Marine Electrical Systems

Posted by Alan Sorum Sep 26, 2006

Modern boating depends on the use of both Alternating Current (AC) and Direct Current (DC) to drive items like VHF radios, radars, GPS chart plotters, charging systems, heaters, lights and so much more. Electricity can help or harm you as a boater and the topic covers a great deal of territory. I have already presented articles on Corrosion and Electrolysis and Electric Shock Drowning. Today I posted a story about how to Mitigate Electric Shock Drowning. These articles relate to problems that can occur because of shore power and boat electrical system failures.

I plan to develop a number of electrically related articles for Boating and Sailing at Suite101.com. A few of the topics discussed will include:

• Grounds and Grounding Systems
• Vessel Bonding Systems
• Bottom Paint and Stray Current
• Shore Power Systems, Plugs and Cords
• Power Circuit Protection
• Ground Fault Current Interrupters (GFCI)
• Direct Current (DC) Electrical Systems
• Vessel Wiring
• Storage and Starter Batteries
• Electrical Safety

There is a wealth of material to cover in this subject area. If there is a particular topic that you would like to see addressed first, please email me at: BoatingSailing@Suite101.com.