Seakeeper 18 Installation Manual (90672-2); S/N 18-234-2475 to Current

1.0 Introduction

This manual applies to Seakeeper 18 models with serial no. 18-234-1475 to current.

Reference Documents

• 90667 – Seakeeper 18 Hardware Scope of Supply

1.1 Precautions

• The Seakeeper 18 must only be lifted from the supplied lifting eyes (See Section 1.4), shown in Figure 1.
• The Seakeeper flywheel is supported by precision bearings.  DO NOT drop or impart mechanical shock to the Seakeeper assembly while lifting or unpacking, as damage to bearings could result.
• While handling / installing the Seakeeper assembly, protect exposed hydraulic brake cylinder rods (See Figure 1) from scratches or damage as this could lead to premature seal failure and oil leaks.
• While handling / installing the Seakeeper assembly, do not allow electrical fittings that exit the bottom of the Seakeeper enclosure to contact any surface or object as this could damage the fittings and potentially affect the vacuum integrity of the enclosure.
• Exercise care to protect the painted surfaces as damage to the finish could lead to early appearance degradation of the installed Seakeeper.

1.1.1 Safety

There is a large torque about the gimbal axis when the Seakeeper is precessing. Seakeeper cover panels are provided to prevent personnel or equipment from contacting the Seakeeper while it is in operation. These covers should not be stepped on, or have anything placed on top. The covers should always be in place during operation.

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If it is ever necessary to access the Seakeeper while the flywheel is spinning, the Seakeeper must be locked at the display to stop the Seakeeper from precessing.

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Stand clear of the Seakeeper and all moving parts when operating.

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The unit may be started remotely. Assume it could move without warning.

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The Seakeeper and related structure should be treated with the same respect one gives a high-speed rotating propeller or engine shaft.

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The following must be true before accessing the Seakeeper:
* Input power must be disconnected for at least 10 minutes
* The Seakeeper must be locked
* The flywheel must be at zero speed

1.2 Transport and Unpacking

Reference Documents

• 90324 – Seakeeper 18 Unpacking Instructions
• 90541 – Seakeeper 18 Packing List
• 90667 – Seakeeper 18 Hardware Scope of Supply
  

1.2.1 Transport

1. Use a Seakeeper provided shipping crate for transport. Overall dimensions of a fully packed crate are 52 L x 53 W x 47 H in. (1.32 L x 1.35 W x 1.19 H m) with a weight of 2,650 lbs (1,202 kg).
2. Do not stack Seakeeper shipping crates.
3. Both Air and Ground transport are acceptable.
4. Seakeeper shipping crates must be transported in environmental conditions between -4°F and 140°F (-20°C and 60°C).

1.2.2 Unpacking

1. Reference Seakeeper Drawing 90667 – Seakeeper 18 Hardware Scope of Supply for items that ship with the Seakeeper.
2. Remove electrical components, display, cables, and misc. items and set aside.
3. Remove packing materials that secure Seakeeper assembly inside the crate.
4. Remove top and angled face cover panels to access lifting eyes.
5. Attach spreader bar (Seakeeper P/N 80061) to the two lifting eyes located on the top of the Seakeeper enclosure.  Stay clear of any other parts on the Seakeeper. The Seakeeper 18 weighs 2,460 lbs (1,116 kg). See Figure 1 below.
6. Only when ready to install in vessel, remove lag bolts from the Seakeeper foundation and prepare to lift the Seakeeper from the crate.

2.1 Introduction

This document is intended to give details and guidance to a boat builder or equipment installer to install the Seakeeper 18.  The Seakeeper 18 can produce vertical loads up to 5,965 lbs (26.5 kN), longitudinal loads up to 3,509 lbs (15.61 kN), and transverse loads of 500 lbs (2.22 kN) at each of the four mounts. Careful consideration should be given to foundation design to ensure it is capable of transferring these loads into the hull. These loads do NOT include vessel motion accelerations, such as vertical slam loads which can be significant for high speed vessels and vary based upon the longitudinal location. The responsible party for designing the supporting structure (boat builder, installer, or hired sub-contractor) must accommodate the above forces plus a reasonable factor of safety. Seakeeper recommends a minimum safety factor of 3.0 (yielding a Safety Margin of 2.0).

