Agm Batteries Solar

Solar panels for boats

Silent solar

Solar panels are used on ships sailing while noise generators are not required. Solar power generates electricity silently, without disturbing the serenity quiet power of the sail, the only sounds are the wind in the sails and the bow cutting through the blue water.

Tough, waterproof and corrosion-resistant solar panels

Solar energy used on sailing boats should not be different from the use Land of solar panels in their function, but all electrical components must be watertight. Bundles of solar panels and fasteners must be corrosion resistant to avoid attacks by the spray of the sea very corrosive. If mounted on the deck, they must be severe enough to withstand walking on it.

Components of a solar sea

There are solar controllers designed specifically for marine use, for example those used on marine solar buoys, he need not do be no different for the types usually used only if it is installed under the cover with the battery, but it must be waterproof whether it will be mounted outside with solar panels.

There are no batteries specifically designed for marine use but the deep cycle batteries are recommended for power everyday storage and use. The term "deep cycle" means that they can be emptied regularly at low load levels, typically about 30% state of charge (SOG), without any adverse effect cell battery. Deep cycle batteries are recommended when the power is stored and used on a daily basis, because they last longer that starting batteries normal vehicle, but it is best to use batteries such as sealed absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries or GEL to prevent leakage of acid in the weather.

Wiring must be marine grade cable with UV resistant insulation. It must be capable of handling the load current without significant voltage loss. The cables used for use in low voltage is thicker than the high voltage wiring, because it must bear a greater flow of current to a power supply equivalent. The wiring should be rated to carry the intensity measured solar and 50% to avoid power loss. For example, a 140-watt solar panel produces about 8 amps and requires a cable rated for 12 amps.

Where to install solar panels on a boat

As a boat is always in motion there is no point in fishing solar cells to the sun as you would for a table land of the sun. They are always mounted horizontally so that whatever the position the boat it will get some sun. Unfortunately, this also means less power is solar generated, so that it can produce about half maximum power, in other words, our 140-watt solar panel will provide about 70 watts per hour of sunlight.

Blocking diode

A blocking diode is required if solar panels are covered when not in use for a long period of time, as this will prevent reverse current drain the battery if it remains connected to solar panels. An alternative is to select a solar controller that can disconnect the solar panel when it is not charging the battery.

If these facts are taken into account then 12 volt solar panels are a good option for power-boat sailing. Happy surfing!

About the Author

John is a technical consultant for Ecopia the Australian portable solar power retailer. He has a background is in engineering and an interest in solar power and wind energy.

DIY solar combined kits, Harbor Freight, Sunforce, Barry’s Solar Power Center