your sailing profile What can be better than a nice day’s sailing on the water? Relaxed after so much fresh air you head back to the harbour at the end of the day. Onboard you have the basic facilities, with the option to watch TV, listen to music, chill the white wine and charge your laptop or mobile phone. Your onboard consumers include: DC consumers: description

total x capacity x hour

daily consumption

GPS, wind meter, speedometer and depth gauges

4 x 4 Watt x 5 hour

= 0.08 kWh

Interior lighting

3 x 15 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.09 kWh

Water pump

1 x 30 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.006 kWh

Radio/CD player

1 x 30 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.06 kWh

Refrigerator

1 x 50 Watt x 8 hour

= 0.20 kWh

Several small consumers 1 x 10 Watt x 6 hour

= 0.06 kWh

AC consumers: TV

1 x 50 Watt x 1 hour

= 0.05 kWh

Laptop

1 x 30 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.06 kWh

Total DC and AC consumers:

40

= 0.5 kWh


DAY TRIPS

DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations

The Basics • The maximum AC capacity is 50 Watt for the TV. • Your navigation station includes GPS, wind meter, speedometer and depth gauge • S imple operation via touch screen control panel. • U ltimate ease: with an onboard inverter you and your guests are able to use a standard phone and laptop adapter.

41


The best system choice Batteries: 1 x Mastervolt MVG 12/85 Ah as consumer battery • 1 x Mastervolt MVG 12/25 Ah as starter battery. • The total of DC and AC consumers requires around 0.5 kWh. Totally discharging the batteries is not advisable so opt for a maximum of 50% discharge, i.e. at least 1 kWh. • Taking all the different equipment into account a 12 V system will suffice. • Required battery capacity: 1,000 Wh/12 V = approx 85 Ah. Battery charger: 1 x Mastervolt ChargeMaster 12/25 • 85 Ah needs a 25 Ah battery charger; charging power approx. 25% of the battery capacity. • With the Mastervolt ChargeMaster 12/25 you have a battery charger with three outputs. This allows you to charge the starter battery as well as the consumer battery and still have one output left. Inverter: 1 x Mastervolt AC Master 12/300 • Mastervolt AC Master 12/300 for using or charging your laptop, mobile phone and LCD TV. Other system components • 1 x MasterView Easy control panel for reading out and operating the electric system. Includes indication of battery level in percentage and remaining time, received via the MasterShunt, and also centrally controls consumers such as lighting and navigation equipment. • S everal different input devices are used for local operation of your system, such as the Switch Input 4 PCB and the Digital Input. • 1 x Mastervolt shore connection set 2+PE, 16 A/230 V. • 1 x Mastervolt Shore Fix, 16 A/30 mA earth leakage shore power. • 3 x Mastervolt Digital DC 10x10A each with 10 outputs for all possible DC consumers. • 1 x Mastervolt MasterShunt 500 battery monitor. • 1 x Mastervolt DC Distribution with 4 fuses. • Mastervolt MasterBus cables.

42


DAY TRIPS

DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations

1

2

4

3

5 6

• Phone charger • Laptop power supply

7

• LCD TV

9 8

10

1

MasterView Easy

2

Switch Input 4 PCB

• Saloon lights

3

Shore power connection

• Marine telephone

4

Earth leakage shore power

• Radio

5

ChargeMaster battery charger

• Refrigerator

6

AC Master inverter

• Phone charger

7

AGM starter battery 12 V

8

AGM service battery 12 V

9

MasterShunt, DC Distribution, Digital DC

10

Digital DC

10

• Laptop charger

43


The ease of electric sailing Your ship:

25-50 ft lightweight sailing yacht with

electric propulsion

Use:

Mainly day trips, at night back in the harbour

Details:

Normal onboard facilities

Your sailing profile Here we have another example of the unparalleled pleasures of heading out for a day’s sailing, returning to the marina in the evening at peace with the world. With electric propulsion onboard you have even more peace of mind when cruising on the motor in areas where diesels are banned or manoeuvring in the harbour. In addition you have all the standard facilities as well as the option to watch TV, listen to music and charge your laptop or mobile phone. Your onboard consumers include: DC consumers: description

total x capacity x hour daily consumption

Electric propulsion

1 x 1500 Watt x 3 hour

= 4,5 kWh

Navigation and communication equipment

4 x 4 Watt x 5 hour

= 0.08 kWh

Interior lighting

3 x 15 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.09 kWh

Water pump

1 x 30 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.006 kWh

Radio/CD player

1 x 30 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.06 kWh

Refrigerator

1x 50 Watt x 4 hour

Several small consumers 1 x 10 Watt x 6 hour

= 0.2 kWh = 0.06 kWh

AC consumers: TV

1x 50 Watt x 1 hour

= 0.05 kWh

Laptop

1x 30 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.06 kWh

Total DC and AC consumers:

44

= 5 kWh


ELECTR IC SAILIN G

DAY TRIPS

DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations

The Basics • Minimal maintenance and complete quiet when electric sailing. Seven knots possible: Sailing time at an average of 5 knots is around 4 hours. • The maximum AC capacity is 50 Watt for the TV. • Your navigation station includes GPS, wind meter, speedometer and depth gauge. • Simple operation via touch screen control panel. • U ltimate convenience: With an onboard inverter you and your guests can use the standard phone and laptop adapter. • T he large battery capacity required by electric sailing gives you flexibility if you use the sails a lot and only start up the motor for small stretches. You are then able to stay offshore for a few days and still power the refrigerator and other consumers.

45


The best system choice Electric propulsion: 1 x Mastervolt DriveMaster 2.5 • A propeller shaft rpm of 1100 rpm per minute. Batteries: 4 x Mastervolt AGM 6/400 Ah • The total of DC and AC consumers requires around 5 kWh. Totally discharging the batteries is not advisable so opt for a maximum of 50% discharge, i.e. at least 10 kWh. • Taking the electric propulsion into account you chose a 24 V system. • Required battery capacity: 10.000 Wh/24 V = 400 Ah. Optional: Lithium Ion batteries • If you want to save weight and space, opt for two Mastervolt Lithium Ion 24 V batteries with a capacity of 6 kWh. With a use of 5 kWh you only have a 60% discharge, which means that you can use the batteries a lot longer. And you save 128 kg in weight, with a higher capacity! Battery charger: 1 x Mastervolt ChargeMaster 24/100-3 • 400 Ah needs around 25% of the battery capacity as charging power, so we chose a ChargeMaster 24/100 here. If the harbour does not supply the required 11 A shore power, you can derate the charging power via the MasterView Easy. Charging will take more time but the batteries will be fully charged. Inverter: 1 x Mastervolt AC Master 24/300 • Mastervolt AC Master 24/300 for using or charging your laptop, mobile phone and an LCD TV. Other system components • 1 x MasterView Easy control panel for the electric system, includes battery level in percentage and remaining battery use. • 1 x Mastervolt shore connection set 2+PE, 16 A/230 V. • 1 x Mastervolt Shore Fix, 16 A/30 mA earth leakage shore power. • 3 x Mastervolt Digital DC 10x10A each with 10 outputs for all possible DC consumers. • 1 x Mastervolt MasterShunt 500 battery monitor. • 1 x Mastervolt DC Distribution with 4 fuses. • Mastervolt MasterBus cables. • S everal different input devices are used for local operation of your system, such as the Switch Input 4 PCB and the Digital Input.

46


ELECTR IC SAILIN G

DAY TRIPS

DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations

1

2

4

3

5

6

• Phone charger • Laptop power supply 7

8

9

• Saloon lights • Marine telephone • Radio 1

MasterView Easy

2

Switch Input 4 PCB

• Phone charger

3

Shore power connection

• Laptop charger

4

Earth leakage shore power

5

ChargeMaster battery charger

6

AC Master inverter

7

AGM main batteries 6 V

8

MasterShunt, DC Distribution, Digital DC

9

Digital DC

10

DriveMaster

9

• Refrigerator

10

47


A weekend with wind in your sails Your ship:

35-50 ft sailing yacht

Use:

Weekends sailing; shore power not always available

Details:

Average onboard facilities

Your sailing profile You like to leave harbour on a Friday afternoon for a fantastic weekend of sailing. There is a good wind so the sails are quickly filled and the weather stays great for the entire weekend. Onboard, your Mastervolt system ensures that you do not have to worry about a thing. Your onboard consumers include: DC consumers: description

total x capacity x hour daily consumption

Navigation and deck lighting

3 x 15 Watt x 6 hour

= 0.27 kWh

Navigation and communication equipment

3 x 20 Watt x 6 hour

= 0.36 kWh

Interior lighting

5 x 15 Watt x 4 hour

= 0.30 kWh

bilge pumps

3 x 50 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.003 kWh

Bowthruster

1 x 4500 Watt x 0.06 hour = 0.075 kWh

Refrigerator

1 x 50 Watt x 8 hour

= 0.40 kWh

Several small consumers 2 x 10 Watt x 4 hour

= 0.08 kWh

Water, shower and

AC consumers: Microwave/oven

1 x 2000 Watt x 0.1 hour = 0.20 kWh

Audio system

1 x 150 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.10 kWh

TV

1 x 150 Watt x 1 hour

= 0.15 kWh

Coffee maker

1 x 1200 Watt x 0.2 hour = 0.24 kWh

Laptop

1 x 30 Watt x 2 hour

Total DC and AC consumers:

48

= 0.06 kWh = 2.4 kWh


WEEKENDS AWAY DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations

The Basics • S ufficient power for coffee maker and microwave when anchored and sailing. • The maximum AC capacity is 2000 Watt for the microwave/oven; however, you will only use this for a relatively short period of time. • Your navigation station includes GPS, plotter, wind meter, speedometer and depth gauge • You prefer optimum ease of operation; centrally located.

49


The best system choice Batteries: 2 x Mastervolt AGM 6/400 Ah • The total of DC and AC consumers requires around 2.4 kWh. Totally discharging the batteries is not advisable so opt for a maximum of 50% discharge, i.e. at least 4.8 kWh. • Taking the various equipment into account, a 12 V system will suffice. • Required battery capacity: 4,800 Wh/12 V = 400 Ah. Optional: Lithium Ion batteries • W ith Mastervolt’s Lithium Ion 24 V battery you have 4.3 kWh battery capacity, which you only discharge to 55%. The backup capacity is large and you also save 64 kg (57% less weight). Battery charger/inverter: 1 x Mastervolt Mass Combi 12/2500-100 • 400 Ah needs a 100 Ah battery charger (25% of the battery capacity). • With the Mastervolt Mass Combi 12/2500-100 you have a battery charger with two charger outputs: One for the consumer battery and the other for the starter battery. • T he Mass Combi is a state-of-the-art battery charger/inverter in one. Thanks to its high frequency technology the unit is extra light in weight and you no longer have to put up with that annoying 50 Hz hum. • E very Mass Combi has a power boost function that allows you to use your coffee maker and microwave simultaneously, even if the available shore fuse is too small. Power from the battery is temporarily used to supply your 230 V consumers. Other system components • 1 x MasterView System touch screen control panel for operating and monitoring your entire system from one central station. Instead of separate panels spread around the boat you have a clear overview with intuitive operation. Also offers features such as an integrated tank level meter. • 1 x Mastervolt shore connection set 2+PE, 16 A/230 V. • 1 x Mastervolt Shore Fix, 16 A/30 mA earth leakage shore power. • 4 x Mastervolt Digital DC 10x10A each with 10 outputs for all possible DC consumers. • 1 x Mastervolt MasterShunt 500 battery monitor. • 1 x Mastervolt DC Distribution with 4 fuses. • Mastervolt MasterBus cables. • S everal different input devices are used for local operation of your system, such as the Switch Input 4 PCB and the Digital Input.

50


WEEKENDS AWAY DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations

2

1

4

3

5

• Boiler • Phone charger • Laptop charger

6

8

9

7

• Saloon lights • Marine telephone • Radio • Refrigerator 1

MasterView System

• Phone charger

2

Switch Input 4 PCB

• Laptop charger

3

Shore power connection

4

Earth leakage shore power

5

Mass Combi

6

Service batteries 6 V

7

Starter battery 12 V

8

MasterShunt, DC Distribution, Digital DC

9

Digital DC

51


A weekend of relaxed enjoyment: Sailing and electric cruising Your ship:

40-45 ft sailing yacht with electric propulsion

Use:

Weekend sailing and cruising; shore power

not always available

Details:

Average onboard facilities

Your sailing profile Maximum enjoyment of good sailing conditions, with the silent comfort of electric winches and electric sailing. Now you have the best of all worlds: Full speed ahead with wind in your sails or silent cruising through protected nature areas. From hauling in the sails to easy manoeuvring in the marina, this electric Mastervolt system offers everything you need onboard! Your onboard consumers include: DC consumers: description

total x capacity x hour daily consumption

Electric propulsion

1 x 1200 Watt x 4 hour

= 4.80 kWh

3 x 20 Watt x 6 hour

= 0.36 kWh

Navigation and deck lighting

Navigation and communication equipment

3 x 20 Watt x 6 hour

= 0.36 kWh

Interior lighting

15 x 15 Watt x 4 hour

= 0.90 kWh

and bilge pumps

3 x 50 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.03 kWh

Electric winches

3 x 1500 Watt x 0 hour

= 0 kWh

Refrigerator

1 x 50 Watt x 8 hour

= 0.40 kWh

Several small consumers 2 x 20 Watt x 4hour

= 0.16 kWh

Water, shower, toilet

AC consumers: Microwave/oven

1 x 2000 Watt x 0.2 hour = 0.40 kWh

Audio system

1 x 250 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.50 kWh

TV

1 x 150 Watt x 1 hour

= 0.15 kWh

Coffee maker

1 x 1200 Watt x 0.2 hour = 0.24 kWh

Laptop

1 x 30 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.06 kWh

Household appliances

2 x 200 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.08 kWh

Total DC and AC consumers:

= 8.6 kWh

* The use of electric winches has not been included in these calculations as intensive

52

winch use combined with electric propulsion is rare.


ELECTR IC SAILIN G

WEEKENDS AWAY DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations

The Basics • An (electric) motor capacity of 7.5 kW gives a sailing time of around two hours at an average speed of seven knots. At a speed of five knots your cruising time is four hours. • The maximum AC capacity is 2000 Watt for the microwave/oven; however, you will only use this for a relatively short period of time. • Your navigation station includes GPS, plotter, wind meter, speedometer and depth gauge • You require optimum ease of operation; centrally located.

53


The best system choice Electric propulsion: 1 x SailMaster 7.5 • Asynchronous propulsion system, especially for sailing boats. Batteries: 8 x Mastervolt AGM 6/400 Ah • The total of DC and AC consumers requires around 8.6 kWh. Totally discharging the batteries is not advisable so opt for a maximum of 50% discharge, i.e. 17.2 kWh. • Taking the electric propulsion into account we chose a 48 V system. • Required AGM battery capacity: 17,200 Wh/48 V = approx 400 Ah. Optional: Lithium Ion batteries • Two Mastervolt Lithium Ion batteries are sufficient as 100% discharge is possible. You save 355 kg and almost 100 litres in volume. We recommend Lithium Ion batteries. Generator/battery charger/inverter: 1 x Mastervolt GPX 48 V • Revolutionary integrated generator, battery charger and inverter. • Compact size; less weight, less space. Other system components • 1 x MasterView System touch screen control panel for operating and monitoring your entire system from one central station. Instead of separate panels spread around the boat you have a clear overview with intuitive operation. Also offers features such as an integrated tank level meter. • 1 x Mastervolt shore connection set 2+PE, 16 A/230 V • 1 x Mastervolt Shore Fix, 16 A/30 mA earth leakage shore power. • 4 x Mastervolt Digital DC 10x10A each with 10 outputs for all possible DC consumers. • 2 x Mastervolt MasterShunt 500 battery monitor. • 1 Mastervolt DC Distribution with 4 fuses. • 1 x Mastervolt 48/12 V DC-DC converter. Each system has its own supply. This DC-DC unit converts 48 V DC in 12 V DC so you can use both voltages. • Mastervolt MasterBus cables. • Several different input devices are used for local operation of your system, such as the Switch Input 4 PCB and the Digital Input.

54


ELECTR IC SAILIN G

ELECTR IC SAILIN G

WEEKENDS AWAY DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations

1

3

2

4

5

• Phone charger • Laptop charger

• Saloon lights • Marine telephone 6

7

• Radio • Refrigerator • Phone charger • Laptop charger 8

9

10 1

MasterView System

2

Switch Input 4 PCB

3

Shore power connection

4

Earth leakage shore power

5

GPX

6

Lithium Ion batteries

7

MasterShunt, DC Distribution

8

DC-DC inverter

9

DC Distribution, Digital DC

10

Digital DC

11

SailMaster

11

55


Lengthy trips or sailing the world Your ship:

60 ft sailing yacht

Use:

Extended trips and maybe even a circumnavigation

Details:

All luxury onboard facilities

Your sailing profile You make long sailing trips and have plans for a trip around the world. All extended voyages require careful preparation and route planning, plus the right equipment onboard. Your electric system needs a great deal of attention, not least because you will be using many consumers throughout the vessel and have specific power facilities such as the navigation system to cater for. Issues of redundancy are also a vital consideration should a calamity occur. By intelligently separating consumers, for example forward, amidships and aft, you ensure maximum continuity and know that any possible disruption need not totally shut everything down at the same time. Your onboard consumers include: DC consumers: description

total x capacity x hour daily consumption

Navigation and deck lighting

4 x 25 Watt x 8 hour

= 0.80 kWh

Navigation and communication equipment

6 x 40 Watt x 12 hour

= 2,88 kWh

Interior lighting

15 x 15 Watt x 4 hour

= 0.90 kWh

8 x 150 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.24 kWh = 1,20 kWh

Water, shower, toilet and bilge pumps Water maker

1 x 300 Watt x 4 hour

Electric winches

3 x 2000 Watt x 0.2 hour = 1,20 kWh

Refrigerator

1 x 80 Watt x 8hour

= 0.64 kWh

Freezer

1 x 80 Watt x 8 hour

= 0.64 kWh

Several small consumers 12 x 20 Watt x 4hour

56

= 0.96 kWh


FAR-OFF DESTINATIONS DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations

AC consumers: Microwave/oven

1 x 2000 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.40 kWh

Audio system

1 x 250 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.50 kWh

TV

2 x 150 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.60 kWh

Espresso machine

1 x 1200 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.24 kWh

Laptop

1 x 30 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.06 kWh

Household appliances

4 x 200 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.16 kWh

Electric cooking

1 x 2500 Watt x 0 hour

= 0 kWh

Washing machine

1 x 2500 Watt x 0 hour

= 0 kWh

Dishwasher

1 x 1000 Watt x 0 hour

= 0 kWh

(only on generator, shore power or engine) Total DC and AC consumers:

= 11.4 kWh

The Basics • All Mastervolt systems have been designed for faultless operation and complete user friendliness. Their reliability is unprecedented and on the rare occasions when something does go wrong our worldwide service network will quickly find a solution. • You charge your batteries with heavy alternators on the main engine and via the generator. You are completely independent from shore power. • The maximum AC capacity is 2000 Watt for the microwave/oven; however, you will only use this for a relatively short period of time. • Cable conduits can be less wide with the decentralised MasterBus system so you have more space. • You have a high-quality advanced navigation and communication station that includes GPS, marine telephone, plotter and speedometer, wind meter and depth gauges. This needs to operate seamlessly in all circumstances, taking into account possible dips in the power supply due to the use of electric winches and/or bowthruster. • You require optimum ease of operation; centrally located.