There are two methods of installing the Seakeeper 18:

1. Bolt-In Installation: the Seakeeper 18 is bolted directly to a metal structure or embedded tapping plate.
2. Bond-In Installation: Seakeeper 18 is bolted to Seakeeper supplied saddles which are bonded to the vessels FRP Structure using a high strength structural adhesive.

It is assumed that the installer is familiar with installing mechanical fasteners in marine structures or using high strength adhesives on aluminum and fiberglass (FRP), and has performed structural analysis to assure the structure to which the Seakeeper mounts can properly transfer the loads the Seakeeper creates into the hull structure.  If the installer has any doubt about the ability of the structure to transfer the loads to the hull, then a licensed naval architect or marine engineer should be contacted to perform a structural analysis.

The installer should review the following list of reference drawings to ensure the mechanical installation procedure is fully understood.

Reference Drawings

• 90544  – Seakeeper 18 Bolt-In Installation Guide
• 90545  – Seakeeper 18 Bond-In Installation Guide
• 90282  – Seakeeper 16/12HD/18 Installation Template Kit
• 90679  – Seakeeper 18 Cable Block Diagram
• 90542  – Seakeeper 18 Bolt-In Clearances
• 90547 – Seakeeper 18 Bond-In Saddle Kit
• 90548 – Seakeeper 18 Bolt-In Kit
• 90648 – Seakeeper 18 Thru-Bolt Kit

2.2 Selection of Seakeeper Installation Location

The Seakeeper should be installed aft of amidships to minimize high acceleration loadings due to hull/wave impacts during operation at high speed or in large waves. If the only possible Seakeeper location is forward of amidships then the installer should have Seakeeper review the installation location prior to finalizing the design.

Seakeeper can only assess installation location regarding its impact on Seakeeper operation and serviceability. Seakeeper cannot determine how the installation location will affect the vessel static or directional stability other than cyclic roll reduction. The Installer is responsible for considering the Seakeeper’s effect on the Center of Gravity location, trim, overall stability, and performance of the vessel.

The Installer is solely responsible for ensuring that the Seakeeper is properly located and installed on the vessel foundation with an adequate margin of safety for the specified design loads and vessel operating characteristics.

Selection of mounting location of the Seakeeper should consider the following desirable features:

1. Adequate service access for scheduled maintenances and overhaul of the Seakeeper 18 is required. See Figure 3 and Drawing No. 90544 – Seakeeper 18 Bolt-In Installation Details for service clearance requirements.
2. The Seakeeper should be installed in a dry space to minimize effects of corrosion.

VIEWS SHOWING RECOMMENDED SERVICE CLEARANCES AROUND THE SEAKEEPER FOR USE OF HAND TOOLS, EASE OF MAINTENANCE, INSTALLATION AND PROPER OPERATION.

Refer to Figure 4 for required clearances to transverse beams.  If a transverse beam is located under the forward brace, it must be 1 in. (25 mm) from the edge of the Seakeeper to provide the necessary clearance for the swing of the motor power cable during the Seakeeper’s precession.  Clearances aft of the Seakeeper are shown to provide access for regular scheduled maintenance.

2.2.1 Noise/Soundproofing

Seakeeper 18 noise has been measured under steady state conditions (no wave load) in Seakeeper‘s lab and in our test boat. The steady state noise is typically <68 dBC at 1 meter. As the frequencies emitting the highest sound pressures are low (like other marine machinery), it is recommended that the Seakeeper be installed in an enclosed space such as a machinery space, lazarette, or bilge. If additional noise reduction is needed sound proofing insulation can be used in the space around the Seakeeper unit.

2.3 Selection of Installation Method

The Seakeeper 18 can be affixed to the hull structure using two methods:

1. Bolt-in installation or
2. Bond-in (Saddle) installation. See figures below.

OPTION 1 – DIRECT FASTENING OF SEAKEEPER FOUNDATION TO SHIP’S STRUCTURE

Option 1 would be applied when a metal structure or laminated tapping plates are available for attachment. The Seakeeper 18 frame would fasten directly to hull structure or plates using isolation gaskets for metal-to-metal contacts and (16) M14X2.0 fasteners. Depending on the structure to which the Seakeeper is fastened, blind threaded holes or thru-bolting can be utilized.

