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Chargers
B2B loader from Sterling
Modern boats need a lot of power, and depending on the on-board electrical system, it may be necessary to install a battery-to-battery charger (B2B). For example, if a bow thruster battery needs to be charged in addition to the service battery - or if a lithium bank requires a particularly high charging voltage. In the latter case, the B2B charger is installed between the starter and lithium battery and processes the current produced by the alternator in such a way that the connected lithium battery is optimally charged. The increase in voltage at the input of the device (above 13.5 volts) gives the charger the signal to charge the connected second battery. Sterling has always been a pioneer in B2B chargers and has now presented its new series, whose models are available with charging capacities between 40 and 120 amps. The new chargers are smaller, lighter and quieter and have an extremely high efficiency of over 96 per cent. In addition, the lithium characteristic curve has been adapted and a reverse charging function developed, which makes it possible to use the B2B charger the other way round and charge the starter battery from the service battery. The 40-amp model costs 419 euros.
- Further information: www.sterling-power.com
Chargers from other providers
Sun cream for the boat
When the sun shines brightly from the sky, sailors protect themselves with UV protection and shirts. But gelcoat and paintwork are also affected by the sun. Shurhold has developed a sunscreen for boats that is rubbed onto the surface. One bottle (950 ml) is enough for a 10.5 metre boat.
- Further information: www.shurhold.com
Flow meter for retrofitting
The skipper often only sees exactly how much fuel the engine is consuming when refuelling. Airmar has developed a flow meter that can be easily inserted into the diesel line and sends the consumption data to the plotter via the NMEA 2000 data network. However, it is only suitable for larger engines with a consumption of at least 8 litres per hour.
- Further information: www.airmar.com
Sail bag from Marinepool
Marinepool's new Water Series II sailing bag is 100% waterproof thanks to its sealed seams, a Tizip zip from the drysuit and the coated polyamide cover. The material is very robust, yet lightweight: the 100-litre bag weighs just 1.3 kilograms. Another major advantage is that it can be folded or rolled up to a small size, so it takes up very little space on board once the transported clothes have been stowed away, which also makes it interesting for charterers. The bag is equipped with adjustable and padded shoulder straps, making it ideal for carrying as a rucksack. There are also carrying handles on the front and back. The Water Series II is also available in a 60-litre version. 60 litres: 190 euros, 100 litres: 220 euros.
- Further information: www.marinepool.de