57


The best system choice Batteries: 12 x Mastervolt MVSV 750 Ah • The total of DC and AC consumers requires around 11.4 kWh per day. During engine operation the batteries are charged by the alternator, in this case 2.6 kWh with one hour sailing with a 24 V 110 A alternator. This makes the daily use 8.8 kWh. Totally discharging the batteries is not advisable so opt for a maximum of 50% discharge, i.e. at least 18 kWh. • Taking the different equipment into account we chose a 24 V system. • Required battery capacity: 18.00 Wh/ 24 V = 750 Ah. • Extra batteries: 3 x Mastervolt AGM 24 V/225 Ah for bowthruster, main engine starter battery and the navigation system. • A separate battery for your navigation & communication guarantees a stable power supply for your sensitive equipment. Optional: Lithium Ion batteries • If you want to save weight and space, opt for three Mastervolt Lithium Ion 24 V batteries. This will be 450 kg less weight and 120-litres less volume. The Lithium Ion batteries of 4.3 kWh each are discharged to 70% with a use of 9 kWh. This means they will last much longer and you always have back-up capacity. Generator/battery charger/inverter: 1 x Mastervolt GPX 24 V • Revolutionary integrated generator, battery charger and inverter. • Extra: 1 x ChargeMaster 24/70 battery charger for the bowthruster, starter and navigation set. Other system components • 1 x Mastervolt 24 V 110 A alternator. • 1 x MasterView System touch screen control panel for monitoring and controlling your entire system from one central location. • 1 x Mastervolt Mass GI 3.5 kVA/16 A. Lightweight isolation transformer for safely using shore power. • 1 x Mastervolt shore connection set 2+PE, 16 A/230 V. • 1 x Mastervolt Shore Fix, 16 A/30 mA earth leakage shore power. • 10 x Mastervolt Digital DC 10x10A each with 10 outputs for all possible DC consumers forward, amidships and aft. • 5 x Mastervolt DC Distribution with 4 fuses, one especially for the navigation system, three for consumers forward, amidships and aft, and one for the electric winches and water maker. • 1 x Mastervolt MasterShunt 500 battery monitor. • Mastervolt MasterBus cables. • S everal different input devices are used for local operation of your system, such as the Switch Input 4 PCB and the Digital Input.

58


FAR-OFF DESTINATIONS DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations

59


1

2

3

4

7

8

9

60

1

MasterView System

2

Switch Input 4 PCB

3

Shore power connection

4

Earth leakage shore power

5

Mass GI isolation transformer

6

GPX

7

Service battery 48 V

8

Bowthruster battery 24 V

9

Starter battery main engine 24 V

10

ChargeMaster battery charger

11

Navigation set 24 V

12

MasterShunt, DC Distribution, Digital DC

13

DC consumers forward

14

DC Distribution

15

DC consumers amidships

16

DC consumers aft

17

Dynamo


FAR-OFF DESTINATIONS DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations

5

6

• Boiler • Phone charger • Laptop charger • Kitchen appliances

12

13

10

14

• Electric winches • Water maker 15

11

16

17

61


Long sailing trips or a circumnavigation with e-propulsion Your ship:

60 ft sailing yacht

Use:

Long trips/circumnavigation with e-propulsion

Details:

All major basic onboard facilities

Your sailing profile Comparable with the system on page 56-57, but combined with electric propulsion. Due to the hybrid propulsion on the main engine, this system allows you to sail short distances entirely on electric power. It is possible to charge the service battery set by propelling the HybridMaster via the main engine, generator or propeller. Your onboard consumers include: DC consumers: description

total x capacity x hour

daily consumption

Electric propulsion

2 x 1500 Watt x 1 hour

= 3.00 kWh

Navigation and deck lighting

4 x 20 Watt x 8 hour

= 0.64 kWh

Navigation and communication equipment

5 x 40 Watt x 12 hour

= 2.40 kWh

Interior lighting

15 x 15 Watt x 4 hour

= 0.90 kWh

and bilge pumps

3 x 150 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.03 kWh

Water maker

1 x 300 Watt x 4 hour

= 1.20 kWh

Electric winches

3 x 1500 Watt x 0 hour

= 0 kWh

Refrigerator

1 x 80 Watt x 8 hour

= 0.64 kWh

Several small consumers 2 x 20 Watt x 4hour

= 0.16 kWh

Water, shower, toilet

AC consumers: Microwave/oven

1 x 2000 Watt x 0.2 hour = 0.40 kWh

Audio system

1 x 250 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.50 kWh

TV

2 x 150 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.60 kWh

Espresso machine

1 x 1200 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.24 kWh

Laptop

1 x 30 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.06 kWh

Household appliances

4 x 200 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.16 kWh

Electric cooker, (dish)washer and air conditioning can be powered from the battery, but are generally used in combination with a generator or shore power

Total DC and AC consumers:

62

= 9.3 kWh


HYBRI PROPU D LSION

FAR-OFF DESTINATIONS DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations

The Basics • All Mastervolt systems have been designed for faultless operation and complete user friendliness. Their reliability is unprecedented and on the rare occasions when something does go wrong our worldwide service network will quickly find a solution. • You want to be able to power all AC and DC consumers at least 24 hours independently from shore power. • The maximum AC capacity is 2000 Watt for the microwave/oven; however, you will only use this for a relatively short period of time. • The decentralised MasterBus system separates the consumers on the foreship, amidships and aft. • You have a high-quality advanced navigation and communication station that includes GPS, marine telephone, plotter and speedometer, wind meter and depth gauges. This needs to operate seamlessly in all circumstances, taking into account possible dips in the power supply due to the use of electric winches and/ or bowthruster. • You require optimum ease of operation; centrally located.

63


The best system choice Electric propulsion: 1 x HybridMaster 4.8 • A n ideal duo: Electric propulsion combined with a diesel engine up to 45 hp. When cruising electrically the HybridMaster gets its required battery capacity power from the batteries; when using the diesel the batteries are charged with a max. 75 A. Batteries: 12 x Mastervolt MVSV 750 Ah • The total of DC and AC consumers requires around 9.3 kWh. Totally discharging gel batteries is not advisable so opt for a maximum of 50% discharge, i.e. at least 18.6 kWh. • Taking the different equipment into account we chose a 24 V system • Required battery capacity: 18.600 Wh/24 V = approx. 750 Ah. • E xtra batteries: 3 x Mastervolt AGM 24 V/225 Ah for bowthruster, main engine starter battery and navigation system. Optional: Lithium Ion batteries • If you want to save weight and space, opt for three Mastervolt Lithium Ion 24 V batteries. This will be 450 kg less weight and 120-litres less volume. Generator/battery charger/inverter: 1 x Mastervolt GPX 24 V • Revolutionary integrated generator, battery charger and inverter. • Extra: 1 x ChargeMaster 24/100 battery charger for bowthruster, navigation and starter battery. Other system components • 1 x MasterView System touch screen control panel for monitoring and controlling your entire system from one central location. • 1 x Mastervolt Mass GI 3.5 kVA/16 A. Lightweight isolation transformer for safely using shore power. • 1 x Mastervolt shore connection set 2+PE, 16 A/230 V. • 1 x Mastervolt Shore Fix, 16 A/30 mA earth leakage shore power. • 9 x Mastervolt Digital DC 10x10A each with 10 outputs for all possible DC consumers forward, amidships and aft. • 5 x Mastervolt DC Distribution with 4 fuses, one especially for the navigation system, three for consumers forward, amidships and aft, and one for the electric winches and water maker. • 1 x Mastervolt MasterShunt 500 battery monitor. • Mastervolt MasterBus cables. • S everal different input devices are used for local operation of your system, such as the Switch Input 4 PCB and the Digital Input.

64


HYBRI PROPU D LSION

FAR-OFF DESTINATIONS DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations

65


1

2

3

4

7

8

9

66

1

MasterView System

2

Switch Input 4 PCB

3

Shore power connection

4

Earth leakage shore power

5

Mass GI isolation transformer

6

GPX

7

Service battery 48 V

8

Bowthruster battery 24 V

9

Starter battery main engine 24 V

10

ChargeMaster battery charger

11

Navigation set 24 V

12

MasterShunt, DC Distribution, Digital DC

13

DC consumers on foreship

14

DC Distribution

15

DC consumers amidships

16

DC consumers aft

17

HybridMaster


HYBRI PROPU D LSION

FAR-OFF DESTINATIONS DAY TRIPS • Weekends away • Far-off destinations

5 6

• Boiler • Phone charger • Laptop charger • Kitchen appliances

12

13

10

14

• Electric winches • Water maker 15

11

16 17

67


A weekend away with your catamaran Your ship:

35-45 ft catamaran with e-propulsion

Use:

Mainly weekend trips

Details:

All major basic onboard facilities

Your sailing profile Weight and weight distribution are crucial factors when sailing a catamaran and Mastervolt has given considerable thought to this issue. For example, we offer you the chance to place the generator in one hull and the battery set in the other. With the MasterBus you are able to easily connect all components, with less cables, material and weight. Moreover, by fitting the Mastervolt GPX you combine the generator, battery charger and inverter in one compact device. Your onboard consumers include: DC consumers: description

total x capacity x hour

daily consumption

E-propulsion

2 x 1500 Watt x 1 hour

= 3.00 kWh

4 x 20 Watt x 8 hour

= 0.64 kWh

Navigation and deck lighting

Navigation and communication equipment

5 x 40 Watt x 12 hour

= 2.40 kWh

Interior lighting

15 x 15 Watt x 4 hour

= 0.90 kWh

and bilge pumps

3 x 50 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.03 kWh

Electric winches *

3 x 1500 Watt x 0 hour

= 0 kWh

Refrigerator

1 x 80 Watt x 8 hour

= 0.64 kWh

Several small consumers 2 x 20 Watt x 4hour

= 0.16 kWh

Water, shower, toilet

AC consumers: Microwave/oven

1 x 2000 Watt x 0.2 hour = 0.40 kWh

Audio system

1 x 250 Watt x 2 hour

TV

1 x 150 Watt x 1 hour

= 0.15 kWh

Espresso machine

1 x 1200 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.24 kWh

Laptop

1 x 30 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.06 kWh

Household appliances

2 x 200 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.16 kWh

Total DC and AC consumers:

68

= 0.50 kWh

= 9.3 kWh

* The use of electric winches has not been included in these calculations as intensive winch use combined with electric propulsion is rare.


ELECTR IC SAILIN G

WEEKENDS AWAY Weekends away • Far-off destinations

The Basics • You want to be able to power all AC and DC consumers at least 24 hours independent of shore power. • The maximum AC capacity is 2000 Watt for the microwave/oven; however, you will only use this for a relatively short period of time. • The decentralised MasterBus system separates the consumers forward, amidships and aft. • You require optimum ease of operation; centrally located.

69


The best system choice Electric propulsion: 2 x SailMaster 7.5 • A synchronous propulsion system, especially for sailing yachts. Batteries: 8 x Mastervolt AGM 6/400 Ah • The total of DC and AC consumers requires around 9.3 kWh. Totally discharging the batteries is not advisable so opt for a maximum of 50% discharge, i.e. at least 18.6 kWh. • Taking the electric propulsion into account we chose a 48 V system. • Required battery capacity: 18,600 Wh / 48 V = 400 Ah. Optional: Lithium Ion batteries • If you want to save weight and space, opt for four Mastervolt Lithium Ion 24 V batteries, which will save you around 258 kg in weight. As two Lithium Ion batteries are a little too small in this example we chose for four batteries to give you a large back up capacity and more freedom. Generator/battery charger/inverter: 1 x Mastervolt GPX 48 V • Revolutionary integrated generator, battery charger and inverter. • Compact size, less weight. As two Lithium Ion batteries are a little too small in this example we chose for four batteries to give you a large back up capacity and more freedom. Other system components • 1 x Mastervolt 48/12 V 9 A DC-DC converter. This DC-DC unit converts 48 V in 12 V DC so are therefore able to use both voltages. • 1 x MasterView System touch screen control panel for operating and monitoring your entire system from one central station. Instead of separate panels spread around the boat you have a clear overview with intuitive operation. Also offers features such as an integrated tank level meter. • 1 x Mastervolt shore connection set 2+PE, 16 A/230 V. • 1 x Mastervolt Shore Fix, 16 A/30 mA earth leakage shore power. • 4 x Mastervolt Digital DC 10x10A each with 10 outputs for all DC consumers amidships, and in the port and starboard hulls. • 1 x Mastervolt MasterShunt 500 battery monitor. • 1 x Mastervolt DC Distribution with 4 fuses. • Mastervolt MasterBus cables. • S everal different input devices are used for local operation of your system, such as the Switch Input 4 PCB and the Digital Input.

70


ELECTR IC SAILIN G

WEEKENDS AWAY Weekends away • Far-off destinations

1

2

4

3

5

• Phone charger • Laptop charger

• Saloon lights • Marine telephone 6

• Radio

7

• Refrigerator • Phone charger • Laptop charger 8

9

11

1

MasterView System

2

Switch Input 4 PCB

3

Shore power connection

4

Earth leakage shore power

5

GPX

6

Lithium Ion batteries

7

MasterShunt, DC Distribution

8

DC-DC converter, from 48 V to 12 V

9

Distribution, Digital DC

10

Digital DC

11

HybridMaster

10

71


Maximum space and comfort on the water Your ship:

50-70 ft catamaran with electric propulsion

Use:

Long trips with many passengers

Details:

All luxury onboard facilities

Your sailing profile A large catamaran gives you lots of space for luxury and comfort. You can also sail with friends and family or take a (professional) trip with large groups. Whoever joins you onboard will love the way everything is thought through with the Mastervolt system on this catamaran. Listening to music and making coffee as you enjoy the silent comforts of electric sailing through a bay, while the diving compressor fills the oxygen cylinders. By placing identical systems to port and starboard, your catamaran stays perfectly balanced in terms of both power and weight. Island hopping at full speed is one of many options at your disposal. Your onboard consumers include: DC consumers: description

total x capacity x hour daily consumption

E-propulsion

2 x 1500 Watt x 1 hour

= 3,00 kWh

4 x 20 Watt x 8 hour

= 0.64 kWh

Navigation and deck lighting

Navigation and communication equipment

6 x 40 Watt x 12 hour

= 2,88 kWh

Interior lighting

15 x 20 Watt x 4 hour

= 1,20 kWh

and bilge pumps

8 x 150 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.24 kWh

Water maker

1 x 300 Watt x 4 hour

= 1,20 kWh

Electric winches*

2 x 2000 Watt x 0 hour

= 0 kWh

Refrigerator

1 x 80 Watt x 8 hour

= 2,00 kWh

Several small consumers 4 x 20 Watt x 4 hour

= 0.32 kWh

Water, shower, toilet

* The use of electric winches has not been included in these calculations as intensive winch use combined with electric propulsion rarely occurs.

72


HYBRI PROPU D LSION

FAR-OFF DESTINATIONS Weekends away • Far-off destinations

The Basics

AC consumers: Microwave/oven

1 x 2000 Watt x 0.5 hour

= 1 kWh

Audio system

1 x 250 Watt x 4 hour

= 1 kWh

• All Mastervolt systems have been designed

TV

3 x 150 Watt x 2 hour

= 0.9 kWh

for faultless operation and complete user

Espresso machine

1 x 1200 Watt x 0.5 hour

= 0.6 kWh

friendliness. Their reliability is

Laptop

1 x 30 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.16 kWh

unprecedented and on the rare occasions

Household appliances

4 x 200 Watt x 0.2 hour

= 0.16 kWh

when something does go wrong our

Washing machine

1 x 2500 Watt x 0 hour

= 0 kWh

worldwide service network will quickly find

Dishwasher

1 x 1000 Watt x 0 hour

= 0 kWh

a solution.

Diving compressor

1 x 1000 Watt x 0 hour

= 0 kWh

(only on generator, shore power or engine)

• You want to be able to power all AC and DC consumers at least 24 hours

Total DC and AC consumers:

= 15.3 kWh

independent of shore power. • The maximum AC capacity is 2000 Watt for the microwave/oven; however, you will only use this for a relatively short period of time. • The decentralised MasterBus system separates the consumers on the foreship, amidships and aft. • You require optimum ease of operation; centrally located.

73


The best system choice Electric propulsion: 2 x HybridMaster 4.8 An ideal duo: Electric propulsion of 4.8 kW combined with a diesel engine up to 45 hp. When cruising electrically the HybridMaster gets its required battery capacity power from the batteries; when using the diesel the batteries are charged with a maximum 75 A. Batteries: 24 x Mastervolt MVSV 750 Ah • The total of DC and AC consumers requires around 15.3 kWh. Totally discharging 2 V batteries is not advisable so opt for a maximum of 50% discharge, i.e. at least 30.6 kWh. • Taking the various equipment into account we chose a 48 V system. • Required battery capacity: 30.600 Wh/48 V = 640 Ah. Optional: Lithium Ion batteries • If you want to save weight and space, opt for four Mastervolt Lithium Ion 24 V batteries. This saves around 1000 kg in weight and around 330 litres in volume. You can discharge these batteries to around 89%. Generator/battery charger/inverter: 2 x Mastervolt GPX 48 V • Revolutionary integrated generator, battery charger and inverter. • Compact size; less weight, less space. Other system components • 2x Mastervolt 48/12 V 9 A DC-DC converters. Each system has its own voltage. This microprocessor controlled DC-DC unit converts 48 V in 12 V DC so you are able to use both voltages. • 1 x MasterView System touch screen control panel for operating and monitoring your entire system from one central station. Instead of separate panels spread around the boat you have a clear overview with intuitive operation. Also offers features such as an integrated tank level meter. • 2 x MasterView Easy for local monitoring and operation. • 2 x Mastervolt shore connection set 2+PE, 16 A/230 V. • 2 x Mastervolt Shore Fix, 16 A/30 mA earth leakage shore power. • 8 x Mastervolt Digital DC 10x10A each with 10 outputs for all possible DC consumers on port and starboard. • 4 x Mastervolt DC Distribution with 4 fuses. • 2 x Mastervolt MasterShunt 500 battery monitor. • Mastervolt MasterBus cables. • Several different input devices are used for local operation of your system, such as the Switch Input 4 PCB and the Digital Input.