OPTION 2 – SADDLE INSTALLATION (4 PLACES)

Option 2 would most commonly be used on a FRP hull structure. For this option, four 12.9 in. (327 mm) long x 4.9 in. (125 mm) wide x 6.7 in. (170 mm) height saddles (P/N 90547) are bonded to properly spaced and prepared structural members that are an integral part of the hull structure. Seakeeper recommends using a structural adhesive with a lap shear strength of 2,000 psi (13.8 MPa) or greater. Careful consideration should be exercised by the installer while selecting the appropriate adhesive.  Compatibility with the Seakeeper’s cast aluminum A356-T6 saddles, hull structure and pot life are three important factors to consider. Proper surface preparation in accordance with adhesive manufacturer’s recommendations prior to installation is very important. Recommended adhesives can be found in Seakeeper Technical Bulletin 90382 – Structural Adhesive Recommendations.

2.4 Bolt-In Installation

2.4.1 Preparation of Hull Structure

Refer to Seakeeper Drawing No. 90544, Seakeeper 16/18 Installation Details – Bolt in Method. Important dimensional and load information is given in this drawing that will impact the design details of the structure that will receive the Seakeeper. It is assumed that a proper structural analysis has been performed for the hull structure to which the Seakeeper will be fastened to ensure proper strength margins for the loads the Seakeeper will create during operation. Seakeeper recommends a safety factor of 3.0.

The hull structure supporting the Seakeeper should be arranged so the Seakeeper is parallel to the waterline in the transverse direction and within 2 degrees longitudinally.

In addition, the four areas on top of the structure on which the Seakeeper 18 frame and isolation gaskets will rest need to be co-planar within .06 in. (1.5 mm) to minimize potential distortion of Seakeeper support frame when installed.  The isolation gaskets are only used when the Seakeeper 18 is mounted to a dissimilar metal structure.

Seakeeper provides an installation template kit, P/N 90282, which contains plates that match the mating surfaces of the four feet located on the Seakeeper’s frame. These plates have 4 holes located at the same centers as the mounting holes on the Seakeeper. The fixture locates the hole patterns at the proper spacing both in the fore-aft direction and the port-starboard direction, see Figures 7. Once assembled, the fixture can be used to check clearances and alignment of the hull structure.

Note:   Do NOT use the installation fixture to establish the Seakeeper envelope dimensions.  Refer to Drawing No. 90544 for envelope dimensions. A 3-D model of the Seakeeper is available on the Seakeeper Technical Library (www.seakeeper.com/technical-library/)  to aid in designing the Seakeeper foundation and the space around the Seakeeper.

NOTE: MAKE SURE NO OBSTRUCTIONS FROM THE HULL STRUCTURE CAN BE SEEN WITHIN THE INSIDE OF THE INSTALLATION TEMPLATE KIT (INSIDE THE MARKED RED LINES) AS SEEN IN FIGURE 7. REFERENCE SEAKEEPER DRAWING NO. 90544.

CAUTION: Tight clearances from cable guide bands to hull structure.
See above figure for dimensions and reference
Seakeeper Drawing No. 90554 for complete Seakeeper 18 envelope

2.4.2 Transfer of Holes to Boat Structure

1. Lower assembled fixture onto hull structure (See Figure 8).
2. The four areas where the feet of the Seakeeper will rest should be coplanar to within 0.06 in. (1.5 mm). See figure to the right.
3. Align fixture in desired location and transfer holes from fixture plate to the hull structure.  Note that holes in fixture plate are ø0.55 in. (14 mm).

2.4.3 Blind Hole Installation

1. Remove Template Fixture and drill four (4) x 9/16 in. ø (14.29 mm ø) holes perpendicular to the vessel structure to a minimum depth of 0. 84 in. (21 mm). Take special care to drill perpendicular to mounting surface.
2. Tap drilled holes for M14-2.0 threaded inserts.
3. Install four (4) M14-2.0 X 1.5D (21 mm length) locking threaded inserts into holes in hull structure at drilled and tapped locations using threaded insert manufacturer provided installation tool.

4. Remove threaded insert prong / tang after threaded inserts are installed

2.4.4 Through-Hole Installation

1. Remove Template Fixture and drill sixteen (16) (15mm ø) holes perpendicular to the vessel structure. Take special care to drill perpendicular to mounting surface. A drill guide is recommended.

2.4.5 Installation of Seakeeper

1. Lower Seakeeper into position onto the hull foundation beams and align over drilled holes. Apply a small bead of marine sealant (e.g., SILI-THANE 803 or equivalent) between mating surfaces of Seakeeper frame and hull structure to prevent moisture wicking into bolt holes.
   
