24V Autopilot on a 12v boat

[PhilipA]

I know alot of people try this with heaters which I guess need more power...has anybody a method for running a 24v control unit and hydraulic pump from 12v on a 36 turbo

Or better still tell me the truth am I wasting my time?

PS. Also considered a 12v autopilot in need of a new home!!!



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[Talbot]

This is sometimes done for bow thrusters, so the technology is available - suggest you talk to a local company that specialises in the fit of Bow thrusters and ask them

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[andyball]

Not that hard really, do a search for topics on heaters as you mentioned.

Think I'd have two extra 12V batteries making a 24V supply & charge this via a converter/charger capable of supplying the average current demanded by the autopilot. Current peaks would exceed converter output but batteries will cope with this as long as average demand is met.

Depending on current drawn, batteries might be fairly small sealed ones, tho std sized wet lead acid probably cheaper if there's space.

Converter maybe surprisingly expensive, one (inefficient, but poss. cheaper) route if you've already got an inverter is a 24V charger run from that.



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[steverow]

I think I'd be inclined to run it as a separate entity, with two smallish 12V batts connected in series with a separate 24V switchmode charger. The current draw from the electronics is negligible, its the hydraulic pump motor that takes the current. Of course the current consumption is halved with 24volts. There is no difficulty really associated with this...just the expense of a couple of batteries and a charger which you will have to do the calculations on to see if you're still on the winning side financially. (Take care with the grounding though..)
Another option:
On my boat which has 12volt, 24 volt and mains there is a switchmode device which takes an input of 12volts from the instrumentation battery bank and outputs 24 volts to charge the 24volt engine starter battery banks for emergency use. Not ever seen another one but maybe still available. Try perhaps Sterling Power..they seem to be the specialists in this sort of thing.

Hope this helps

Steve.




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[steverow]

Re: 24V Autopilot on a 12v boat-More

For DC to DC converters ie 12V to 24V try CPC www.cpc.co.uk

either PW00689 72W non isolated £63.59 or PW00690 144W ni £98.79 or even
PW00428 440W 12-24 at £180 all plus vat of course.
Should be something there that suits.

Steve.

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[PhilipA]

Thanks guys, you've all been a great help!!

Though the seller of the 24v kit has changed his mind and the price has jumped, so it's no longer a bargain!

Pity

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[PhilipA]

Thanks guys, you've all been a great help!!

Though the seller of the 24v kit has changed his mind and the price has jumped, so it's no longer a bargain!

Pity

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