74


HYBRI PROPU D LSION

FAR-OFF DESTINATIONS Weekends away • Far-off destinations

75


2

3

6

1

2

76

3

1

MasterView System

2

Shore power connection

3

Earth leakage shore power

4

GPX

5

Masterview Easy

6

Service battery 48 V

7

MasterShunt, DC Distribution

8

DC Master

9

DC Distribution, Digital DC

10

Digital DC

11

HybridMaster

12

Switch Input 4 PCB

12


HYBRI PROPU D LSION

FAR-OFF DESTINATIONS Weekends away • Far-off destinations

5

11

4

10

8

9

7

10 8

7

9

4

5

11

77


Electricity: How does it work? As electricity cannot be seen, smelled or heard (when all is well), it is a technology that can be more difficult to grasp than, say, mechanical engineering or architecture. Nevertheless, over the past century we have come to increasingly rely on electrical energy. It only takes a power cut for us to all realise how much we depend on electricity for our luxury, safety and comfort. The luxury, safety and comfort we take for granted at home and at work is also appreciated onboard a yacht or in a camper. The same goes when working in locations with no connection to a power plant, including on tugboats, Rhine barges or during road works. For more than 20 years, Mastervolt has specialised in supplying reliable electrical power in places without utility facilities. To offer a better understanding of our work, let us first give a short explanation of the main terms. Voltage and current provide power The main activity of Mastervolt is conversion. And the main variable that can be converted in the field of electricity is voltage. The electrical voltage is the potential difference between two points in an electrical circuit. We work with two types of voltage: Alternating Current (AC) and Direct Current (DC). Voltage is expressed in Volt (V). • Alternating Current is the electricity that comes out of home sockets and is used for most appliances. In Europe this is 230 V, in the USA 120 V. • Direct Current is distributed by a battery or by solar panels. Batteries are vital because they offer the only possibility to store electrical energy. Battery voltages are commonly 12 V or 24 V. Another possibility is 48 V, which is usually exclusive to electric sailing.

78


While direct current is stored in batteries, we actually need

The mentioned variables all provide power (P), which is

alternating current. This requires conversion from DC to

expressed in Watt (W). Every electric device refers to its

AC… And converting is what Mastervolt is specialised in.

output in Watt; microwaves of 900 W, light bulbs of 60 W, generators of 4000 W and washing machines of 2500 W.

Another term we use is current (I), measured in amps (A).

To keep the terminology and discussion simple, we refer

Current ‘flows’ through the onboard wiring when there

to kilowatts (kW), in which 1000 W equals 1 kW. To link

are electric appliances in use. The size of the current that

consumption to a consumption period, we use a time unit in

flows through the wiring can vary greatly (depending on how

which electrical power is generated or consumed, namely

much is required). This is why the correct cable thickness is

one hour. Together they make kilowatt hours (kWh).

so important – overheating electric wires can have serious consequences. A river in which water is flowing, a wire that conducts electrical current, or a cyclist biking against the wind…

Formulas

All experience resistance. In the field of electricity, this

The relationship between these units is expressed in

resistance (R) is indicated in Ohm (Ω). Resistance is

formulas that represent the ‘laws’ of electricity.

important because it causes losses that we need to take into account. Voltage loss takes place in wires and if not

V = the potential difference expressed in voltage (V)

dealt with there will be insufficient voltage at the end of the

I = current in units of amps (A)

wire to power the appliance we want to use.

R = resistance in units of Ohm (Ω) P = power in units of Watt (W) Ohm’s Law is the most important formula. V = I x R Voltage [V] = current [I] x resistance [R] Because we often use the term power, the formula below is frequently used to determine power: P = V x I Power [P] = voltage [V] x current [I]

79


The right wiring Having the right wiring is crucial for safe and efficient consumption. An incorrect diameter can lead to overheated cables and cause a fire. This is not just theory; vessels are lost every year due to onboard fires that are often caused by faulty wiring. As direct current involves higher current flows, it is even more important that you have the right cable thickness. The current (A) is higher because direct current with 12 V or 24 V is much lower than alternating current with 230 V while the (required) power stays the same. As a result the power will increase as P=U x I. The rule of thumb below can be used: • 3 amps power per 1 mm² cable diameter applies to DC (12 V or 24 V) systems. • 6 amps power per 1 mm² cable diameter applies to AC (230 V) systems. If a battery provides an expected current of 75 amps, you require a cable of at least 25 mm². Generating electrical power There are various ways to generate power: • With an onboard petrol or diesel generator (usually AC, also available with DC). • Via the alternator(s) on the main engine (DC, via a regulator). • Shore power (AC). • Solar panels (DC). • Wind generator (DC, via a regulator).

80


81


Conversion Generated energy can be used immediately or stored in the batteries via a battery charger. A battery charger is an inverter that converts the AC voltage into DC. It is also called an inverter if the DC voltage from the battery is converted into AC voltage. You may also encounter DC-DC converters onboard; these devices convert DC voltage into another DC value, for instance 24 V from a battery to 12 V to power your navigation equipment. NB: Designing a complete electrical system requires detailed knowledge, experience and information (the subject has filled entire encyclopaedias!). The specialised Mastervolt dealers are at your disposal.

82


Connection wire dimensions according to DIN 47750 conductor current according current according diameter to rule of thumb 2

to rule of thumb

American Wire

Gauge AWG

mm

DC

AC

0.5

1.5 A

3 A

-

-

0.75

2 A

4 A

18

1

3 A

6 A

17

-

-

1.5

4 A

-

-

2.5

7.5 A

-

-

4

12 A

-

-

6

18 A

-

-

10

30 A

-

-

16

48 A

20

-

- 9 A

15

- 15 A

13

- 24 A

11

- 36 A - 60 A

7

- 96 A

5

-

-

25

75 A

- -

3

35

105 A

-

2

-

-

50

150 A

-

0

70

210 A

-

2/0

-

-

-

-

95

285 A

-

4/0

83


The MasterBus revolution Mastervolt is your ideal system supplier. The products we supply fit seamlessly together and communicate easily to ensure a top system performance. Optimal operation is also provided by Mastervolt’s in-house developed communication and network platform: MasterBus. The masterful MasterBus: • Complete system integration. • Simple to operate. • Easy installation. • Save on installation time and costs. • Easily expandable. • Perfect to monitor.

Flexible

• Ready for the future.

New equipment can easily be added to your existing MasterBus network by simply extending the network. This

MasterBus is unique for the way a wide range of

means the MasterBus network has an enormous degree of

products, recognisable by the MasterBus symbol, are

flexibility, not just today but also in the future. Moreover,

fitted with the same communication port. This makes

Mastervolt supplies various interfaces with which you can

available a mine of information on all connected components.

also connect equipment that does not have a MasterBus link.

Everything becomes clear and easy to operate via one central

For example, we supply the MasterBus NMEA2000 Interface

touch screen panel. Operation from multiple locations is

for the integration of navigation equipment. And the

also possible, for example via PC/laptop or SMS. Installation

MasterBus Modbus Interface is ideal for linking your central

is also incredibly simple and the minimal amount of cabling

ship management system.

significantly reduces the chance of failures. Complete system

84

Reliable

MasterBus is a network that makes use of CANbus

In stark contrast to other networks, the galvanically isolated

technology, which already has a proven track record in the

MasterBus network can simultaneously supply multiple

automotive and maritime markets. MasterBus controls the

products. Each MasterBus product has an ‘intelligence’ of

electricity supply for all connected equipment, including the

its own and can function independently (if one piece of

inverter, battery charger, generator and much more besides.

equipment breaks down the rest of the system continues as

This makes possible an intelligent system performance.

usual). This feature reduces the dependency of individual

A practical example: The generator is instructed to start

products and enhances the overall reliability of your system.

automatically when the batteries are almost empty.


Easy to install MasterBus makes an electrical installation far less complex by reducing the number of cables. Each system component has two MasterBus communication ports. As soon as two or more devices are connected to each other via these communication ports they form a local data network - what we call a MasterBus network. As this requires very few communication cables you enjoy considerable savings in space, material costs and installation time. Using your PC The MasterBus USB Interface allows you to monitor, control and configure the entire MasterBus network from a Windows PC or laptop. The galvanic isolation of the interface ensures you safe operation in all situations. The required MasterView software can be easily downloaded from www.mastervolt.com. Central operation Mastervolt offers various (touch screen) control panels for the display and operation of the connected equipment, giving you a complete overview of the status of your electrical system. Push-button control is at your fingertips and the full colour MasterView System panel allows you to read all information on one central panel. All control panels are suitable for the display, operation and configuration of all connected MasterBus devices. Remote control Communicating with your boat via mobile is no longer a pipe-dream. Using MasterBus and your cell phone you can request information and control onboard equipment via SMS. If desired you can even set the interface to inform your mobile when an alarm goes off onboard.

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MasterBus questions & answers What is MasterBus? MasterBus is a protocol for exchanging information between the connected components within an electric system. MasterBus is also the standard for a plug & play information system for (de)centralised operation, service and monitoring. MasterBus ensures you a simple, logical and reliable energy system. What can I do with MasterBus? The MasterBus system is incredibly flexible and can be designed and extended to any size. Using several handy interfaces, it is also possible to connect all sorts of conventional products to MasterBus. Via the MasterBus USB interface, for example, you can connect a PC or a laptop to the system. Can I connect other products to the MasterBus? Yes, that is possible. Although MasterBus is a Mastervoltspecific protocol, non-Mastervolt products can still be connected to the system. Equipment with maritime standard NMEA2000 connections can be easily connected via the MasterBus NMEA2000 interface. In addition, the MasterBus network can be integrated within your own central system by means of the MasterBus Modbus Interface. Is MasterBus an open source? No, MasterBus is a closed protocol. This allows Mastervolt to guarantee that a MasterBus system works safely and without interference, with a uniform data supply and no unwanted interruptions. Components from other suppliers can be connected via the communication interfaces specially designed by Mastervolt. They ensure a safe and pure transition to the protocol and operate as a firewall against data interference and voltage conflicts. This ensures that the MasterBus network is always safe and reliable.

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What is the basis of MasterBus?

How do I connect a MasterBus?

MasterBus hardware is based on CANbus V2.0 technology.

The MasterBus data network lifeline is the cable, which

The software communication protocol was designed by

runs as a chain from component to component. Both ends of

Mastervolt to maximise the performance of an electrical

the cable should be provided with a Mastervolt Terminator.

power system.

On each MasterBus product are two equal communication ports for connection. By connecting a MasterBus cable to

How many products can I connect to a MasterBus?

each of the ports you add the product to the chain. The

You can connect a maximum of 63 products within a

Terminators at both ends of the cable ensure interference-

MasterBus data network.

free operation, prevent reflection of data signals and ensure high communication speeds.

What is the maximum cable length? • 250 m with less than 10 connected products.

Do components always have to be connected as a chain?

• 150 m with up to 25 connected products.

The MasterBus network requires that all components

• 100 m with up to 50 connected products.

together create a chain with Terminators at both ends.

Or use a MasterBus Repeater.

Circular configurations or branch systems may interrupt

What cables should I use?

connected equipment.

the data supply and power supply, damaging the We advise using the Mastervolt green cables but the MasterBus also works with high quality UTP cables.

What might be the causes of a malfunctioning

A Mastervolt DIY kit contains all you need to make the

MasterBus network?

cables for a complete system of any desired length.

• One or both Terminators are missing on the outside components in the chain. • One of the cables is not or incorrectly connected: Check whether you see an open communication port. • One of the plugs is not properly connected to the cable. Do I need an additional power supply for MasterBus components? No. A number of the connected components, such as the MasterShunt and the ChargeMaster, can supply the necessary MasterBus power. Other components such as interfaces and MasterView panels consume this power. The MasterBus cable is simultaneously responsible for data communication and power provision.

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Can I connect different batteries to the same MasterBus circuit? Yes. As all power supply sources within a MasterBus circuit are galvanically isolated, all connections are completely safe. Do I need additional accessories for the MasterBus system? Not for Mastervolt products. All MasterBus products come with the necessary accessories included. What happens if the MasterBus data network fails? The electrical onboard system will not shut down. Mastervolt components such as the inverter, battery charger and generator will default to normal autonomous operation. You will be able to operate the apparatus itself and still have power onboard. A break in the MasterBus network causes two distribution points that no longer work together, although they still work independently. Can I adapt a MasterBus system while it is in operation? Yes, that is possible. However, do remember that the communication network is only complete and able to function properly when all connections and Terminators have been added to the network chain again. NB: Events may ‘occur’ without them reaching the right equipment. Why do I have Terminators left over after installing a complete system? All MasterBus products are standard supplied with one terminator. As there are only two Terminators required within one system, you may have one or more Terminators left over. Keep them as spares.

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The remarkable simplicity of MasterBus events MasterBus: At your service!

Or deploy the ‘follow me home’ function, which allows you to

Every MasterBus system can be set to your requirements -

disembark safely by leaving the lights on for two minutes after

in essence, it’s like welcoming your own personal butler

you leave. All this and much more besides is available without

onboard. And MasterBus ‘events’ are how you train the

extra components.

butler. For example, you can set the generator to start automatically when the batteries are almost empty. Use MasterBus events to configure your system so that each

Summary

component can activate another.

Within every MasterBus network all available sources for your connected products can be linked to all available

Example of an event

targets. The manuals of the products concerned provide a

In the given example you set the following event: The

clear overview of available sources and targets and simplify

batteries/battery monitor tell(s) the generator to start.

the configuration of events.

Say that you use the MasterShunt as a battery monitor within the MasterBus network. In this scenario the MasterShunt is the initiator or the ‘source’ and the generator is the ‘target’. The Commando = start or autostart. The Data = on. By setting multiple events (source, target, commando + data) you can program the entire MasterBus network. Digital switching with MasterBus Another example of a MasterBus event is the use of Digital Switching. The pressing of a light switch, for instance, activates the lighting. The source is the switch, the target the lamp. One source can also be used to control multiple targets, such as the lamps in this example. Endless possibilities Thanks to the underlying communication between all the equipment connected to the MasterBus network, the configuration of events offers you endless possibilities. If you wish, the switch in the example can, for instance, activate not only the lights but also the inverter that provides power to your TV. You might use the MasterShunt, which has an integrated system clock, to set the lights to come on or off at a given time.

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How to create a MasterBus network: All devices that are suitable for the MasterBus network are equipped with two communication ports. As soon as two or more devices are connected with each other via these ports, they form a local data network. When creating a MasterBus network, follow the guidelines given here: Connections between your devices can be made by using standard UTP cables (straight). Mastervolt can supply these cables, or you can purchase them at any computer store. The cables supplied by Mastervolt have the familiar green Mastervolt colour. The electricity needed for the network is supplied by the connected devices. At least one in every four devices in each network must be able to supply power to the MasterBus. For eight devices there must be two power suppliers, etc.

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As with all high speed data networks, MasterBus

You need two Terminators to close both ends of the network -

needs a Terminator at both ends of the network.

communication cables in-between connect a chain of components.

The network should not be circle shaped: The chain ends at both ends with the Terminators.

Do not make T-connections with so-called splitters: A network should always be a chain.

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A masterful overview with the MasterView System System monitoring & configuration One of the keys to relaxed sailing is being able to simply access easily understandable information about your electrical system. Mastervolt has therefore developed sophisticated software in combination with an incredibly user-friendly 10.4-inch colour touch screen: The Mastervolt MasterView System. How does it work? The intelligent MasterBus one-cable system allows you to connect all MasterBus devices to each other, including a generator, inverter and charger, or a load such as a bilge pump, the engine, lighting or air conditioning. The MasterView System provides a clear overview of all relevant information and full control over your electrical system. To monitor or configure your MasterBus system from your laptop you need a MasterBus USB Interface. This Interface is not required if you use a MasterView System panel. The entire configuration of your MasterView system takes place on your PC using the same software used by the MasterView System panel. Offline configuration is also an option: Save your settings on a USB stick and copy them to your MasterView System panel. Your original configuration will always be saved so that any accidental settings can easily be reset, while the ‘Back to yard’ function allows you to undo unwanted settings. Another important benefit is the ‘Wizard for product replacement’ included in the system software. This function provides support in case of a malfunctioning product or water damage. After the replacement product has been automatically detected by the MasterView system, touch the display, select the ‘Replace’ button in the pop-upmenu and your system will function as before.

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Ideal for MasterView System Every Mastervolt product can be monitored, configured and operated via the MasterView System panel using MasterBus interfaces. A large number of Mastervolt products are already suitable for MasterBus, and many more will become compatible in the coming years. Check www.mastervolt.com/masterbus for the latest overview. PC or laptop A MasterBus USB Interface allows you to control, configure and monitor your entire system from your laptop or PC. Home screen A status overview of all power sources, including shore power, inverters, generators and batteries. Also allows basic control functions such as switching the inverter on or off. Digital switching screen Displays the layout of your yacht and the consumers such as lighting and selected pumps. Loads can be directly controlled using the touch screen panel, which can be tailored to your personal wishes, including the background. Automatic alarm pop-ups show you where an alarm has gone off, even if this is not immediately visible on the screen. System overview screen Diagrammatic representation of your electrical system with visualisations of voltage and animations of power consumption. Incorrect voltage is indicated in red, inactive circuits in grey.

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Tank level screen Provides the latest data on the contents of up to 20 tanks, with an option to set warning signals for both full and (almost) empty fuel and water tanks. Tank level sensors are linked to the MasterBus network and automatically detected and visualised by the system. Favourites screen Use this screen to custom configure which information and control functions appear. All information available via the MasterBus network can be viewed, where required in more logically laid out pages. For example, you might have an overview page, a page showing the status of your pumps, a page with engine information and another page with NMEA2000 data. MasterAdjust software MasterAdjust software is the predecessor of the MasterView System software and available for download via the Mastervolt website. It allows installers to align all Mastervolt equipment and provides data, parameters and settings per application and per device. In combination with the PC-Link, MasterAdjust software can also ‘talk’ to products via serial communication such as: • BTM-I • BTM-III • MAC 24/12-20 DC-DC converter • MAGIC DC-DC converters • ChargeMaster 12/10, 12/15, 24/6 • Mass Combi 12 V • Mass Combi 24 V

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Frequently asked questions about battery chargers What factors should I consider when choosing

What type of battery can I charge?

a battery charger?

You can easily charge all battery types, such as wet, AGM,

1. How many battery banks will you be charging? Take into

gel and Lithium Ion batteries.

account main, starter, bowthruster, etc. Also consider any possible future extension of your system (= sufficient

Can a Mastervolt battery charger remain connected

battery charger outputs).

throughout the winter?