   1. For dissimilar metal foundations locate and position 4 isolation gaskets onto foundation beams and apply a small bead of marine sealant (e.g., SILI-THANE 803 or equivalent) between both mating surfaces of each isolation gasket where it contacts the beam and the Seakeeper.

2. Install mounting bolts:
   
   1. For Blind-Hole installations (Seakeeper Kit #90548), install the Seakeeper supplied Grade 10.9, M14-2.0 x 100 mm fasteners or alternative Grade 10.9, M14-2.0 bolts to maintain a minimum thread engagement of .82 in. (21 mm). Apply a moderate coat of nickel-based anti-seize (e.g., SAF-T-EZE nickel grade anti-seize, SBT-4N or equivalent) to the threads of each bolt and include a small bead of marine grade sealant (e.g., SILI-THANE 803 or equivalent) under each bolt head and washer before installation.
   2. For Through-Bolt installations (Seakeeper Kit #90648), install the Seakeeper supplied Grade 10.9, M14-2.0 x 120 mm fasteners or alternative Grade 10.9, M14-2.0 bolts to maintain a minimum of 2 threads protruding past nut. Apply a moderate coat of nickel-based anti-seize (e.g., SAF-T-EZE nickel grade anti-seize, SBT-4N or equivalent) to the threads of each bolt and include a small bead of marine grade sealant (e.g., SILI-THANE 803 or equivalent) under each bolt head and washer before installation.

3. Torque all fasteners to 100 ft-lbs (136 Nm).
   
   1. New bolts, matching the Seakeeper specification, must be used for each installation and reinstallation that meet the requirements listed above.
4. Proceed to electrical and cooling portion of the installation.

2.5 Saddle Installation

Seakeeper provided mounting hardware is intended to apply to typical installation arrangements. However, each installation, especially custom aftermarket foundations, should be thoroughly reviewed to ensure the provided hardware meets the required thread engagement for the Seakeeper unit being installed. The mounting bolt thread engagement requirements are outlined in the Installation Manuals and Installation Details Drawings for each Seakeeper model. This also applies to Seakeeper model adapter kits and OEM built frames where the bolt hole depth should be checked to ensure the bolts will not bottom, preventing the bolts from achieving the intended preload.

When the Seakeeper provided hardware is not appropriate, the bolt specification (diameter and thread pitch) and grade should be matched in the required length and used with the Seakeeper provided washers. Mounting bolts should always be torqued to the Seakeeper specification. All Seakeeper provided bolts are metric course thread. Hardware specifications are also listed in the Installation Manuals and Installation Details Drawings.

See Sheet 6 of Seakeeper drawing No. 90545 for loads information and recommended adhesive properties.

2.5.1 Preparation of Hull Structure

Refer to Seakeeper Drawing No. 90545, Seakeeper 18 Installation Details – Bond-In Method. Important dimensional and load information is given in this drawing that will impact the design details of the structure that will receive the Seakeeper as well as selection of the adhesive to bond the Seakeeper into the hull.

The foundation “saddles” of the Seakeeper are designed to be bonded directly to the composite hull structure of the vessel to effectively distribute Seakeeper loads.  A complete bond is required between the inside surface of the saddles and the hull structure. An estimate of adhesive volume required should be calculated for each installation based on gaps between saddles and structural members. There is some adhesive waste as a part of the process, so a good rule of thumb is to purchase up to 50% more adhesive than estimated volume to ensure a complete bond. Depending on conditions and adhesive used, two workers may be required to apply the adhesive at the same time to finish the installation before the adhesive starts to cure. To aid in determining the quantity of adhesive required, the interior surface area (bonding surfaces) of each saddle is 164 in.² (1,058 cm²) for a total bonded surface area for all four saddles of 656 in.² (4,232 cm²). 

The hull structure supporting the Seakeeper should be arranged so the Seakeeper is parallel to the waterline in the transverse direction and within 2 degrees longitudinally.  The four areas on top of the beams that the saddles will bond to need to be co-planar within .13 in. (3 mm) for consistent adhesive bond gap.  In addition, the four areas on top of the saddles on which the feet of the Seakeeper foundation will rest need to be co-planar within .06 in. (1.5 mm) to minimize potential distortion of Seakeeper support frame when installed.

