INSTALLATION
14
May 2017 / M-GV4 Piccolo for marine applications / EN
3
ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION (12 VOLT)
3.1
ENGINE CONTROL SYSTEM
Engine control (standard 12V) is incorporated in the PMG
Power Module for Genverter. Use the PMG or a separate DDC
box to operate the generator.
3.2
STARTER BATTERY
For starting, the GV4 Piccolo requires a 12V starter battery with
at least 55 Ah.
The GV4 Piccolo can be connected with the main engine battery
or have its own battery.
We strongly recommend the use of a separate battery for the
GV4 Piccolo and to keep the wiring system for the boat engine
and the domestic DC supply system completely separate and
individually connected to separate batteries.
However, the negative of all the batteries on the boat should be
interconnected to avoid difference in the voltage level of the
earth on different places causing trouble to electronic devices
which might be in the system.
The above recommendation is not valid for boats having the
starter battery of the boats engine or other auxiliary equipment
positive grounded. When this is the case an expert should be
consulted.
A battery switch may be used to interrupt the positive
connection.
The starter battery is charged by the alternator on the engine.
An additional battery charger will help to keep the battery in
good condition when the generating set is not used.
A battery charger is not included in the standard supply. A high
efficiency battery charging unit can be ordered from Whisper
Power which is able to charge both the boat’s main battery and
the starter battery. Also a small charger can be used to charge
the starter battery only.
3.3
OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS AND WARNINGS
The battery should be secured for rough sea conditions and the
terminals should be insulated. For extra safety the battery can
be enclosed in a wooden, plastic, fiberglas etc. (non metal) box.
Even when the earth return system is applied a negative
battery cable should be used and the boat should not to be
used as a conductor.
Battery cables are not included (recommended: 1.5 m , 10mm2;
if longer cables are required a larger cross sectional area should
be considered to compensate for voltage reduction). Connect
the cables as described in section 4.1.
When two batteries are used in series to provide a
24 Volt supply system, never take off 12 Volt
(starting) power from one of these batteries. This
will result in severe damage to both batteries
within a short time.
Disconnect the battery leads if electrical welding is to be carried
out, otherwise damage will be caused to the diodes of the
alternator.
As explosive hydrogen gases may be discharged
during charging, the battery should be located in a
well-ventilated room. Ensure that the supplied
battery cable connectors are properly fitted and
never remove during or shortly after charging as
sparking can occur, which may ignite the
hydrogen gasses.
3.4
AC POWER SYSTEM (230 VOLT)
The electric power supplied by the GV4 Piccolo is
of a high voltage and dangerous to people. Before
working (installation) on the system read the
sections on safety in the users manual.
Generators used on boats that are operated in a
hazardous environment have often to fulfil special
regulations and additional measures have to be
taken accordingly.
Be sure that all electrical installations (including all safety
systems) comply with all required regulations of the local
authorities. All electrical safety/shutdown and circuit breaking
systems have to be installed on board as the generating set
itself cannot be equipped with such equipment for every
possible variation.
The boats power supply system should be suitable and safe for
the AC voltage which is applied and the power that will be
generated. Special attention has to be paid on dividing the
system in branches which are fused individually.
It is absolutely essential that each and every circuit in the
electrical system is properly installed by a qualified electrician.
3.5
CABLE PROTECTION (FUSES)
It is the installer's responsibility to protect the live wires
between the genverter and the PMG/DC PowerCube. Check the
electrical information on the identification plate in order to
calculate the right fuse size.
Please note that the above is in addition to any fuses required
between the PMG/DC PowerCube and the AC installation or
batteries, as applicable.