2. Battery charger must have the same voltage as the battery

Yes, your Mastervolt battery charger can easily be left

bank, i.e. 12 V battery voltage = 12 V battery charger.

connected in the winter. In fact, this is better for the

3. To safely charge the batteries you need to have the correct

batteries, as they will then remain in optimum condition

charging current (measured in amps). See the battery

and there is no need to take them home for recharging.

charger specifications in the Powerbook Products for the

The 3-step charging method ensures a monthly absorption

recommended capacity.

cycle so the battery stays active. If you do not have access to

4. Compare the specifications and prices of the different

shore power during the winter we advise you to fully charge

battery chargers based upon their capacity. The charge

the batteries before the winter and then disconnect the

current is standard specified for the nominal output voltage

battery poles so small users cannot discharge your battery.

(12 or 24 V). Mastervolt applies a considerably higher

We also advise charging your battery every two months.

output voltage of 14.25 or 28.5 V. This means a shorter charge period and faster recharging of your batteries.

I sometimes have a limited shore connection. Can I still use a large battery charger? Yes. All Mastervolt battery chargers and Combis are fitted

Which battery charger is necessary for a battery

with the very latest electronics, reducing their power

capacity of 200 Ah and a 100 Ah starter battery?

consumption by about 40% compared to conventional

The starter battery is generally not considered when calculating

battery chargers. The power intake of Mastervolt 12 Volt

the charger capacity - it is only used for starting the engine and

battery chargers is summarised below for 230 Volt models.

will therefore tend to be only partially discharged if at all. While

The levels of current specified are relevant to maximum

you are sailing, the alternator recharges the battery and when

capacity operation, i.e. measured at the moment the battery

in harbour, it is charged via the second or slave outlet of the

charger supplies its full capacity.

Mastervolt battery charger. As a rule, a charge capacity of 25% (up to 50% for gel batteries) of the battery capacity is sufficient

ChargeMaster 12/25

1.9 amps

to charge the battery quickly and safely, and also power the

ChargeMaster 12/50

3.8 amps

onboard system. For a battery of 200 Ah, for instance, a battery

ChargeMaster 12/70

5.2 amps

charger of 50 amps would be appropriate.

ChargeMaster 12/100

7.4 amps

Mass 12/60

4.6 amps

Mass 12/80

6.3 amps

Is having 10% of my battery capacity as charge

capacity sufficient?

Definitely not. You can assume 25% and up to as much as 50%

In addition, each battery charger with a charge current higher

with Mastervolt batteries. The old 10% rule was common in

than 15 amps (12 Volt) can be equipped with a remote control

the days when battery chargers had no current and voltage

panel. This allows output current to be reduced, causing

regulation, and too high a current could overcharge the

the battery charger to draw even less shore power and

batteries. Mastervolt battery chargers have perfect current/

preventing the shore power fuse from blowing.

voltage regulation and are also equipped with a temperature sensor that ensures the voltage is regulated according to the battery’s temperature.

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Can I install my battery charger in the engine room or compartment? Yes. All Mastervolt battery chargers can easily be installed in the engine room as higher temperatures do not negatively affect their current output. The output current will be automatically reduced if the ambient temperature becomes very high, ensuring that the battery charger is not damaged. Can I charge batteries separately? Most Mastervolt battery chargers have an additional outlet for the starter battery. This outlet supplies the starter battery with a maintenance charge. A number of models are even fitted with three outlets, allowing three battery sets to be charged independently of each other. It is also possible to charge multiple battery sets via a battery isolator (also known as a diode splitter). The voltage loss that occurs in the battery isolator is compensated for by adjusting the charger (jumper or dipswitch settings) or connecting positive and negative voltage sense wires. Can the battery charger be connected to the same battery isolator as the alternator? Although this is possible, it is better and more convenient to fit two separate battery isolators. If this should be problematic, use the battery isolator for both. In this case, make sure that the battery isolator or Battery Mate is powerful enough to simultaneously handle both the battery charger and alternator current.

ChargeMaster 24/40.

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What should the cable diameter be between the

Example:

battery charger and the battery?

Take an empty 200 Ah battery, a 50 amps battery charger

When calculating the required diameter of these cables follow

and a connected load consuming 10 amps. Charging time in

this rule of thumb: 1 mm² of cable thickness for every 3 amps.

this case would be around 200/(50-10) = 5 h, or 9 h in total

A battery charger of 50 amps, for instance, calls for a cable of

including four hours of absorption time. If the batteries are

50:3 or 16.6 mm². The standard cable closest to this is

only half-discharged, the recharge time would be 100/(50-10)

16 mm². This applies when the distance between the charger

= 2.5 + 4 h, 6.5 h in total. The absorption time is shorter

and the inverter is three metres at most. For longer distances

with gel and AGM batteries at around two to three hours.

you will either require a thicker cable or need to connect a

These types of battery will therefore recharge faster than

voltage sense cable.

conventional ones.

What is the maximum distance allowed between the

What is voltage sense?

battery charger and the batteries?

No matter how thick, every cable has

In general, three metres is the maximum length when you are

some resistance, resulting in a certain

using the calculation method described earlier. A cable length

amount of voltage being lost between

of 6 metres is also possible, but thicker cables must then be

the battery charger and the batteries.

used. In the example used above, it is best to use 25 mm²

This voltage loss depends on the

cables if the distance between the charger and the batteries

thickness of the cable and the battery

is up to 10 metres.

charger current. A battery charger measures as standard the voltage at the output clamps. This voltage is higher than the

How long will it take before my batteries are

battery voltage. The output voltage of the battery charger

fully recharged?

minus the voltage loss via the cables is the battery voltage.

The charging time of a battery is directly related to the ratio

When a lot of voltage is being lost via the cables the

of battery to charger capacity. Other important factors that

battery charger might switch to the absorption phase too

decide how long it takes for an empty battery to completely

early, which means that the battery will not become fully

recharge are the battery type and the power consumption of

charged. To compensate for voltage loss via the cables, sense

the potential consumers.

wires have to be connected between the battery charger

As a rule, divide the battery capacity by the maximum charge

and the batteries. These thin wires ensure that the charger

capacity and add four hours. The four hours are for the

measures the voltage directly at the positive and negative

absorption time, during which the battery determines how

pole of the battery rather than the output terminals of the

much more current is necessary for it to return to its fully

charger. The voltage lost during conduction is then

charged state. Of course, this rule does not consider the power

compensated for and the batteries are charged quickly and

consumption of other connected equipment: If loads such as a

effectively. The voltage drop over, for example, a diode

refrigerator or lights are connected, their power consumption

bridge can also be simply compensated in this way.

needs to be subtracted from the available charge capacity.

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What is 3-step

charging technology?

Mastervolt’s 3-step charging technology is the fastest and safest way to charge gel, AGM and open wet cell batteries. It consists of the following phases: First step: BULK phase In the first step, the bulk phase, the battery charger delivers its maximum current (e.g. 50 amps for an IVO 12/50) and battery voltage increases. The duration of this phase depends on the battery capacity, charger capacity and any consumers connected to the battery during charging. The bigger the battery, the longer this step takes; the larger the charger, the shorter the stage. If a consumer such as a refrigerator is connected, it will also need to be powered by the charger, reducing the charge current going to the batteries and increasing the time necessary for charging. Second step: ABSORPTION phase The second step, the absorption phase, begins once the battery has reached its maximum voltage. At this point the battery is around 80% full, and the charge voltage begins to slowly decrease. At 25 °C, the maximum voltage is 14.25 Volts for a 12 V battery and 28.5 Volts for a 24 V one. The absorption phase lasts three to four hours on average, depending on the battery type and the extent to which the battery was charged at the beginning. During this stage the battery will be charged to 100%. Third step: FLOAT phase Once the battery is fully charged at the end of the absorption phase, the float phase begins. The Mastervolt battery charger switches over to a maintenance voltage so that the battery remains fully charged and in optimum condition. Any existing consumer loads are also powered. The charger remains in the float phase until the battery voltage falls due to a major load, or the battery charger is unplugged because the shore power connection was removed.

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PLUS phase

Can I charge different types of Lithium Ion batteries?

Most Mastervolt battery chargers are equipped with an extra

Yes, that is no problem with a Mastervolt battery charger because

step, the PLUS phase. During periods when the battery is

the desired charge characteristic can be set.

resting, an absorption cycle lasting one hour will take place every 12 days to ensure that the battery plates stay in perfect

Can multiple battery chargers be parallel connected?

condition. This enhances the conservation of your batteries.

In addition to simply being chargers, Mastervolt battery chargers also provide power for the 12 or 24 Volt onboard system.

Return Amps

They can easily be parallel connected should you wish to

During the absorption phase, the battery accepts progressively

increase capacity. In fact, this is often the only way to power

less current. Once the charge current remains under a certain

your 12 or 24 Volt system with the 230 or 380 Volt shore power

level for a given period of time, the battery is considered to be

connection. Similarly, should you need a charge current higher

fully charged. This maximum charge current is called the Return

than 100 amps for a 24 V system or 80 amps for a 12 V system,

Amps, and the corresponding period the Return Amps Time.

several battery chargers can be parallel connected. A parallel

The battery charger takes this as a signal to switch over to the

system with multiple battery chargers does not require any

next step, the float phase. Just like many other parameters of

special equipment. It can be installed in exactly the same way

the battery charger, Return Amps and Return Amps Time can

as a single charger, except that each charger will have its own

be set by the installer with the help of software that is freely

cables leading to the battery or the DC distribution.

available on the Mastervolt website. In fact, the installer can use this software to customise the battery charger to your onboard

Wiring for the voltage compensation is also connected

system requirements.

separately for each charger: Remember to make sure that the sense wires used to compensate for voltage loss over the cables

What is a temperature sensor for? It is vital that you use the right charge voltage to charge a battery. The correct charge voltage is not always the same however: Cold batteries need a slightly higher voltage to fully charge and, conversely, warmer batteries require a lower charge voltage to avoid overcharging. Mastervolt battery chargers are pre-set to a battery temperature of 25 °C.

are connected before the main fuse and on the system side. This will prevent the output voltage of the charger from becoming too high if a fuse is defective. The temperature sensor for each charger needs to be separately connected to the battery that you expect to reach the highest temperature. If the chargers and sensors are properly linked, the requisite charge current will be evenly distributed over the connected chargers.

When the temperature sensor is connected to the charger, the output voltage will vary by 0.03 V per °C (for a 12 Volt system) and 0.06 V per °C (for a 24 Volt system). This is in accordance with the advice of most battery manufacturers. At a temperature of 15 °C, for instance, the maximum charge voltage for a 12 Volt system is 14.55 Volt, and at 30 °C it is 14.1 Volt (the corresponding values for a 24 Volt system are 29.1 and 28.2 Volt). Voltage is no longer increased once temperatures drop below 12 °C, ensuring that the onboard system is protected against excessive voltage. Conversely, the charge voltage is reduced to 12 or 24 Volt above 55 °C in order to protect the battery against overcharging at this extremely high temperature. The connection of a temperature sensor ensures that the battery is quickly and safely charged with the right voltage.

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The possibility remains that one of the chargers will switch to the absorption phase sooner than the others. This is a perfectly normal phenomenon caused by tolerances in the adjustment, with no effect on charge time and charger operation. When parallel connecting multiple battery chargers, we recommend that they be of the same model, type and charge capacity. For instance, when a 100 amps charger is linked parallel to a 50 amps charger, the charge current will not be evenly distributed over both. Although this will not affect the charging process or be detrimental for the chargers, it is more efficient to install two chargers of 75 amps each. Mass battery chargers are also capable of synchronising the charging process. Can I parallel connect a battery charger to the alternator? It is possible to parallel connect a battery charger with, for instance, the alternator of the propulsion engine. This situation occurs if the 230 V generator is also started up while the engine is running, and is not a problem in itself. How can I charge batteries with limited shore power? The available shore power connection is often too weak when multiple battery chargers are fitted in parallel. In order to prevent the shore power connection from being overloaded, it is best to only connect one of the battery chargers. Although this will increase the time needed for charging, you are normally moored for a longer period of time (overnight) anyway. Both battery chargers can be powered if the generator is running, as the generator usually delivers more output than a shore power connection. The two battery chargers will not cause the shore power connection to be overloaded.

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Mastervolt battery charger alarms The Mass battery chargers come standard with alarms. The following alarm signals are indicated on the Read Out Module on the front of the Mass chargers via LED combinations: 1&6 = Voltage sense error 2&6 = Battery charger temperature too high 3&6 = Short-circuit on output 4&6 = Battery voltage too high/low 5&6 = Battery temperature sensor error In addition to these visual alarms, all Mass battery chargers have a potential-free relay contact. A) Charger Status Interface (CSI) with combined DC alarm, active as standard

Relay contact is activated (no alarm) if: • Charger on (AC on input, switch turned to ‘on’). • Temperature sensor within range. • DC voltage within range. • No short-circuit on output. • Voltage sense (cable loss less than 3 V). Relay contact is disabled (alarm situation) if: • Charger off (no AC on input, switch turned to ‘off’). • Temperature sensor out of range.

The DC alarm only works if the battery charger is switched

• DC voltage out of range.

on. If you require a permanent DC alarm, regardless of

• Short-circuit on output.

whether the charger has input voltage and/or the charger is

• Voltage sense (cable loss more than 3 V).

turned on, select the DC Alarm setting (see overleaf). A separate CSI alarm is optionally available for the Mass battery chargers and is placed in the connection box (if you require multiple alarms). Art. no. 21702000.

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B) DC alarm, active after programming dipswitch Relay contact is activated (no alarm) if: • DC voltage is within range Relay contact is disabled (alarm situation) if: • DC voltage is out of range The DC alarm works whether or not the charger has input voltage and/or the charger is turned on or off. Programming of the dipswitch is marked with continuous monitoring mode (ContMon). Optional: A separate DC alarm is available for all Mass battery chargers and is placed in the connection box (if you require multiple alarms). Art. no. 21702100. Alarms - schematic Front panel indication by means of LED combination: 1&6 = Voltage sense error 2&6 = Battery charger temperature too high 3&6 = Short-circuit on output 4&6 = Battery voltage too low/high 5&6 = Battery temperature sensor error

Alarm options/settings:

A

B

Non continous mode

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C.S.I. / dc alarm

Continous mode

dc high/low alarm

N.C. = charger off, or failure

N.C. = battery voltage out of range

N.O. = charger on, and non failure

N.O. = battery voltage in range

common

common

Internal alarm contact


For professional use: GMDSS For the professional user, there is a front display with alarm functions according to GMDSS available. The GMDSS (“Global Maritime Distress and Safety System”) is a global maritime communication system which is part of SOLAS (Safety Of Life At Sea), using DSC and satellite Mass Charger Interface

communications.

Every Mass battery charger can be equipped with an intelligent front panel. The Mass Charger Alarm Interface combines the following functions: • LCD display: DC voltage and charge/discharge current. • Alarm functions: DC high/low voltage alarm visual/acoustic and potential-free contact. • Alarm functions: AC alarm, no input voltage AC visual/ acoustic and potential-free contact. • CSI-alarm: Charger Status Interface, charger error visual/ acoustic and potential-free contact. The Mass Charger Interface makes your Mass battery charger suitable as a power supply/battery charger for devices such as GMDSS emergency systems for seagoing vessels and yachts. The alarm settings, charge current and charging method can easily be adapted using the LCD display and control button, and the front display can be easily and quickly installed on the charger. The Mass Charger Alarm Interface is optional and is delivered complete with shunt and detailed manual. The battery charger needs to be separately ordered.

Operating principle:

• Battery – DC voltage • Battery – charge/discharge current • Battery charger – output voltage • Battery charger – output current

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Frequently asked questions about inverters How much battery capacity do I need with an inverter? As a rule, the battery capacity for a 12 Volt system is around 20% of the inverter capacity. For 24 Volt inverters, it is 10%. The battery capacity for a 12 Volt Mass Sine 12/1200, for instance, is 240 Ah, while a 24 Volt Mass Sine 24/1500 inverter would require at least 150 Ah. How much power does an inverter consume? Mastervolt sine wave inverters have an output efficiency of at least 92%, which is the maximum that can be achieved with modern technology. Power loss due to the conversion process therefore amounts to approx. 8%. If you connect an 850 W coffee maker to a Mass sine wave inverter, consumption will be 850 W divided by the onboard voltage of 12 Volt, i.e. 70 A. Add another 8% (100% - 92% = 8%) to this total for the inverter consumption, and you reach a total power consumption of 70 + 6 = 76 A. Of course, a coffee maker will only be in use for a short period of time, so the consumption measured in Ah will be relatively modest (76 x 5 min. = 6.5 Ah). As a rule you should divide the connected capacity by 10 for 12 Volts and by 20 for 24 Volts. This also includes all the power losses in the cables and the inverter. Is there a stand-by switch on the inverter? Definitely! Most Mastervolt inverters and Combis are even equipped with two energy saving solutions. Activating the Economy mode reduces battery consumption by an extra 10%. A dipswitch or jumper arrangement needs to be adjusted for this function, which takes output voltage down to 208 Volt, thereby also reducing power consumption from the battery. Low-load devices like microwaves and DVD clocks function as normal at this lower voltage. With some inverter models it is even possible to activate a stand-by mode.

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In this mode the inverter sets a tiny pulse on the 230 Volts installation, checking for any connected appliances. As soon as the pulse detects consumption, voltage returns to normal strength to power the connected equipment. The economy mode ensures that the power consumption of the inverter stays at virtually zero. Can I power a computer with an inverter? Yes, you can. All Mastervolt sine wave inverters can easily and safely supply a computer without the slightest problem or risk. In fact, the output voltage from an inverter is often better than that from the electricity grid. This is why Mastervolt inverters, combined with a battery charger and a battery set, are often used as a shore back-up system in places where the grid connection is unreliable. Laptops can also be powered by an inverter.


Can a microwave be powered with an inverter?

inverter is using: For 12 Volt inverters, divide the connected

Any microwave model can be connected to a Mastervolt

load by 10; for 24 Volt inverters, divide by 20.

inverter. Bear in mind that an 800 Watt microwave consumes 1200 to 1300 Watt from the 230 Volt system, and that the

How thick should my battery cables be?

capacity of the inverter must be able to handle this. Apart

Using the method described above, calculate how much power

from that, the total consumption of the microwave-inverter

your inverter will be drawing at maximum capacity (120 amps

combination is moderate: Using the microwave for five

in the case of a Mass Sine 12/1200, for example). Then count

minutes will use around 8 Ah on a 12 Volt system and 4 Ah on

3 amps per mm². In the above example this is 120 divided by

a 24 Volt system.

3 = 40 mm². The standard cable thickness closest to that is 35 mm². This rule applies to cables up to three metres in

Are there any appliances that cannot be powered

length. If the inverter is further away from the battery, choose

by an inverter?

the next size up (50 mm² for instance).

