The Victron Energy Isolation Transformer 4500W is a galvanic isolation transformer built for shore power connections on boats and other marine or mobile installations. It breaks the direct electrical link between shore earth and a vessel's hull, stopping the galvanic corrosion that stray currents cause, while delivering a safe, isolated AC supply at either 115V or 230V output.

Key features

• Power rating, 4500W continuous, for substantial onboard AC loads.
• Dual voltage, 115V or 230V output, matching North American and European shore power standards.
• Galvanic isolation, separates shore earth from the vessel's hull, preventing electrolytic corrosion.
• Shock protection, removes the risk of shore earth faults reaching the vessel's metalwork.
• Toroidal core, lower electromagnetic interference and efficient operation compared with laminated core designs.
• Weight, 22.22 kg, reflecting the copper and iron core needed for a 4500W toroidal build.

How it works

When a boat plugs into shore power, the earth conductor forms a metallic path straight back to the marina's earthing system. Where different metals sit in the water, that path drives galvanic currents that eat away at anodes, propellers, stern gear and hull fittings. This transformer transfers power inductively instead, with no direct electrical connection between the shore-side and vessel-side windings.

Because it accepts either 115V or 230V on the primary side, it suits vessels that move between marinas built to different voltage standards, or boats wired to one standard visiting a shore supply on the other. The 4500W rating covers typical combined loads such as air conditioning, battery chargers and galley appliances running together.

Applications

• Shore power connections on sailing yachts, motor cruisers and narrowboats.
• Corrosion protection in marina berths with mixed metal hull fittings.
• Voltage conversion between 115V and 230V shore supplies for vessels crossing regions.
• Isolation of onboard AC systems in commercial and charter vessel installations.

What's in the box

• 1 x Victron Energy Isolation Transformer 4500W 115/230V

Installation notes

Fitting should be done by a qualified marine electrician familiar with AC shore power systems. The unit needs a structural mounting surface able to support its 22.22 kg weight, with space around it for ventilation. Never connect the secondary earth to the shore earth, as doing so defeats the isolation. Check input voltage compatibility before connecting to any shore supply.