Note that any paint or gelcoat present in bond area should be removed so that adhesive will bond directly to laminate fibers and resin.  

Seakeeper provides an installation fixture template, P/N 90282 that locates the saddles at the proper spacing both in the fore-aft direction and the port-starboard direction. See Figures 10, 11, & 12. Once assembled with the provided saddle fittings, the fixture can be used to check clearances and alignment of the hull structure. The fixture will allow the builder / installer to lay-up and adjust the foundation dimensions to create a low-clearance fit between the Seakeeper foundation saddles and the hull structure. Shear strength of the adhesive will be maximized if the cured thickness between the vessel structure and Seakeeper saddles is at the thinner end of the adhesive manufacturer’s recommended range. Therefore, the fixture should be used to confirm that the overall dimensions of the foundations are square and level and that the adhesive gap is within Seakeeper’s recommended range of .04 to .13 in. (1 to 3 mm).Note:   Do NOT use the installation fixture to establish Seakeeper envelope dimensions.  Refer to Drawing No. 90545 for envelope dimensions.   A 3-D model of the Seakeeper is available on the Seakeeper Technical Library (www.seakeeper.com/technical-library/) to aid in designing the Seakeeper foundation and the space around the Seakeeper.

NOTE: MAKE SURE NO OBSTRUCTIONS FROM THE HULL STRUCTURE CAN BE SEEN WITHIN THE INSIDE OF THE INSTALLATION TEMPLATE KIT (INSIDE THE MARKED RED LINES). REFERENCE SEAKEEPER DRAWING NO. 90545.

2.5.2 Fiberglass Hull Preparation

1. Position installation fixture (Figure 12) on hull girders noting recommended clearances for maintenance from Figure 3.  Check that the screws fastening the saddles to the installation fixture are tight (Figure 14).

2. Mask hull area (Figure 13) around foundation saddles for easy clean-up and to create outline of surface area to receive adhesive as (Figure 12).  Ensure that the bond gap is within Seakeeper’s recommended thickness, or 3 mm if using Plexus MA590.

3. Raise fixture clear of foundation.  Check all four mounting areas are co-planar to within 0.13 in. (3 mm) to each other, as well as parallel to the water line plane, as shown in Figure 14.

4. Thoroughly clean with alcohol or acetone all areas of girders to be bonded to remove any contaminates. Use new paper towels for cleaning, not shop rags.
5. Remove any paint or gelcoat from bond surfaces so that adhesive will bond directly to laminate fibers and resin as shown in Figure 13.
6. Thoroughly sand hull girder bond surfaces with 80 grit sandpaper.  (IMPORTANT – BOND STRENGTH MAY BE REDUCED IF THIS STEP IS SKIPPED.)
7. Wipe surfaces clean from dust with alcohol or acetone using new paper towels, not shop rags.
8. Re-position installation fixture on girders and double-check that the adhesive gap is within the adhesive manufacturer’s maximum recommended thickness. Seakeeper recommends a maximum gap of 3 mm if using Plexus MA590.

Note if bonding saddles to a metal structure, contact Seakeeper for hull preparation instructions.

2.5.3 Seakeeper Saddle Preparation

1. Ensure that screws fastening saddles to the installation fixture are tight (Figure 11).
2. Check that each saddle contains 2 plastic screws which will ensure an adhesive gap of .080 in. (2 mm) on top surface of hull as shown in Figure 15. Do not remove these screws.
3. Thoroughly sand all saddle inside surfaces with 80 grit sandpaper in cross-hatch pattern. (IMPORTANT – BOND STRENGTH MAY BE REDUCED IF THIS STEP IS SKIPPED.)
4. Thoroughly clean with alcohol or acetone the inside surfaces of Seakeeper foundation saddles to remove any contaminates as shown in Figure 11. Use new paper towels for cleaning, not shop rags.

5. If using Plexus MA590 adhesive, apply one coat of Plexus PC-120 surface conditioner to inside surfaces of Seakeeper foundation saddles in accordance with manufacturer instructions.  These instructions are located in the following section.  If using an alternate adhesive, check with manufacturer if any surface conditioner/etch is required for the aluminum saddles.

2.5.4 Bonding Saddles to Hull

Note: This is a sample if using Plexus, if using another adhesive follow manufacturer’s

recommendations. If using Plexus MA590 adhesive, the Seakeeper saddles should be installed when PC-120 is confirmed dry.