You can connect almost any appliance to an inverter, with a few practical exceptions. While heavy loads, such as that

Does an inverter need a lot of ventilation?

required by an electric heater, can be supplied by the inverter,

An inverter needs very little ventilation - two approx. 60 cm²

battery capacity will usually be insufficient to maintain the

ventilation openings are usually enough. Larger inverters, from

supply for any significant length of time. Appliances that are

1500 W upwards, need twice that size. Inverters used in high

only used for a limited time period, such as washing machines,

ambient temperatures, and those expected to be operating at

driers or a small hotplate, should be fine as long as the battery

full capacity for a long period, require openings that are four

has sufficient capacity. In these cases it is advisable to use a

times as large.

power source such as an alternator, which also powers the battery. Keep in mind that heavy users such as engines, pumps,

Example: How much does an inverter consume

air conditioning and fridges have a starting current that is

with a 400W load connected?

between 5 to 10 times higher than the nominal absorbed

For a 12 V inverter such as a Mass Sine 12/1200, consumption

capacity. The inverter has to be able to supply accordingly.

will be 400/10 = approx 40 amps. For a 24 V inverter, say a Mass 24/1500, the corresponding

How much current will an inverter draw from

figure is 400/20 = approx 20 amps.

my batteries?

It is important to remember that this is only an approximation:

This depends on the equipment connected to the inverter.

The actual consumption will tend to be some 5 to 15% less,

There is a simple method to calculate how much power your

depending on the load type.

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Can an inverter be used in parallel with the generator or shore power? No, stand-alone inverters cannot function in parallel with a generator or shore power. A Mastervolt Mass Combi is the solution if you need more power than is available from the shore power connection or the generator. If shore or generator power is connected to the onboard grid simultaneously with an inverter, we strongly advise installing a Masterswitch or Systemswitch junction. The main function of

What are trapezoidal or square wave inverters?

the Masterswitch is the automatic and safe switching between

Modern inverters generate a sine wave-shaped output current

shore, generator and inverter power.

similar to that of the public grid and perfectly suited to powering sensitive equipment. Trapezoidal inverters, also called

What is no-load consumption?

modified sine wave, are the ancestors of the modern sine wave

No-load consumption measures the amount of power used

inverters. As the name suggests, they generate an output

by the inverter during periods of no load while the inverter

current in the shape of a trapezium. This type of current is

is still switched on. With modern inverters, this amount is

inappropriate for sensitive equipment. The square wave

approximately 4 Watt. Mastervolt inverters are equipped

inverter, in turn, is the predecessor of the trapezoidal inverter

with an economy mode (see stand-by switch) so that no-load

and represents the first generation of inverters. It is also

consumption can be reduced even further.

unsuitable for delicate equipment.

What is efficiency? An inverter uses a small amount of energy during the conversion process. The difference between the input and the output is expressed in percentages. The efficiency of modern inverters is 92%. This means that 8% of capacity

Square

Trapezoidal or modified sine wave

is used to convert battery voltage to 230 Volt 50 Hz. A connected load of 250 Watt, for instance, requires

The best choice is a Mastervolt inverter with a sine wave-shaped

around 270 Watt to be supplied by the batteries

output current. This will ensure you problem-free operation of the connected equipment.

Efficiency versus capacity:

efficieny

Sine wave

Can I power a small air conditioning system via the inverter? It is perfectly possible to power a small air conditioning installation of, for instance, 4500-6000 BTU via an inverter. While it is important to remember not to leave the air conditioning running for too long, cooling down a cabin before power

going to bed is fine as long as the battery set and inverter are correctly calibrated with this type of power consumption in mind. Also remember to pay attention to the start up current, which can be up to five times higher than nominal capacity.

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Can I cook with electric appliances using an inverter? Cooking is definitely possible with an inverter as long as the battery set is reasonably large and the inverter has a capacity of at least 2 kW. The preparation of a complete meal will, in general, require the generator to be activated or shore power to be plugged in. Switching on the generator to heat up a cup of soup or cook a steak or an egg is rather wasteful, since the generator will not even warm up properly before it is turned off again: This is bad for the generator and environmentally unsound. Instead, we recommend that you power one of the hotplates via the inverter - a snack can then still be prepared or heated without needing to start the generator. The inverter can also power the entire electric cooker, as long as a 5 to 10 kW inverter is combined with a battery of 24 Volt (with a minimum capacity of 600 Ah). Just remember to recharge the battery with the alternator or battery charger after use.

Inverter selection table AC appliances

AC Master 300 W

AC Master 500/750 W AC Master 1350 W Mass Sine 800 W Mass Sine 1200/1500 W

Mass Sine 2000/2500 W

Mass Sine 5000 W

Battery capacity 12 V/min.

80 Ah

100 Ah

200 Ah

300 Ah

600 Ah

Battery capacity 24 V/min.

40 Ah

50 Ah

120 Ah

200 Ah

400 Ah

• TV/DVD/audio • NiCad battery charger • PC/laptop • small drill • fluorescent lights • small kitchen appliances • small refrigerator • small microwave • coffee maker • hairdryer (1000W) • vacuum cleaner/microwave • refrigerator/freezer • angle grinder • water pump • heavy tools • microwave/oven • washing machine 3 kg • air conditioning/electric hob

Appliance can operate continuously if connected to inverter, capacity of battery decides operation time. Appliance or tool can operate for a reasonable amount of time (not continuously). Use next model.

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Frequently asked questions about Combis What battery capacity do I need to fit a Mass Combi 12/2000 or 24/2000? A simple rule of thumb states that a 12 Volt system needs a minimum battery capacity of around 20% of the inverter capacity, while the corresponding figure for 24 Volt inverters is 10%. The battery capacity required for a 12 Volt Mass Combi 2000 is therefore 400 Ah, and that needed for a 24 Volt Mass Combi 2000 is 200 Ah. Is the Mass Combi noisy? How much power does a Combi use up?

HF technology has rendered large low frequency transformers

The output efficiency of Mastervolt equipment is very high due

obsolete, so you no longer have the irritating humming sound

to the application of high frequency (HF) technology, which

generated by equipment with a large transformer. An ultra

allows greater energy to be drawn from the same battery.

quiet and temperature-regulated ventilator takes care of

If the Mass Combi needs to power a Senseo coffee machine

cooling, ensuring that noise levels are kept very low. The

(1450 Watt), for instance, power consumption will be 1450

only remaining sound is the soft hum of the cooling air. A

Watt divided by the onboard voltage of 12 Volt = 120 amps.

Mass Combi can therefore be installed virtually anywhere

Making a cup of coffee takes less than a minute, so

on your boat

consumption in Ah can be considered fairly small at 120 x 1 min = 2 Ah. The power used by the inverter itself is negligible. Does the Combi need a lot of ventilation? The Combi needs very little ventilation - two approx. 80 cm² (9 x 9 cm) ventilation openings are usually sufficient. Inverters that are used in high ambient temperatures, or are expected to be operating at full capacity for a long period, require openings that are at least four times as large. How thick should the battery cables be? To calculate the right cable size, determine the highest possible current which will flow through the cable. For the Combi this is the inverter current. When running at full capacity, the inverter draws around 200 amps from the batteries (100 amps for a 24 Volt system). The rule is simple: For every 3 amps you need 1 mm² in cable thickness. The advice for a Combi 12/2000 would thus be 70 mm² cable thickness and 35 mm² for a 24 Volt version.

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Can I reduce the shore power intake in situations where shore power is limited? Yes. The Mass Combi comes with Power Sharing and the Power Support function. Power Sharing ensures that the Do I need a transfer system?

battery charger in the Combi automatically switches to a

A transfer system is not needed when there is only one

lower capacity as soon as a given preset value is reached.

230 Volt connection. The Mass Combi comes with a transfer

This value usually corresponds to the available shore power

system between the incoming current and the inverter current.

fuse or generator capacity. The current required by the

Incoming 230 Volt power current is automatically directed to

battery charger and the current required to power connected

the outlet and the batteries are charged. The inverter will

equipment are added up. Should the total exceed the

immediately take over should the 230 Volt input drop or be

pre-set critical value, the battery charger current will be

switched off, resulting in virtually no interruption. Once a

automatically reduced to the extent where shore or

230 Volt input is available again, it will be plugged back in

generator power intake is equal to the pre-set value. The

immediately after synchronisation. If you have a second

battery charger can even be set to operate at zero-amps

230 Volt power source (such as a generator) you will need a

charge current. If the output load of the Combi exceeds

manual switch or Masterswitch transfer system.

the preset value of, for instance, the shore power fuse, the system will quickly switch back to the inverter: This prevents

Can I power a computer with a Combi?

the shore power fuse from blowing or the generator from

Yes, the Mass Combi can easily and safely supply a computer

becoming overloaded. Once the current required to power

without the slightest problem or risk. The Combi can even

the connected equipment becomes lower - when a number

function as an emergency power system. If, for instance, the

of appliances have been turned off, for example - then the

230 Volt grid drops, the Combi will automatically switch over

system will switch back to incoming current and the batteries

to inverter operation. As the switching time is very short and

will be recharged again. The value for maximum power intake

the inverter was already keeping up with the incoming current

can be adjusted via the optional remote control panels or by

in standby-mode, the computer will usually continue to work

dipswitches in the equipment.

normally. Once the mains is restored, the system switches back to charger operation and the incoming current from the shore or generator again powers the computer. The Mass Combi MasterAdjust software allows you to set the minimum level of shore or generator power at which the inverter is

Can a Combi power a microwave?

switched on.

Yes, all microwave models can be connected to a Mastervolt Combi. Bear in mind that an 800 Watt microwave consumes

Does the Mass Combi work with washing machines?

1200 to 1300 Watt from the 230 Volts system, and that the

The Mass Combi can easily power a washing machine. One

capacity of the inverter must be able to handle this. Apart

whole washing cycle will, on average, take 80-100 Ah (with a

from this, the total consumption of the microwave is modest:

12 Volt system), and 40-50 Ah (with a 24 Volt system). Most

Five minutes of microwave use will consume around 8 Ah on

of the energy is used to heat up the water, so consumption is

a 12 Volt system and 4 Ah on a 24 Volt system. A combination

properly correlated to the water temperature. Washing your

microwave with oven and grill can also be connected to the

laundry will put considerable strain on your battery for a

Mass Combi. As power consumption will be high when the

short period of time, so it is important that battery capacity be

oven and the microwave are used simultaneously, you will

sufficient: 600 Ah should be enough for a 12 Volt system and

need a robust battery of at least 400 Ah for 12 Volt and 200

300 Ah for a 24 Volt one.

Ah for 24 Volt.

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The Mass Combi 2 kW and 4 kW models come with an ICC remote control panel.

Can I parallel connect Mass Combis? Yes, the Mastervolt Mass Combi 2000 or 2500 Watts can be parallel connected without any problem. Such a set-up means that you both double the inverter capacity as well as the charger capacity. With more batteries or a need to power more equipment, parallel connect a second Combi to the existing one. This doubles the available inverter capacity to 4 kWatts and increases the charge capacity to 200 amps (for the 12 Volt version) or 120 amps (for the 24 Volt version). No additional equipment is required, apart from the connection of a few signal cables. It will, however, be necessary to adapt wire and cable diameters in the system to cope with the increased capacity. All Mass Combi models can also be parallel connected to a generator or shore power. What is the power support function? Mastervolt Mass Combis are equipped with an extremely advanced system to prevent the shore power fuse from becoming overloaded. The output current of the battery charger is reduced as soon as there is a risk of this happening. If this proves insufficient, the system rapidly switches to inverter operation so that the battery temporarily powers a part of the connected load. Since the inverter will already have been synchronised and the switching is so fast, computers will continue functioning, as will clocks and timers on, for instance, microwave ovens. Once the load decreases, the system switches back to shore power and the battery charger returns to charging the batteries. Your Combis can also therefore function as an efficient emergency power system. Although Mastervolt Mass Combi 4 kW models are constructed from two 2 kW units, their highly compact structure means they take up little space. Each of them is connected to a remote control panel that allows the Combi to be remotely monitored and switched on and off. If you require an even larger inverter capacity, a system of battery chargers and inverters can be used. Mastervolt inverters are available up to a capacity of 15 kW, which is sufficient to supply even the largest system.

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Example 1: Higher consumption than is available from the shore.

0 A AC

1

Mass Combi inverter/charger combination.

2

MasterView Easy, control panel for all devices in a MasterBus network.

3

Generator.

8 A AC

4

Masterswitch transfer system.

3,5 kW

5

Service battery, gel.

6

MasterShunt.

7

Starter battery, AGM.

8

Inverter output.

9

High Power output.

6 A AC 8 A AC

153 A DC

Same shore power fuse as above diagram: 230 V/6 A. Several 230 V appliances are switched on, consuming 3.5 kW. A total of 16 amps is required. The additional 230 V (6 A) is supplied via the service battery and the Mass Combi. Automatic switching off prevents excessive discharge of the batteries. You can program the setting via Power Sharing in the Mass Combi, or remotely using the MasterView Easy panel.

Example 2: No shore power - only generator and battery power.

12 A AC

1

Mass Combi inverter/charger combination.

2

MasterView Easy, control panel for all devices in a MasterBus network.

3

Generator.

15 A AC

4

Masterswitch transfer system.

5,1 kW

5

Service battery, gel.

7 A AC

6

MasterShunt.

7

Starter battery, AGM.

8

Inverter output.

9

High Power output.

0 A AC

192 A DC

In this case the generator is the source of power and makes the system entirely independent. The generator can both charge the batteries and provide power to the connected consumers. The Mass Combi regulates supply and demand and the MasterShunt can automatically start the generator. In case of a large power demand - in the diagram 5.1 kW - the Mass Combi provides an additional 230 V power from the service battery in parallel with the generator. This is how this configuration is able to supply 5.1 kW with a 3.5 kW generator.

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All you need to know about alternators To quickly charge the batteries while the engine is running we recommend a second ‘high output’ Mastervolt alternator on the engine. Why a Mastervolt alternator? Standard alternators, originally designed for the car industry, only deliver sufficient energy to both charge the batteries and power the various onboard consumers when they reach a very high rpm. These alternators also tend to be temperature-sensitive: In a higher ambient temperature, such as that common in the engine room of a boat, their output quickly falls by up to 50%. This is not a problem in cars as the small amount of energy used during, for instance, starting can be recharged in no time, and windscreen wipers, ventilators and the like do not need a great deal of power. In general, a car engine also runs at a far higher rpm compared to a boat’s diesel engine, and the temperature under the bonnet is lower due to the cooling effect of the head wind. Specially designed for ships Mastervolt Alpha alternators are specially designed to provide sufficient power even with a low rpm. A pulley ratio of 1:3 and an engine idle speed of around 700-800 rpm will generate substantial current for charging the battery sets and powering the connected equipment. Mastervolt alternators are also resistant to the high temperature of the engine room, allowing the engine to serve as the energy source for onboard consumers and as a quick charger for the service and starter batteries. Make sure you do not choose too small an alternator. A larger one will ensure that the battery is charged faster and engine hours are kept to a minimum we suggest choosing an amperage of between 30 and 50% of the battery capacity.

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Alpha Pro charge regulator, standard with the Mastervolt alternator.


More output Mastervolt alternators offer a much higher output than the alternators usually supplied with engines. As a result, the standard single belt is insufficient to transfer the power from the engine to the alternator. Two belts are required and the pulley of the engine will often need to be changed With special voltage regulator

as well. Your engine supplier can help you choose an

In addition to having to provide high current at low rpm,

appropriate double pulley and give advice on setting up

onboard alternators also require good voltage regulation.

the alternator. In order to handle the high output you

The standard alternator designed for road vehicles has a

will also have to adjust the alternator support. More

voltage regulator mounted to the alternator and set to

information on alternators and installation diagrams are

14 or 28 Volt. This is sufficient for a car battery, which is

available at www.mastervolt.com/alternators

rarely if ever discharged. Furthermore, the voltage regulator of a car is often temperature sensitive and in high temperatures regulates the voltage even further down, often to 13.5 or 26.5 Volt. This is way too low for sufficiently recharging a depleted battery. The maximum remaining battery capacity appropriate for these voltage levels is around 60 to 70%. The lifespan of a battery is therefore significantly lower if it is never properly charged. In order to adequately recharge a partially empty or completely flat battery at 25 ยบC, voltage would need to be 14.25 Volt for a 12 Volt battery and 28.5 Volt for a 24 Volt one. Once the battery is 100% full, this voltage must be reduced to 13.25 or 26.5 Volt to prevent the batteries from becoming overcharged. Alpha Pro charge regulator The Alpha Pro charge regulator, delivered as standard with Mastervolt alternators, automatically adjusts the voltage according to the same charge characteristic as found in Mastervolt battery chargers. The batteries are charged with a high voltage of 14.25 or 28.5 Volt until full, at which point the voltage is reduced to a lower level. The Alpha Pro charge regulator is also equipped with a temperature sensor, which should be attached directly to the batteries. The charge voltage is thus adjusted exactly according to the battery temperature and is not influenced by the ambient temperature of the alternator itself. Ungrounded - also for aluminium vessels Mastervolt alternators are delivered ungrounded, i.e. the negative pole of the alternator is not connected to the alternator casing but has a separate connection. This means that they are also suitable for aluminium boats, where the negative pole is not allowed to be connected to the hull.

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The battery as power source There are different kinds of rechargeable batteries. The most common and on ships the most used type is the lead acid battery. A less familiar one is the nickel-cadmium (NiCad) battery, which can still often be found in old emergency power systems. Due to the complex charge method required by a NiCad battery, and the fact that they are environmentally unfriendly, these batteries are not suitable for use onboard a boat. The principle of the lead acid battery A battery is a device that converts electric power into chemical energy. This energy can be converted into electric power for DC consumers such as lighting and starter engines. A battery consists of several cells with a voltage of 2 Volt each. For a 12 Volt battery, six cells are connected in series and fitted inside a single casing. To achieve 24 Volt, two 12 Volt batteries are connected in series. Each cell has positive oxidised lead plates and negative lead metal plates, and an electrolyte consisting of water and sulphuric acid. Together they create a galvanic element of 2 Volt. During discharge, the lead oxide on the lead plates is converted into lead sulphate. The acid level decreases because sulphuric acid is required for this process. To recharge the battery, an external power source - such as a battery charger, alternator or solar panel - with a voltage of around 2.38 Volt per cell must be connected. The lead sulphate will then be converted back into lead and lead oxide, and the sulphuric acid content will rise. There are limits set for the charge voltage to prevent the release of an excessive amount of hydrogen. A charge voltage of more than 2.4 Volt per cell, for instance, releases a lot of hydrogen gas, which forms the highly explosive oxyhydrogen when it comes into contact with oxygen in the air. The upper limit on charge voltage for a 12 Volt battery is 14.25 Volt, and the corresponding value for a 24 Volt battery is 28.5 Volt, both at 25 째C. The relationship between how full a battery is and the specific gravity of the water/sulphuric acid mixture is as follows:

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percentage charged

battery voltage

specific gravity

percentage discharged

0%

11,64 Volt

1,100

100%

20%

11,88 Volt

1,140

80%

40%

12,09 Volt

1,175

60%

60%

12,30 Volt

1,210

40%

80%

12,51 Volt

1,245

20%

100%

12,72 Volt

1,280

0%

Different types of battery - in terms of the thickness and number of plates per cell - correspond to different applications. The maximum current that can be delivered is determined by the total plate surface. The number of times that a battery can be discharged and recharged - the number of cycles - depends on the thickness of the plates. A battery casing of the same size and the same weight can be filled up with either many thin plates or a few thick ones. The starter battery A starter battery has many thin plates per cell, leading to a large total plate surface. This type of battery is, therefore, suitable for delivering a high level of current over a short period of time. The number of times that a starter battery can be heavily discharged is limited to around 50. However, as starting the engine uses only a small part of the energy stored (around 0.01%), the battery lasts a number of years. This type of battery is unsuitable for cyclic use as a service battery. The semi-traction battery A semi-traction battery has fewer but thicker plates in each cell. These batteries supply a relatively lower starter current, but can be discharged more often and to a greater extent (200 to 500 full cycles). This kind of battery is highly appropriate for the combined function of starter/service battery.

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The traction battery

The Lithium Ion battery

This type of battery has even fewer, but

Until now Lithium Ion batteries were

very thick, flat or cylindrical plates. It can

mainly available as chargeable

therefore be discharged many times and

batteries with a small capacity, which

fairly completely (1000 full cycles). This is

made them popular for use in mobile

why traction batteries are often used in

phones and laptops. Now Mastervolt

forklifts and small electrical equipment

offers Lithium Ion batteries with large capacities.

such as industrial-grade cleaning machines.

Our Lithium Ion batteries have a high energy density and

Traction batteries require a special charging method.

are perfect for cyclic applications. Compared to traditional

Their tall size makes them sensitive to the accumulation of

lead acid batteries, Lithium Ion batteries offer savings of up

sulphuric acid at the bottom of the battery container. This

to 70% in volume and weight, while the number of charging

phenomenon is called stratification and occurs because

cycles is three times higher. An added benefit is that Lithium

sulphuric acid is denser than water. Acid content increases

Ion batteries can supply a constant capacity, regardless of the

in the lower part of the battery, intensifying local plate

connected load. The available capacity of a lead acid battery

corrosion, and decreases in the upper part, reducing capacity.

is reduced in case of larger discharge currents. Lithium Ion

The battery is discharged unevenly, significantly reducing its

batteries can be discharged to 80% without affecting their

lifespan. In order to spread the acid out evenly, the battery

lifespan, whereas lead acid batteries are more affected by

has to be purposefully overloaded using excessive voltage.

deep discharge and can only be discharged to 50% of the

This generates a large amount of hydrogen gas, which can

available capacity.

form the dangerous oxyhydrogen once mixed with oxygen in the air. The voltage required to recharge these batteries is around 2.7 Volt per cell, or 16.2 Volt for a 12 V system and 32.4 Volt for a 24 V system. These high levels of voltage are very dangerous for the connected equipment and the large amount of gas generated makes these batteries unsuitable for use onboard boats.

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Lasts longer Lithium Ion batteries also offer major benefits compared to nickel-cadmium batteries, such as a much larger power density and a longer lifespan. And because lithium is the lightest metal, Lithium Ion batteries are also more lightweight. They can also be charged at any time, while nickel-cadmium batteries require complete discharge for an optimal performance and to prevent memory effect. Furthermore, Lithium Ion batteries can be charged with a very high current, up to 100% of the capacity, resulting in a very short charging time and no memory effect. Cell Management System Lithium Ion batteries can be charged many times over, but not infinitely. A disadvantage of Lithium Ion batteries is the natural imbalance between stronger and weaker cells. In the charging process, one or more cells will reach their maximum charge level faster due to this imbalance, while others do not get fully charged. The latter cells will be discharged faster, causing the battery to switch sooner due to under-voltage and reducing the lifespan of the battery. To prevent this, Mastervolt Lithium Ion batteries are equipped with a Cell Management System that automatically compensates for the imbalance between the cells and increases the lifespan.

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Frequently asked questions about batteries How long will it take before my battery is discharged? This depends on its capacity and the amount of power consumed by the connected equipment. As a rule, the faster a battery is discharged, the less power it supplies. This also works the other way around: The longer it takes before a battery discharges, the more energy you can get from it. A 100 Ah battery supplies a current of 5 amps for 20 hours, during which time the voltage does not drop below 10.5 Volt. This amounts to 100 Ah. If a 100 amps consumer is connected to the same battery, however, the battery will be able to power it for only 45 minutes. After this time the battery voltage will fall to 10.5 Volt and the battery will be empty, having supplied no more than 75 Ah. Connecting a load of 1.2 amps to the same battery will allow it to run for 100 hours before the battery voltage drops to 10.5 Volt. It will then have supplied 120 Ah. How long will my battery last? The lifespan of a battery is related to how often and to what extent it is discharged, with proper charging with the right charger also being crucial. At a normal frequency of use for holidays and weekends, a lifespan of between five and seven years is quite common for gel and AGM batteries. When batteries are frequently discharged you will need to adjust the capacity. There is also an option to use 2 Volt cells. A lifespan of 15 years is not exceptional for this type of battery as long as they have the right capacity. Lithium Ion batteries are top of the bill. You can discharge and recharge them super fast and they last up to three times longer than other types of batteries. What is series connection and parallel connection? A series connection is used to increase voltage, while keeping capacity at the same level. Two serially connected 12 V/100 Ah batteries make a combined battery set of 24 V/100 Ah. In a series connection, the positive pole of one battery is connected to the negative pole of the other, with the poles that remain at the ends being connected to the system. Batteries with different capacities should never be linked in series.

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The examples below apply to the use of normal 12 V batteries. Mastervolt also supplies 2 V, 6 V and 24 V batteries; the principle of series and parallel connecting remains the same. Series connection

Series connection 24 V/200 Ah.

Series connection 48 V/200 Ah.

Parallel connection Parallel connection is used when you need to increase your capacity. The positive leads are connected together, as are the negative leads. The cabling from Parallel connection 12 V/400 Ah.

the battery to the system should be: Positive from battery 1 and negative from battery 2 (or the last in the parallel connection).

Series/parallel connection If you need a 24 V battery set with a higher capacity, you can combine series and parallel connections. The cables from the battery to the system must be crossed: Positive from battery 1 and negative from battery 2 (or the last in the parallel connection).

Series/parallel connection 24 V/400 Ah.

Make sure there is sufficient space between the batteries when installing multiple batteries: There should be a ‘finger’ of space between them to allow the heat to be diverted.

119


Can I leave the batteries onboard during winter? This is fine for gel, AGM and Lithium Ion batteries as the lower temperature will actually prolong their lifespan. Remember to charge the batteries completely and to ensure that no consumers are left connected. Voltmeters, timers and car radio memory are some of the stealthy consumers to look out for in this respect. Wet batteries have to be regularly topped up and charged to avoid freezing. It is advisable to connect the boat’s shore power once every two to three weeks so the batteries can be fully recharged.

How should I maintain gel, AGM and Lithium Ion

AGM battery

batteries?

A different type of lead acid

Gel, AGM and Lithium Ion batteries do not need

battery is the AGM (Absorbed

maintenance, which means they can be installed anywhere

Glass Mat) battery. In this

on a boat. However, we recommend checking all the

model, the electrolyte

connections once a year to make sure that they are properly

(water and sulphuric acid) is

attached, and to clean the top surfaces with a slightly moist

absorbed into an extremely delicate glass fibre

cloth. The batteries also need to be completely charged

mat. Just like with any other battery, charging generates

every time for a maximum lifespan, although this is less

hydrogen gas and oxygen, which are transported through the

important for Lithium Ion batteries.

capillary tubes of the glass fibre mat. Once the two gases are recombined, water is once again obtained and subsequently

What are maintenance-free batteries?

reabsorbed into the glass fibre mat. The recombination

Various types of batteries are used in the maritime sector,

process is then complete. The glass fibre mat also serves

each with its own specific characteristics. Here is a summary:

as insulation between the plates, allowing the plates to be close together and leading to very low internal resistance.

Lead-calcium battery

This means that a high discharge current is no problem. The

Lead-calcium batteries are often used in the car industry as

charge current could be a little lower than with gel batteries

starter batteries. These are normal lead acid batteries with

(approx. 30%) because the glass fibre mat is also an efficient

a liquid electrolyte of sulphuric acid and water, but with

heat insulator, and heat generated by charging is gradually

calcium added to the lead in order to minimise hydrogen

conducted to the outside of the case. This requires the

gas production and, therefore, water consumption. Extra

charge current to be somewhat restricted and results in

electrolyte is also added in order to compensate for the

a slightly longer charging time. AGM batteries are highly

natural evaporation of the water. This type of battery is only

suitable for applications requiring a high discharge current,

suitable for small boats of around six to eight metres, and

such as a bowthruster or winches and for medium cycle use.

solely as a starter battery as its structure precludes use as a

The AGM battery is entirely closed and therefore

light or service battery. The lead acid battery is not entirely

maintenance free. If the AGM battery is heavily overcharged,

closed. Hydrogen gas may be released during charging and

for instance due to the use of a (cheap) unregulated battery

is drained through a small opening, usually on the side of

charger, a small amount of hydrogen gas is formed. This gas

the battery. As acid may leak from the opening in certain

escapes through a special vent in the battery casing that is

circumstances, ventilation is needed.

designed to prevent oxygen from entering the battery. Incorrect charging will reduce the battery’s lifespan.

120


The gel battery With wet lead acid batteries that use a liquid electrolyte of water and sulphuric acid, the water is broken down into hydrogen and oxygen during charging, mostly at the end of the charging cycle. These gases subsequently escape through the filler cap. This means water gets used up and must be regularly replenished with distilled (battery) water. The electrolyte in a gel battery is a gel that binds the water with the acid. While the batteries are being filled, the gel heats up and liquefies. After the battery has been filled with the liquefied gel, the gel cools and solidifies. This process results in tiny hairline cracks in the gel between the plates. During the charging process, oxygen O ² is generated on the positive plate and hydrogen H ² on the negative plate.

The cracks in the gel let the gases combine to create water.

The gel then absorbs the water so that no water disappears from the system and no gases are produced. Gel batteries are not a new technology and have been in use since the 1950s. The most important applications are in emergency power systems, telecommunications systems, power supply and, for the last 10 to 15 years, as service batteries in maritime systems. Gel batteries come in two different versions. The 12 Volt design is appropriate for regular use and available in capacities up to 200 Ah. The second design is a 2 Volt traction battery, available in capacities up to 2700 Ah and highly suitable for systems with frequent and significant discharging where a long lifespan is needed. For a battery of 12 or 24 Volt, six or twelve gel batteries need to be connected in series to provide the required voltage. Major benefits of gel batteries include very limited self-discharging, the possibility of a short charging time, and the lack of gas production under normal circumstances. All of this makes gel batteries very suitable for nautical applications. They are also ideal for heavy cyclical applications.

121


What not to do with batteries, especially gel and AGM • Incorrect charge voltage. Too low a voltage means that the battery cannot charge to 100% - the sulphate then hardens on the plates and the battery loses some of its capacity. Excessive voltage causes the batteries to generate gas, leading to water loss and drying out.

• Excessive discharging. Discharging a battery further than its capacity greatly shortens its lifespan.

The Lithium Ion battery

• Too large ripple on the charge voltage. Cheap and old-

Mastervolt’s Lithium Ion batteries

fashioned chargers and alternators often have a

are based on Lithium Ion ferric

significant voltage ripple (voltage variation) in the

phosphate, which has an energy density

output voltage.

three times higher than that of lead acid batteries. Although

• The use of an alternator without a 3-step regulator,

there are materials with an even higher energy density, these

a very high ambient temperature or charging without

are generally considered less safe. Mastervolt’s Lithium Ion

temperature compensation.

batteries are the safest batteries of their kind. A unique feature is their built-in Bidirectional Active Cell Management, or BAC. The system controls voltage, current and

Conclusions and recommendations

temperature, and guarantees optimal safety. Lithium Ion batteries are MasterBus compatible and up to 15% more

• The low internal resistance of AGM batteries makes them

efficient than lead acid batteries. This gives you:

highly suitable for powering winches, windlasses and

• Shorter charging times.

bowthrusters, for starting engines, and for limited

• Less generator use for charging.

cyclic use.

• More power than from a traditional battery of the

• Gel batteries are very suitable as service batteries due

same dimensions.

to the fact that they can be quickly charged and have a

• A lead acid battery, for example, has a DOD (depth of

long lifespan, even with many charge/discharge cycles

discharge) of 50%. This means that you can only use up to

• For a service battery you can choose for either a 6 Volt,

200 Ah from a 400 Ah battery. A Mastervolt Lithium Ion has

12 Volt or 24 Volt version or the 2 Volt model.

a DOD of 80%, almost 60% more usable battery capacity.

• Mastervolt batteries are completely maintenance free

With this percentage, a battery of 400 Ah supplies 320 Ah,

and in normal circumstances do not release acid or

or 120 Ah more.

generate dangerous gas during charging. They are simple

• Lithium Ion batteries are also ideal for electric and hybrid

to install anywhere onboard, such as next to the bilge or

sailing. Mastervolt Lithium Ion batteries can be infinitely

in the engine room (reduced lifespan due to higher

parallel connected.

temperatures). Special battery cases or external

• Another benefit is that Lithium Ion batteries weigh less,

ventilation is usually unnecessary as natural ventilation

require less space and are surprisingly easy to install.

will suffice. • Lithium Ion batteries are definitely the best. They save up to 70% in space and weight, last three times longer and can be recharged and discharged very quickly. A minimum of 2000 charge cycles is no exception. Mastervolt Lithium Ion batteries are now available in two versions: 24 V/160 Ah and 12 V/320 Ah.

122


123


Determining lifespan The average lifespan of a 12 Volt gel or AGM battery is six years if the battery remains unused and is kept in a charged state. After five or six years of float voltage at an average ambient temperature of 25 ºC, the battery still retains 80% of its original capacity. Higher average temperatures will shorten the lifespan of the battery; lower may increase the lifespan. The number of charge and discharge cycles of a 12 Volt battery is strongly correlated to its structure and quality. Mastervolt’s 12 Volt gel or AGM batteries can take around 300 full cycles of being discharged down to 20% and charged back to full capacity. Most manufacturers consider batteries to be spent at a remaining capacity of 80%. This does not, however, mean that the battery has to be replaced immediately. For example, the battery can still be used if only 50% of the battery capacity is actually required. It is therefore not necessary to replace the battery after six years or 300 full cycles. An average use of seven years is perfectly normal for gel and AGM batteries. 2 Volt traction gel batteries The lifespan for 2 Volt traction gel cells is around 10 to 15 years and the maximum number of full cycles is 900 to 1000. When discharging to 50 or 75% of capacity, the number of cycles is 2000 and 4000, respectively. These batteries are therefore highly suitable for larger systems that require intensive use and a very long lifespan.

124


Lithium Ion batteries Mastervolt Lithium Ion batteries have a lifespan of more than 2000 cycles, which is three times longer than lead acid batteries. This can be attributed to a wide range of features including cell management, the negligible self discharge, the absence of ‘memory effect’ (lazy battery effect) and a DOD of 80%.

Which battery suits you best?

AGM 12 V

semi-traction semi-traction semi-traction

Maintenance free

AGM 6 V

MVG 12 V

MVSV 2 V traction

MLI Lithium Ion

traditional open batteries semi-traction

traction

++++

++++

++++

++++

++++

-

Gas formation during charging

+++

+++

+++

+++

+++++

+

Self-discharging while inactive

+++

+++

++++

++++

+++

-

Lifespan with full discharging

++

++

+++

++++

+++++

+

+++

+++

+++

++++

++++

+++++

++

+++

High charge current resistance

++

++

+++

++++

+++++

++

++

Suitable for making high capacity battery set

++

+++

+++

++++

++++

+

+++

Starting engines

++++

+++

+++

++­

++++­

++

-

Shock-resistance

++++

++++

++++

++++

++++

+

+

Number of charge/discharge cycles

++

+++

+++

++++

+++++

+

+++

Temperature-resistance

++

++

++++

++++

++++

+

++

++++

++++

++++

++++

++++

-

Return on investment with limited use

+++

+++

+++

++++

+++

+

++

Return on investment with intensive use

++

++

+++

++++

+++++

+

+

Suitable for electric sailing

++

++++

+++

++++

+++++

+

++

Product warranty

2 years

2 years

2 years

7 years

2 years

Worldwide onboard service

++++

++++

++++

++++

++++

Lifespan with limited discharging

Installation/angle of inclination

+++++ = excellent

++++ = very good

+++ = good

++ = reasonable

+ = not very good

approx. 1 year approx. 1 year +

-

- = insufficient

125


3-Step charging This modern charging technology allows a battery to be quickly

This does not apply to Lithium Ion batteries as these are

and safely charged in three phases (steps). The first step is the

charged to 100% with full current. Once the battery is 100%

bulk phase, in which the battery is charged quickly. The output

charged, the Mastervolt charger automatically switches to the

current of the battery charger is at maximum (100%) during

float phase.

this phase and the battery voltage depends on the charging

126

degree of the battery. The duration of this phase depends on

In this step, the batteries are kept in optimal condition and

the ratio of battery to charger capacity, and on the degree to

the connected users are supplied with power. If power

which the batteries were discharged to begin with. The bulk

consumption is higher than can be supplied by the battery

phase is followed by the absorption phase, which begins once a

charger, the remaining power is supplied by the battery.

battery has been charged to 80% (90% for gel and AGM

The battery is then (partly) discharged and the charger

batteries), and ends when the battery is completely full.

automatically switches back to the bulk phase. If consumption

Battery voltage remains constant throughout this stage, and

is reduced, the charger will start charging the battery again

the charging current depends on the degree to which the

via 3-step charging. A battery charger with 3-step charging

battery was initially discharged, the battery type, the ambient

can remain connected to the battery, even in winter, and

temperature, and so on. With a wet battery this phase lasts

ensures a long lifespan for your batteries as well as being safe

some four hours, with gel and AGM batteries around three.

for the connected equipment.


3-Step

charging characteristic (IUoUo).

Absorption time

Cycle

The duration of the second phase in the charging of a battery.