1. Assemble Plexus cartridge into either the manual or pneumatic gun as shown.  Remove cap on cartridge and attach mixing tip.  For pneumatic gun, start with low air pressure and increase until desired flow rate is achieved.

2. Cut tip of mixing wand as shown in photo.

3. Prepare a second mixing wand as shown in photo below by attaching the simple flexible nozzle to the end of the mixing tip. Set aside for now as this will be used to inject adhesive into the sides of each saddle after the fixture / saddles are in position.

4. Install provided rubber plugs in six holes of each saddle. The plugs will limit the adhesive being forced out of the injection holes in step 6 below.
   
   
   
5. Apply large bead of Plexus adhesive to the hull structure as shown in the figure to the right. Apply approximately ²/_3rds to 1 cartridge at each of the four locations.  Work deliberate and fast as it takes some time to apply the adhesive to the structure. MA590 has a 90-minute working time at room temperature (73°F / 23°C).  This working time can reduce to 40-50 minutes at elevated temperatures. Two workers should apply the adhesive at the same time to finish the installation before the adhesive starts to cure.
6. Lower fixture and saddles over the hull structure and apply light downward pressure to each of the four saddles until the two nylon screws rest on the hull structure (SEE FIG. 7). The adhesive will be forced towards the forward and aft ends of each saddle and partially down the sides of the foundation beams.
7. Insert full adhesive cartridge along with mixing wand / nozzle assembled in Step 3 above into gun.
8. Begin to inject adhesive into the three holes provided on each side of each of the four saddles. Follow the numbered sequence shown until the adhesive pushes out the edges of the saddle perimeter. The intent is to pump in the adhesive working from the top down and from the middle to the ends to fill the gaps and displace any air.

A complete bond is required – excess adhesive will be needed to make sure all bond gaps are filled.

9. Repeat above step for remaining 7 sides of the saddles.
10. When gaps have been completely filled, clean off excess adhesive, remove plugs, and remove masking tape.
11. Allow adhesive to cure per manufacturer’s recommendations.  Follow adhesive guidelines for curing time versus temperature prior to removing the fixture.
12. Bonding of Seakeeper saddles onto the hull is now complete.  Remove installation fixture.

2.5.5 Installation of Seakeeper

1. The four areas where the feet of the Seakeeper will rest should be coplanar to within .06 in. (1.5 mm). See Figure 14.
2. Rig the Seakeeper for lifting and lower it into position onto top surface of four saddles.
3. Apply a small bead (approximately 4 mm wide) of sealant or caulk to the mating surfaces between the saddles and the Seakeeper foundation.  Adjust position of the Seakeeper until alignment is achieved for the 16 fasteners that will attach Seakeeper foundation frame to saddles.

4. Install the Seakeeper supplied Grade 10.9, M14-2.0 x 90 mm fasteners or alternative Grade 10.9, M14-2.0 bolts to maintain a minimum thread engagement of .83 in (21 mm). Apply a moderate coat of nickel-based anti-seize (e.g., SAF-T-EZE nickel grade anti-seize, SBT-4N or equivalent) to the threads of each bolt and include a small bead of marine grade sealant (e.g., SILI-THANE 803 or equivalent) under each bolt head and washer before installation.
5. Torque all fasteners to 100 ft-lbs (136 N-m).
   
   1. New bolts, matching the Seakeeper specification, must be used for each installation and reinstallation that meet the requirements listed above.
6. Proceed to electrical and cooling portion of the installation.

3.1 Electrical Introduction

This section for electrical installation explains how to mount the electrical equipment and how to connect the electrical cables. Additional references are provided in associated sections.

Reference Documents and Drawings

• 90667 – Seakeeper 18 Hardware Scope of Supply
• 90679 – Seakeeper 18 Cable Block Diagram
• 90558 – ConnectBox Helm Mounting Kit
• MFD Compatibility Bulletins
  
  • TB-90478 – Garmin and Seakeeper Compatibility
  • TB-90479 – Raymarine and Seakeeper Compatibility
  • TB-90480 – NAVICO and Seakeeper Compatibility
  • TB-90598 – Furuno and Seakeeper Compatibility
• Optional 5″ Touch Display References
  
  • 90467 – Seakeeper 5″ Display Kit
  • 90438 – 5″ Operator Display Envelope and Mounting Details

Figure 16 – Electrical equipment for Seakeeper 18

3.2 Electrical Equipment Power Connections

230 VAC Power Source Requirements

1. 230 VAC (nominal), 1 Phase, 50/60 Hz, 30 A
2. For installations of more than one Seakeeper, a separate circuit breaker must be used for each Seakeeper Motor Drive Box.