A battery only lasts a certain number of cycles, depending on

The battery will, in general, be charged from 80 to 100%

its type and quality. One charge/discharge cycle is the process

during this phase, which lasts around four hours with a wet

of discharging a battery to 0% of capacity and recharging it

lead battery, and two to three hours with gel and AGM

back to 100%. Twice recharging after discharging to 50%

batteries. With Lithium Ion batteries the absorption time

is also one cycle, as is four times discharging to 75% and

is very short as they can be charged to 100% with full

recharging. A starter battery, for instance, can take around

current. This phase is automatically set for Mastervolt

50 to 80 cycles, which may seem little but is in practice more

battery chargers.

than sufficient: While the current used for starting an engine is high, it only lasts a short time and represents 0.001 of a

Charge factor

cycle. In other words, an engine can be started 80,000 times

The charge factor indicates the efficiency of a battery. The

before a battery is worn out. A high-quality semi-traction

efficiency of the average wet battery is approximately 80%,

battery lasts for around 250 to 300 cycles.

which means it must be recharged 1.2 times the eventual capacity in Ah to get the same capacity. This translates into

If the battery is only discharged to 50% of capacity, 600

a charge factor of 1.2. The lower the charge factor or the

cycles are available. Assuming 25 weekends of sailing (50

higher the battery efficiency, the better the quality.

days) plus 20 days of holiday and discharging only to 50%, the

Mastervolt’s gel and AGM batteries have a low charge factor

battery will go through 70 half cycles or 35 full cycles. This

of 1.1 to 1.15 and thus offer the very best quality.

means that in theory it will last eight years, which is fairly accurate in the case of gel and AGM batteries.

Discharge factor This is also known as Peukert’s Law, and allows you to determine how long a battery can be used at a given load before it needs recharging.

127


Charging batteries Charge voltage Gel (12 and 2 Volt) and AGM (6 and 12 Volt) batteries need to be charged with a voltage of 2.38 Volt per cell at a temperature of 25 ºC. For a 12 Volt battery set, this corresponds to 14.25 Volt, and for a 24 Volt battery set to 28.5 V. The maximum time that a battery can be charged at this voltage is four hours, after which the voltage has to be reduced to 2.2 Volt per cell, or 13.25 and 26.5 Volt, respectively. Lithium Ion batteries need to be charged with a voltage of 29.2 Volt for a 24 Volt system and 14.6 Volt for a 12 Volt system. The float voltage is 26.5 and 13.25 respectively.

in the abovementioned figure. This means that, with a battery set of 400 Ah and a connected load of 10 amps, battery

With emergency power systems, where gel batteries can be

charger capacity has to be between 70 and 90 amps in order

in float condition for long periods of times (years), the float

to charge the battery in reasonable time. The maximum

voltage needs to be slightly increased to 13.8 and 27.6

charge current is 50% for a gel battery and 30% for an AGM

respectively at a temperature of 25 ºC. As there is always

battery. For a Lithium Ion battery the charge current can be

equipment on boats such as refrigerators that draw power

the same as the capacity. A 100 Ah Lithium Ion battery, for

from a battery even when it is being charged, a maximum

example, can be recharged with 100 amps.

charge voltage has been set to protect the connected appliances. This maximum is 14.55 Volt for a 12 Volt system

The charge system

and 29.1 Volt for a 24 Volt system, which is also the charge

Ensuring the longest possible lifespan for gel, AGM and

voltage applicable at an ambient temperature of 15 ºC.

Lithium Ion batteries requires a modern battery charger

Mastervolt has DC-DC converters that regulate the onboard

with 3-step

voltage to a lower level (13.8 or 27.6 Volt) thus ensuring that

temperature. These battery chargers will constantly

(halogen) lamps do not fail during charging. Mastervolt’s

regulate charge voltage and charge current and adapt the

modern battery chargers come with a temperature sensor

charge voltage to the battery temperature. In order to

for attaching to the battery, which allows the charger to

prevent premature failure of the battery, the ripple voltage

automatically regulate the charge voltage in accordance

of the battery charger has to stay below 5%. If the battery

with battery temperature. Adjusting voltage to high or low

also powers navigation or communication equipment such as

temperatures is not necessary with Lithium Ion batteries.

GPS or VHF, the ripple voltage must be no more than 100 mV

charging and a sensor for measuring battery

(0.1 Volt) or problems may occur with the equipment.

128

The charge current

Another advantage of a low ripple voltage is that onboard

A rule of thumb for gel and AGM batteries states that the

power systems will not be damaged if a battery pole is

minimum charge current should be 15 to 20% of capacity.

corroded or incorrectly attached. A low ripple voltage

Connected equipment usually also needs to be powered

even allows the charger to power the system without being

during charging, so include the power used for that purpose

connected to a battery.


Mastervolt chargers are, of course, all equipped with good voltage regulation that keeps ripple voltage below 100 mV. For GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress Safety System) systems onboard larger ocean-going vessels, the battery charger also has to be equipped with an amp and voltmeter plus an alarm contact. The alarm contact is connected to the ship’s alarm system so that any interruptions to the operation of the charger – due to a cut in the 230 Volt supply, for instance – are detected on time. The optional Mass Charger Interface makes Mass chargers very suitable as GMDSS chargers.

time (H)

voltage (U)

current

25 °C reference temperature

charge voltage in V

voltage (U)

current

battery temperature in °C

time (H) Resistive charge: The WA charge curve.

Temperature compensation curve.

129


Calculating charging time

Taking a battery that is discharged to 50% and applying the

Various factors have to be taken into account when

previous example of a 400 Ah gel battery and an 80 amps

calculating the charging time for a battery. The first

charger, charging up to 100% will take:

consideration is battery output. With a standard wet battery, output is about 80%. This means that 120 Ah has to be charged into the battery in order to be able to draw 100 Ah

Lt =

200x1,1

+ 4h ≈ 7h

80 -10

later. With gel, AGM and Lithium Ion batteries the output is higher - 85 to 90% - so there is less waste and charging time is shorter compared to wet batteries. Another issue that has

Checking the remaining capacity of a sealed AGM

to be considered when calculating charging time is the fact

or gel battery

that the last 20% of the charging process takes four hours

The simplest way to check the remaining capacity or the

(this does not apply to Lithium Ion batteries). In the second

condition of a battery is with an Ah meter, such as

stage, also known as the absorption phase, the battery

Mastervolt’s MasterShunt battery consumption meter.

decides how much power it needs to absorb independently

In addition to charge and discharge current, this monitor also

of the output of the battery charger. The amount of

tracks battery voltage, the number of amp-hours consumed

power depends on the type of battery (wet, AGM, gel or

and how much longer the battery has before it needs recharging.

Lithium Ion) and other factors such as the extent to which

The device also provides data on how often the battery has

it was charged to begin with, temperature, lifespan and the

been discharged and to what extent, with both the average

ambient temperature.

and highest discharge level shown. It is easy to connect to the MasterBus network and, with its integrated system clock

The following formula can be used to calculate the

combined with command-based events, you can program the

charging time of a battery:

system to your preference.

Lt =

Co x eff

+ 4h

Al - Ab

A different but very imprecise method of checking your battery is to measure the voltage, which can only be done when the battery has not been used (discharged) or charged for at least 24 hours. While measuring voltage provides a rough estimation of how discharged a battery is, small variations in voltage make an accurate digital voltmeter essential.

Lt = c harging time Co = capacity drawn from the battery

remaining battery capacity

battery voltage

eff = e fficiency

25%

between 11.7 and 12.3 Volt

1.1 for a gel battery, 1.15 for a AGM battery

and 1.2 for a wet battery

50%

between 12.0 and 12.6 Volt

75%

between 12.1 and 13.0 Volt

100%

between 12.6 and 13.35 Volt

Al = battery charger current Ab = consumption of the connected equipment

The above-mentioned method is only 15-20% accurate

during the charging process

and gives but a rough indication of the power remaining in the battery.

130


Ventilation Under normal conditions, gel and AGM batteries produce little or no dangerous oxyhydrogen. The little gas that escapes is negligible. However, just like with all other batteries, heat is generated during charging. To ensure the longest possible lifespan, it is important for this heat to be dissipated as quickly as possible. The following formula can be used to calculate the ventilation required for Mastervolt chargers. Q = 0.05 x I x f1 x f2 x n Q = required ventilation in m³/h I = maximum charge current of the battery charger f1 = 0.5 reduction for gel batteries f2 = 0.5 reduction for closed batteries n = number of cells used (a 12 Volt battery has six cells of 2 Volt each) Returning to the previous example of a 12 V/400 Ah battery set and an 80 amps charger, the minimum ventilation necessary will be: Q = 0.05 x 80 x 0.5 x 0.5 x 6 = 6 m³/h This air current is so small that natural ventilation will suffice. If the batteries are installed in a closed casing, two openings will be needed: One on the top and one underneath. The dimensions of the ventilation opening can be calculated using the following formula: A = 28 x Q A = opening in cm² Q = ventilation in m³ In our case, this amounts to 28 x 6 = 168 cm² (around 10 x 17 cm) for each opening. Lithium Ion batteries do not produce any oxyhydrogen and are therefore safer to use. When batteries are charged quickly there is some degree of gas formation, in which case the above formula can be used to divert the heat. Contact your installer for larger systems with multiple battery chargers.

131


Transporting gel, AGM and Lithium Ion batteries These types of batteries are completely closed and can be easily shipped as sea freight or air cargo. For sea and rail transportation, batteries are considered as harmless goods. The IATA/DGR (International Air Transport Association’s Dangerous Goods Register) also classifies batteries as non-hazardous goods for air transport so they can be sent to any destination in the world quickly and relatively cheaply. Peukert’s Law On the surface it seems easy to calculate how much longer a battery will continue to supply sufficient power. One of the most common methods is to divide battery capacity by discharge current. In practice, however, such calculations often turn out to be wrong. Most battery manufacturers specify battery capacity assuming a discharge time of 20 hours. A 100 Ah battery, for instance, is supposed to deliver 5 amps per hour for 20 hours, during which time voltage should not drop below 10.5 Volt (1.75 Volt/cell). Unfortunately, when discharged at a current level of 100 amps, a 100 Ah battery will only deliver 45 Ah, meaning that it can only be used for less than 30 minutes. This phenomenon is described in a formula – Peukert’s Law devised more than a century ago by the battery pioneers Peukert (1897) and Schroder (1894). Peukert’s Law describes the effect of different discharge values on the capacity of a battery, i.e. that battery capacity is reduced at higher discharge rates. All Mastervolt battery monitors take this equation into account so you will always know the correct status of your batteries.

132


133


Preventing electrolysis onboard boats Preventing galvanic corrosion is a vital consideration when installing an onboard electric system. Galvanic corrosion is the corroding of metal under the influence of an electric current. Every type of metal has a difference in potential with respect to other metals. If components made of two different metals are dipped into a liquid conductor (electrolyte) and short-circuited, a (low) current will flow between them. This will result in corrosion of the metal with the lowest potential, eventually dissolving it completely. There are three situations that can cause two different kinds of metal to be submerged in electrolyte on a vessel. And it is important to remember that while saltwater is an excellent conductor, brackish water and freshwater can also conduct electricity. Although the first situation is not directly related to the onboard power circuit as such, it is a major cause of corrosion, especially pitting. A propeller made of, for example, manganese bronze is connected to the hull via the propeller shaft, the engine and the negative pole of the battery. On a steel boat, this will result in a difference in potential between the hull and the propeller. The bottom of the boat is normally protected by paint and, therefore, insulated in theory. However, any scratch in the paint will result in two different metals being dipped in electrolyte and short-circuited, and an electrical current will immediately start flowing. To solve this problem, you will need to fit a sacrificial anode made of a metal with a lower potential than the hull, such as zinc or aluminium. The difference in potential between the anode and the propeller ensures that the anode is corroded, not the hull.

134


The second situation does concern the onboard power system.

Using an isolation transformer

The negative pole of the battery is usually connected to the hull,

The risk of corrosion may mean you do not wish to fit your

via the engine for instance. If the boat is used as a conductor,

protective earth onto the hull of your boat. However, to

perhaps because the negative pole of the lighting system is not

ensure your power system is safe you will need to install an

wired directly to the battery but connected through the hull, a

isolation transformer. With an isolation transformer, the earth

small difference in potential can arise between these two

wire remains within the shore power cable for safety reasons

connections. This can also cause corrosion and the risk is

but is not connected to the boat. The live and the neutral of

especially high with aluminium boats if the hull is used as a

the shore power connection will instead be connected to the

conductor. In this case, all equipment, including engines,

primary (shore) side of the transformer, which will ‘convert’

generators, alternators and navigation equipment, needs to

the voltage to the same or, if necessary, a different value.

be unearthed and the negative pole of the battery has to be

A new live and neutral, galvanically separated from the

connected with the hull at a single central point.

shore, will then appear on the secondary (boat) side of the transformer. The neutral will be connected to the onboard

The third relevant situation involves the shore power earth

protective earth system, which will now have nothing to do,

connection. In shore power installations, the neutral and

electrically, with the protective earth of the shore power

protective earth are connected to each other at the power

connection. This way the connection between two different

station and connected to groundwater via a thick steel rod.

metals (or two different types of the same metal as in

This means that all protective earth connections in a harbour

the steel boat/steel sheet pile wall example) is removed,

are linked to each other.

eliminating the risk of electrolytic corrosion.

Other factors

The neutral connection of the other power suppliers

Steel sheet pile walls and quays are also connected to the

onboard, such as the generator and the inverter, also needs

protective earth via groundwater. When an aluminium boat

to be linked to the onboard protective earth system. An earth

is moored next to one made of steel, for instance, the two

leakage switch is prescribed by directive ISO 13297 for

different metals (steel and aluminium) are dipped in

recreational craft up to 25 metres. The various options for

electrolyte (water) and a small difference in potential arises

earth leakage switches and isolation monitoring are subject to

between them. If both hulls are connected to the protective

this directive. Consult an expert for more details.

earth, a short-circuit will arise and lead to corrosion. The same can happen if a steel boat is moored next to a steel sheet pile wall. Although they are both made of the same metal, there will be a different potential in either structure. And since they are connected via the protective earth, corrosion will again result. The protective earth plays a very important role in securing your electric system, and cannot be omitted. In fact, current legislation (ISO 13297) legally requires a boat to be equipped with a sound earthing system.

135


Technical terms - glossary Absorption phase The second stage in a modern 3-step

Alternating current (AC) charging process.

AC is the electricity that comes out of a socket in your home.

Batteries are charged from around 80% to 100% during

Other terms used for AC include mains power, generator

this stage. Voltage is somewhat lower than the gas voltage

power, inverter power or shore power. AC changes polarity

of the battery, which is 2.38 Volt per cell (or 14.25 Volt for

with a given frequency: In Europe, for instance, the polarity

a 12 Volt and 28.5 Volt for a 24 Volt battery). The absorption

of the electrical current is reversed 50 times per second.

phase follows the bulk phase and is, in turn, followed by the float phase.

Amps (A) The unit that measures the current of electrons running

ABYC standards

through a circuit. The current is calculated by dividing voltage

The American Boat & Yacht Council is a non-profit

by the resistance of the consumer. A resistance of 6 Ohm and

organisation that represents American builders. It sets

voltage of 12 Volt gives a current of 2 amps.

standards and gives recommendations for nautical equipment (including electrical equipment) on pleasure vessels with

Amp-hour (Ah)

the goal of enhancing safety. The ABYC therefore issues

The unit that denotes the electric capacity of a battery,

certification for products.

calculated by multiplying current in amps by the duration of the discharge in hours. For example: If a battery delivers a

AGM battery

current of 5 amps in 20 hours with the voltage constantly

Battery in which the electrolyte (a mix of water and

above 10.5 Volt, this amounts to 20 x 5 =100 Ah.

sulphuric acid) is largely absorbed in glass fibre matting. As these batteries are entirely maintenance-free and do not

Battery

normally produce gas, they can be fitted anywhere in the

Converts chemical energy into electrical power and vice

boat and ventilation is usually unnecessary. Thanks to their

versa. The nominal voltage of a battery is 2 Volt, and higher

construction, AGM batteries can be swiftly discharged while

voltages are achieved by connecting several batteries in

providing a very powerful current. This makes them highly

series. For instance, six batteries can be combined to provide

suitable for systems that require high levels of current, such

a nominal voltage of 12 Volt. The capacity of a battery usually

as bowthrusters, winches and engine starting.

depends on the amount of lead and battery acid it contains.

Alarm contact

Battery acid

A contact in a charger or inverter that shuts down when an

An electrolyte that consists of water and sulphuric acid.

external or internal malfunction occurs.

The specific gravity of battery acid in a charged battery varies between 1.24 and 1.30.

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Battery charger Used to charge batteries. Its capacity should be around 15 to 25% of the battery capacity with a wet battery, 30% with an AGM battery, up to 50% with a gel battery and 100% with a Lithium Ion battery. Battery monitor (or battery consumption meter) Indicates battery status. Mastervolt offers two different models: The conventional BTM-III provides information about charge and discharge current, battery voltage, number of amp-hours consumed and time remaining before recharging becomes necessary. The modern MasterShunt gives extensive information on current, voltage, historical data and information on usage. It is easy to connect to the MasterBus network and with its integrated system clock combined with command-based events you can program the system entirely to your wishes. Bulk phase The first stage in a modern 3-step

charging system. The

output current of the battery charger is 100% during this stage, while voltage depends on the power remaining in the battery. The bulk phase is followed by the absorption phase. BV approval Bureau Veritas is a French classification society for shipping, passenger vessels and some large yachts. The requirements in terms of safety and functionality are stringent and approval is required by many insurance companies. Most Mastervolt equipment exceeds BV’s rigorous standards. Cable losses A loss of voltage resulting from the resistance of the cable during the conduction of electric current.

CE mark Marking placed on a product by manufacturers or importers to declare that it meets EU safety, health and environmental requirements. These requirements are derived from European product directives, which have been incorporated into the national legislation of most EU member states. The CE mark therefore shows compliance with a law and is not informal advice. It should be visible on the outside of equipment and suppliers have to make available a declaration stating which requirements of the CE marking the equipment meets. All Mastervolt equipment exceeds these rigorous standards.

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Charge voltage

Current

Voltage used to charge batteries. On average, it amounts to

The flow of electrons through a circuit, which can be compared

14.25 Volt or 28.5 Volt during the absorption phase and 13.25

to the flow of water. Electric current is measured in amps.

Volt and 26.5 Volt during the float phase at 25 째C. Cycle Combi

The discharging of a battery from 100% to 0% and recharging

A device that combines a battery charger, an inverter and a

back from 0% to 100% in one cycle. Twice discharging to 50%

transfer system in one.

and fully recharging is also one cycle, as is four times discharging to 75% and fully recharging again. This is all theory, however:

Cos phi or power factor

In practice a battery is never discharged more than 50%.

Specifies the degree to which current is out of phase with voltage: The lower this value, the larger the discrepancy. In

Digital Switching

a heating element, for instance, the current is in phase with

Digital Switching is a Mastervolt innovation that radically

the voltage, so the cos phi is 1. In a motor, however, there is

simplifies installation, configuration, control and monitoring

a divergence, and cos phi tends to be 0.8 or sometimes 0.6.

of onboard electrical systems. It also offers you a range of

The lower the cos phi, the more current is required to supply

luxurious and comfortable options, including remote control

a given amount of power.

by mobile telephone. Digital switching is fully compatible with a MasterBus network (see MasterBus).

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Dipswitch

Electrolyte

A tiny switch usually found on a printed circuit board and

The liquid in batteries, composed of a mixture of sulphuric

used to set the various functions of Mastervolt equipment.

acid and water. Its specific gravity is 1.280 in a charged battery and 1.100 in a discharged one.

Direct current (DC) Current that only flows in one direction, such as that in a

E-marking

battery, solar panel, alternator or battery charger.

A standard that indicates whether the relevant equipment can be used on vehicles such as ambulances and fire engines. In

DNV approval

order to qualify for an E-marking, equipment has to

Det Norske Veritas is a Norwegian classification

satisfy strict requirements in terms of safety, EMC and

society for professional shipping and offshore

suitability. Most Mastervolt battery chargers and inverters

activities. The requirements in term of safety and functionality

comply with these requirements and all have an E-marking.

are very strict, and approval is required by many insurance companies. Most Mastervolt equipment easily satisfies DNV’s

EMC

stringent standards.

Short for Electro-Magnetic Compatibility, EMC indicates how much, if any, electromagnetic interference a device

Earth

may produce and whether it is sensitive to electromagnetic

The electric no-load potential, also called reference potential.

interference from the outside. A good example is that of a

The negative pole of a battery is often connected to the steel

battery charger and a microwave oven. The microwave is

chassis of a vehicle or boat, which then serves as the earth. In

not allowed to produce more interference than determined by

US English the term grounding is used.

the EMC standard, and the battery charger may not be affected by the interference generated by the microwave.

Earth leakage switch

Naturally, the opposite also holds true. Requirements in terms

Monitors the onboard supply for electrical leakage, switching

of EMC are established within the CE framework. Mastervolt

it off when leakage exceeds 30 milli-amps. An earth leakage

equipment more than meets these strict requirements.

switch protects you against an electric shock in the event of contact with a live component.

E-Propulsion Electrical propulsion is growing in popularity and is

Efficiency

compulsory in an increasing number of sailing and nature

The efficiency of a power source is expressed in percentage

areas. A hybrid version is also available, allowing you to

terms (%). A device with an efficiency of 90%, for instance,

choose whether to sail using a diesel engine or electric motor.

has 100% power at the beginning and 90% at the end. The 10% that is lost is primarily transformed into heat. The higher the efficiency of an inverter, the longer the batteries will last.

139


Float phase The final step in a modern 3-step

Gel battery charging process. Alt-

Batteries where the electrolyte (mix of water and sulphuric

hough the batteries are full during this phase they receive a

acid) is absorbed in a gel. As they are entirely maintenance

maintenance charge, while the onboard DC circuit is

free and rarely produce gas, gel batteries can be fitted

supplied with power. Charge voltage is 2.25 Volt per cell or

anywhere onboard a boat. Extra gas extraction is usually

13.25 Volt for 12 Volt batteries and 26.5 Volt for 24 Volt ones

unnecessary. Gel batteries are highly suitable for lighting

at an ambient temperature of 25 °C.

and as onboard service batteries, and can be charged very quickly thanks to their special construction. With normal use

Forced inverter

the lifespan of a 12 Volt gel battery is between six and seven

A function on the Mass Systemswitch. At the push of a

years. For the 2 Volt traction gel version, 10 to 15 years is

button, a part of the onboard consumers are powered from

not uncommon. A gel battery is very suitable for (deep)

the batteries via the inverter, while the battery charger stays

cycle usage.

connected to shore power. The power intake of the battery charger can be regulated via the system panel, up to the

GL approval

point where the maximum for the shore power fuse has been

Germanischer Lloyd is a German classification

reached. The advantage of this system is that heavy-duty

society for professional marine vessels.

consumers such as hair dryers are powered via the inverter

The requirements in terms of safety and

and cannot therefore overload the shore power fuse. When

functionality are very strict and this approval

such consumers are connected to the inverter, consumption

is often necessary for insurance purposes.

from the batteries is usually higher than the battery charger can supply. This is rarely a problem as major consumers are

Hertz (Hz)

usually used for a short time and the consumption measured in

Unit that measures frequency, i.e.the number of times per

Ah tends to be low. After the consumer has been switched off

second that an alternating current (AC) changes direction.

the battery charger will recharge the battery automatically.

In Europe this is 50 Hz, and in the USA 60 Hz.

Frequency

High-frequency (HF) switch technology

The number of times per second that alternating current

This technology allows incoming alternating current to be

changes direction, expressed in Hertz (Hz).

rectified into direct current over a diode bridge, making large transformers obsolete. The resulting DC voltage is chopped

Galvanic isolation

into parts with a high frequency by means of an electronic

A situation where two circuits are electrically connected

switch that is turned on and off quickly. This creates a

without their grounding or earth coming in contact. Galvanic

simulated alternating current with a high frequency, 35 kHz

isolation is best achieved by means of a transformer.

(35,000 Hertz) for instance. This AC can be converted to a higher or lower voltage via a very small transformer. The

140

Gas voltage

higher the frequency, the smaller the transformer can be.

The voltage level at which a battery starts producing gas. At

Mastervolt uses HF switch technology in all its equipment,

at an ambient temperature of 25 ÂşC, the gas voltage is 2.38

offering major benefits in terms of compactness, weight and

Volt per cell or 14.25 Volt for a 12 Volt battery and 28.5 Volt

efficiency. Another advantage is that you say goodbye to the

for a 24 Volt one.

irritating hum of a transformer.


IEC approval The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and develops general standards for the safety of electrical components and equipment. Although it proposes standards, the IEC is not responsible for their enforcement, which is usually carried out by independent test laboratories. Inductive loads These loads are created by, for example, the motors in air conditioning systems and diving compressors. They cause the current to flow out of phase with the voltage, a phenomenon also known as phase shift. The degree is indicated by a value, cos phi, which ranges from 0 to 1 and is inversely proportionate to the size of the lag. In a heating element (which is resistive load), current flows in step with voltage and cos phi is 1. In a motor, however, there will be a lag, as indicated by the typical value of 0.8 - or sometimes 0.6 - for cos phi. The lower the cos phi, the greater the lag, and the more current is necessary to supply a given level of power. Inverter Converts 12, 24 or 48 Volt battery power to alternating current at 230 V/50 Hz (or 120 V/60 Hz). This allows appliances such as computers, microwave ovens and TVs to be powered without the need for a shore power connection or generator. Isolation transformer Converts shore power voltage to a higher, lower or equal value to ensure that there is galvanic isolation between the shore power connection and the onboard mains. This prevents corrosion from occurring. Kilowatt (kW) Unit for electrical power equivalent to 1000 Watt. Ten 100-Watt light bulbs consume one kilowatt.

141


142


Kilowatt-hour (kWh)

NiCad batteries

One kW of electricity used in the space of one hour. This is

Containing nickel, cadmium and lead, this type of battery is

the most common measurement of power consumption, also

unsuitable for use on boats due to the high charge voltage

used by energy companies.

required. NiCad batteries will soon be banned because of their cadmium content. N.B. All batteries are considered to

LED (light emitting diode)

be chemical waste.

Electronic light with very low power consumption. LEDs are generally available in many different colours and Mastervolt

No-load consumption

uses them as signal lights on battery chargers and inverters.

Power consumed by an inverter when it is not powering any

The latest generation of LEDs can be used as lights as well

equipment. This is just a few Watts with modern Mastervolt

and are very low in use of energy.

inverters and Combis. The lower the no-load consumption, the less power is used by the inverter.

Lithium Ion battery Lithium Ion batteries have a high energy density and are

Ohm

perfect for cyclic applications. Compared to traditional

Unit for electrical resistance, indicated by the symbol Ω.

lead acid batteries, Lithium Ion batteries offer savings of up to 70% in volume and weight, while the number of charging

Ohm’s law

cycles is three times as large. Another major benefit of the

Gives the relationship between voltage (U), current (I) and

Mastervolt Lithium Ion battery is that it is equipped with an

resistance (R). In formula terms this is expressed as U= I

integrated Cell Management System, which automatically

x R. If two of the three values are known, the third can be

compensates for any imbalance between the cells to

calculated.

guarantee a longer battery lifespan. Oxyhydrogen Lloyd’s approval

Highly explosive gas mixture of hydrogen and oxygen formed

Lloyd’s Register of Shipping is a British

during the charging of wet batteries with an unsuitable

classification society for yachts, professional

charger. Extra ventilation or gas extraction prevents

shipping, drilling platforms, etc. Numerous

concentrations from becoming too high.

insurance companies require large vessels to be approved by Lloyd’s. This means that the vessel and the

Overload

onboard equipment have to satisfy stringent requirements.

A concept related to the safety of an inverter, generator or shore power connection. A fuse, for instance, ensures against

MasterBus

overload. All Mastervolt inverters have electronic protection

MasterBus is Mastervolt’s advanced standard for data

against overload.

communication and integration of components within your electric system. Advantages include complete system integration, easy operation and monitoring, and simple installation with fewer cables. A MasterBus network can be easily extended at a later date.

143


Parallel connection In a parallel connection the current can flow through multiple circuits. By parallel connecting batteries (positive to positive, negative to negative), the capacity of the battery set is increased, while voltage stays the same. For example, while two 12 V/50Ah batteries connected in parallel have a voltage of 12 Volt, the capacity is 50 + 50 = 100 Ah. Peak power The maximum current that can be supplied by an inverter for short periods of time. This is often necessary, as electric motors can consume up to six times their nominal power when starting up. Mastervolt inverters deliver a high peak current, often reaching two to three times their nominal capacity. Peukert The name of a German scientist who in 1897 observed that a battery supplies progressively less power as the discharge current increases. Peukert created a formula that gives the number of amps a battery can supply at a given discharge current. Mastervolt battery monitors all take Peukert’s law into account, ensuring that you always have a correct overview of your battery’s status. Power Sharing This concept is related to the performance of the battery charger part of a Combi when connected to the onshore grid or a generator. It involves the automatic power intake regulation of the battery charger when the shore power is very low. As soon as the shore power fuse is in danger of being overloaded, the battery charger automatically reduces its current consumption.

144


Power Support

Self-discharging

A feature found in, for example, the Mass Combi. Power

The decrease in the capacity of a battery that occurs when

Support ensures that the power supply to onboard

no load is connected. A wet battery loses 15% per month, an

consumers starts coming from the batteries if the

AGM battery 3%, a gel battery 2% and a Lithium Ion

shore power is in danger of becoming overloaded. It is

battery less than 3% per month. The higher the ambient

activated after the battery charger intake has been reduced

temperature, the more self-discharging will occur. Current

to zero via the power sharing system in the Combi.

leakage due to intense pollution or humidity between the poles can also cause a higher level of self-discharging, so you

Recombination technology

should always keep the top of your batteries clean and dry.

Used in AGM and gel batteries to make sure that the gas

Self-discharging is automatically compensated by the float

(oxygen and hydrogen) generated by charging is recombined

phase of the battery charger.

into water. This means that the batteries can be entirely maintenance free and sealed.

Semi-traction battery A semi-traction battery has fewer but thicker plates in each

RMS voltmeter

cell, compared to other lead acid technologies. These

Device used to measure the voltage of old-fashioned

batteries supply a relatively lower starter current, but can be

trapezoidal inverters (RMS stands for Root Mean Square),

discharged more often and to a greater extent (200 to 500

for which a regular digital meter will indicate the wrong value.

full cycles). This kind of battery is highly appropriate for the

The output voltage of sine wave inverters can be measured

combined function of starter/service battery.

with a standard digital meter. Series connection RRR approval

A series connection (the positive pole of each battery is

The Russian River Register sets standards for products and

connected to the negative pole of the next) increases the

manufacturers in terms of quality, safety and environmental

voltage of the total battery set. For example, when two

friendliness. Only products certified by the RRR are allowed

12 Volt batteries with a capacity of 50 Ah each are connected

onboard vessels sailing on the country’s inland and coastal

in series, the total voltage of the set will be 12 + 12 = 24

waters.

Volt, while total capacity remains 50 Ah (current x hour).

RS approval

Sine wave

The Russian Maritime Register of Shipping sets standards

The alternation of voltage can be graphically indicated by a

that products and manufacturers must meet in order to be

sine wave. This consists of a line that follows a wave pattern

allowed onboard vessels flying the Russian flag within Russian

around a horizontal axis, which represents the passage of

territorial waters (seas and inland waters). The institute is

time and also the points at which voltage is zero. Once the

also responsible for related inspections.

line has traced one entire wave above the time axis and one entire wave below, a whole sine wave has been outlined. A single wave above or under the line is half a sine wave.

145


Square millimetre (mm²) Unit in which cable diameters are measured. With a direct current system of 12 or 24 Volt, three amps should correspond to one mm² of cable thickness. For 230 Volt systems allow 6 amps for each mm². Soft start Device used to reduce the inrush current of transformers. Stand-by mode In this mode the inverter emits a small pulse instead of the usual 230 Volt output. It detects when an appliance is plugged in and the inverter automatically switches on, supplying 230 Volt until the output current falls below a pre-set value. When there is little or no output current, this means that no load is connected and the inverter switches back to stand-by. This system saves a great deal of energy. Starter battery Used to start engines. Although these batteries can deliver a high current, they should not be excessively or too frequently discharged and are therefore not appropriate for lighting purposes. AGM batteries are ideal to serve as starter batteries. Switch technology See High Frequency switch technology. Temperature correction If the battery temperature is lower than 25 ºC, the charge voltage should be adjusted upwards. When higher, the charge voltage needs to be reduced. This temperature correction is -30 mV per ºC for a 12 Volt battery and -60 mV per ºC for a 24 Volt one. While this may seem insignificant, it is essential to ensure a long battery life.

146


147


148


Temperature sensor

Volt (V)

A temperature sensor should be attached to the battery so

Unit in which electric potential (voltage) is measured.

that the charger can optimise charge voltage with respect to the battery temperature. The charge voltage depends on the

Volt-amps (VA)

battery temperature.

Unit for measuring electrical power.

Traction batteries

Voltage ripple

Used for propulsion, powering marine equipment and

A voltage ripple is a small alternating current on top of a di-

inverters, etc. They can be discharged often and completely,

rect current, which results in a DC voltage that is not entirely

and in a gel version are highly suitable for onboard use. Wet

smooth but ripples slightly. While a battery delivers pure

cell batteries are only appropriate for forklifts, etc.

direct current without any ripple, this is not always the case with a battery charger. In an old-fashioned battery charger,

Transfer system

50% of the voltage may contain ripples, which translates into

A (frequently automatic) system used to switch between

6 Volt in a 12 Volt system. A large voltage ripple shortens the

multiple power sources, such as shore power, generator and

lifespan of a battery, which needs to be charged with direct

inverter.

(not alternating) current. In addition, a voltage ripple can interfere with onboard audio, navigation and communications

3-Step

charging

A modern charging technology that has been extended

systems. Mastervolt battery chargers supply a flat DC voltage with no more than 0.5% of ripple voltage.

with an extra step in Mastervolt’s latest equipment, the Plus phase.

Watt (W)

The three steps are:

Unit that measures the rate of energy conversion, calculated

• Bulk, where the charger supplies maximum power.

by multiplying Volts by amps.

• Absorption, during which the charger delivers maximum charge voltage and the battery is charged from around

Watt-hour (Wh)

80% to 100%.

Measure of electrical power in time. One watt-hour of

• Float, used for battery maintenance and delivering power

electricity is equal to one Watt of power consumed over one

to connected equipment.

hour. A 10-Watt light bulb uses 10 Watt-hours of electricity in

The ‘plus’ phase is an automatic one-hour bulk phase once

one hour (see also kWh).

every 12 days when the battery is not being used. UL approval An American certification provided by Underwriters Laboratories that is similar to the European CE-mark and mainly focused on safety issues.

149


Mastervolt sales and service points worldwide: • Mastervolt Benelux

www.mastervolt.nl

• Mastervolt UK

www.mastervolt.co.uk

• Mastervolt Germany

www.mastervolt.de

• Mastervolt France

www.mastervolt.fr

• Mastervolt USA

www.mastervolt.us

• Mastervolt Australia

www.mastervolt.com

• Mastervolt China

www.mastervolt.com

• Mastervolt Finland & Baltic

www.mastervolt.fi

• Mastervolt Italia

www.mastervolt.it

• Mastervolt Sweden & Denmark www.mastervolt.se • Aquamarine Russia

www.mvr.ru

• Arti Marin Turkey

www.artimarin.com

• C-Dynamics South Africa

www.c-dynamics.co.za

• Doma Austria

www.doma.at

• Electra Service Brazil

www.electraservice.com.br

• Electrical Marine Thailand

www.electrical-marine.com

• Enertec New Zealand

www.enertecmarinesystems.com

• Exalto Emirates Arabic Emirates www.exalto-emirates.com • Geutebruck Adria Slovenia

www.mastervolt.si

• Marine Parts Switzerland

www.marineparts.ch

• Nautiradar Portugal

www.nautiradar.pt

• Navex Elektro Belgium

www.navexelektro.be

• Sakiotis Greece

www.sakiotis.gr

• Staubo Elektro Maskin Norway www.staubo.no • Strand Marine Malta

www.strandmarinemalta.com

• Video Acustic Spain

www.videoacustic.com

This is just a minor selection of our extended service network. See the www.mastervolt.com/dealer-locator for a complete overview of our distribution partners.

150


Colophon This Powerbook is a result of a close co-operation between Mastervolt and the following companies:

Concept and design: Youniq Creative, Holten Layout: Mastervolt and Youniq Creative Text: Youniq Creative, Holten Photography: Joost Berndes (cover), Webfotografie.nl, Geek Zwetsloot, Rene Wopereis Translation English: Writewell, Amsterdam Printing: Drukkerij Roelofs, Enschede Special thanks to the following companies: • Alerion Express USA • Alliaura Marine France • Alubat France • Amels BV the Netherlands • Bertram USA • Consonant Yachts the Netherlands • Conyplex the Netherlands • Damen Shipyards the Netherlands • Delphia Yachts Poland • De Scheepsbouwers the Netherlands • Fairline United Kingdom • Gulledge USA • Hallberg Rassy Sweden (Peter Szamer) • Her Shine Marine Taiwan • Jeanneau France • Linssen Yachts the Netherlands • Malö Yachts Sweden • Moonen Shipyards the Netherlands • Morris Yachts USA • Nord West Yachts Germany (Peter Szamer) • Norseman South Africa • Northshore United Kingdom • Oyster United Kingdom • Pacific Shipyards BV the Netherlands • Pearson Composites USA • Saffier Yachts the Netherlands • Van Dam Nordia the Netherlands • X-yachts Denmark • many other shipyards for lending us graphic material The material contained in this book is set out in good faith for general guidance and no liability can be accepted for loss or expense incurred as a result of relying in particular circumstances in statements made in this Powerbook. © Mastervolt International

151


Visit our new website:

www.mastervolt.com

Mastervolt BV Snijdersbergweg 93 1105 AN AMSTERDAM ZO The Netherlands T +31(0)20 34 22 100 F +31(0)20 69 71 006 E info@mastervolt.com I www.mastervolt.com

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