Drive Box AC Power Input Connection Instructions

1. AC Power Input Cable: 3 x 10 AWG (3 x 6 mm² CSA), 10 ft9 (3 m) length, Seakeeper supplied pre-installed.
   
   1. Locate AC power input cable on the Drive Box at the outboard cable gland.

2. Connect 230 VAC wires in AC Power Input Cable to a 30 A, double-pole Circuit Breaker at an AC
power distribution panel according to Figure 18 above.

24 VDC Power Source Requirements

1. One 24 VDC, 10 A (Customer supplied) for Seakeeper Control Power, AND
2. One 24 VDC, 10 A (20 A max)(Customer supplied) for DC Seawater Pump.
3. A separate breaker should be used for each Seakeeper.

DC Power Connection Instructions

Reversing polarity on the DC power input to the Seakeeper can result in damaging the electronics in the control system.

1. 24 VDC, 10 A, 2 x 12 AWG (3 x 4.0 mm² CSA) customer supplied.
   
   1. Install Seakeeper provided DC Power Input Cable, P/N 20248 (as shown in Drawing No. 90679).
      
      1. Route 24 VDC Power Cable to DC Power Distribution Panel.
      2. Terminate positive (B+, Red ) conductor to +24 VDC.
      3. Terminate negative (B-, Black) conductor directly to battery negative terminal.
   2. Before connecting cable to Seakeeper, check for proper voltage and polarity with a DC multimeter using Figure 19 below.
   3. Connect 24 VDC Input Cable to 24 VDC input receptacle on Seakeeper.

DC Seawater Pump 24 VDC Power Input Connection Instructions

Connecting the DC Seawater pump in any other manner than recommended by Seakeeper may cause internal failure.

1. Install Seawater Pump Input Cable (P/N 20454) to Seakeeper 18 “SW Pump DC In” (as shown in Drawing No. 90679) with overcurrent protection corresponding to seawater pump selected.
2. Connect the 14 AWG positive conductor (Red) through dedicated overcurrent protection device (customer supplied), maximum of 20 A, to dedicated battery isolation switch.
3. Connect the 14 AWG negative conductor (Black) directly to battery negative terminal or DC main negative bus bar.
4. Before connecting Seawater Pump Input Cable to Seakeeper, check for proper voltage and polarity with a DC multimeter using Figure 20 below.

5. Connect Seawater Pump Input Cable to Seawater Pump 24 VDC In connector on the Seakeeper, DEUTSCH DT04-2P connector.

DC Seawater Pump 24 VDC Power Output Connection Instructions

1. Connect Seawater Pump Output Cable (P/N 20455) to the Seakeeper 18 “SW Pump 24VDC Out” for DC power to the seawater pump.
   
   1. Seawater Pump Output Cable is a 2 x 14 AWG cable, 16 ft (5m) length with a size 16 female Deutsch plug.
2. Pumps rated at 24 VDC, 10 A maximum, customer-supplied, must be configured with a Deutsch DT series, 2-pin receptacle to mate with the connector shown in Figure 21.

3. Seawater Pump Output Cable must be routed and installed in the vessel from the Seakeeper 18 “SW Pump 24VDC Out” Deutsch connector (pins end) to the DC seawater pump cable Deutsch connector (socket end).
4. Connect Seawater Pump Output Cable plug end (socket end) to the customer-supplied receptacle end (pins end). The recommended wiring is shown in Figure 22.
5. Contact Seakeeper if desired to install customer-supplied relay on Seawater Pump Output Cable to power seawater pump.

3.3 Electrical Equipment Ground Connections

1. Connect the Seakeeper foundation to vessel ground as shown in Figure 23.
   
   1. Install Ground Cable (10 AWG or 22.0 mm², Customer supplied) from the M6 brass ground stud on the Seakeeper rear brace to a suitable vessel ground. Note: ONLY USE THIS LOCATION FOR GROUNDING THE SEAKEEPER TO THE VESSEL GROUND.
   2. Install Ground Cable (4 AWG or 22.0 mm², Customer supplied) from the M6 brass ground stud on the Seakeeper rear brace to a suitable vessel ground.
      
      • EN/IEC 90204-1 Clauses 6.3.3 and 8.2.3
      • ABYC E-11 July 2018 Clauses 11.5.2 and 11.16.1.
   3. Ground connection should be made with vessel bonding system, if available. However, the ground is not referring specifically to a bonding system but for outboard boats generally refers to the outboard engine negative terminal. Per ABYC E-11 (2018), Clause 11.5.2.7.4: If the negative side of the DC system is to be connected to the ground, the connection shall be made only from the engine negative terminal, or its bus, to the DC grounding bus. This connection shall be used only as a means of maintaining the negative side of the circuit at ground potential and is not to carry current under normal operating conditions.
   4. A proper ground connection is critically important for corrosion protection and helps to ensure the ignition protection of the unit by ensuring it does not carry any stray current.

NOTE: USE ONLY THIS LOCATION FOR GROUNDING THE SEAKEEPER TO THE VESSEL GROUND.

3.4 ConnectBox Display Connections

Seakeeper 18 Display Options

A display is required with the installation of a Seakeeper 18 to support the full functionality of the unit through the Seakeeper App in addition to the ConnectBox. The Seakeeper App provides an interface for controlling the Seakeeper or viewing the Settings, Service, Info, and Alarm pages. The Seakeeper ConnectBox can be helm-mounted to provide an additional interface for the control of the Seakeeper but does not replace the need for a Seakeeper compatible display.

The Seakeeper 18 has several options for establishing a Seakeeper display interface to support the Seakeeper App:

1. Preferably, connect the Seakeeper to a compatible Multifunction Display (MFD).
2. Install an optional Seakeeper 5″ Touch Display (P/N 90467).
3. A combination of a compatible MFD and an optional 5″ Touch Display is also available.

The following figure provides a schematic of the preferred display option. The subsequent sections outline the instructions and references for connecting the Seakeeper 18 in each of these display options.

Connecting to a Compatible MFD

1. The Seakeeper 18 can be connected to a variety of available MFD systems. Refer to the Technical Bulletins Section of the Seakeeper Technical Library for manufacturer specific MFD compatibility technical bulletins.
   
   • MFD specific Technical Bulletins will be updated regularly as new MFD systems become compatible. Currently GARMIN, RAYMARINE, NAVICO (Simrad, Lowrance, B&G), and FURUNO offer compatible MFD models.
   • Once a compatible MFD has been selected, refer to the appropriate manufacturer specific compatibility Technical Bulletin listed above for integration instructions.
2. Connect Seakeeper-supplied M12 D-Code, 82 ft (25 m), cable (P/N 30355) to MFD manufacturer-specific Ethernet adapter cable. Custom Ethernet cables for specific MFD manufacturers are available through Seakeeper and must be purchased with the Seakeeper 18 when connecting to an MFD.

Connecting to an Optional Seakeeper 5″ Touch Display

If not utilizing a compatible MFD display, a Seakeeper 5” Touch Display must be purchased from Seakeeper. The Seakeeper 5” Touch Display (P/N 90467) includes the components shown in the following figure and will be integrated with the ConnectBox.

1. Determine location of Seakeeper 5” Touch Display:
   
   1. The desired location of the 5” Touch Display must be determined with respect to the vessel’s arrangement.
   2. The 5” Touch Display should be located on or near the helm or another easily accessible location.
2. Route CAN communications cable:
   
   1. The CAN Cable, (labelled NMEA 2000 Cable in figure above), is a 32 ft (10 m) shielded cable that connects the ConnectBox Tee adapter to the 5” Touch Display.
      
      • NOTE: Cable lengths are also available in 25, 35, 50, and 65 meters
   2. The NMEA 2000 cable must be routed and installed in the vessel from the Seakeeper 18 wire harness CAN Tee to the Tee Adapter at the Seakeeper 5” Touch Display, included with P/N 90467.
3. Install Seakeeper 5″ Touch Display equipment:
   
   1. Console space required: Approx. 5.24 W x 3.70 H in. (133 x 94 mm)
   2. Mounting Instructions, Surface Mount: see Envelope and Mounting Details, in Drawing No. 90438 – 5” Display Envelope and Mounting Details.
4. CAN communications tee adapter and terminator mounting instructions:
   
   1. Console space required, Rear: Approx. 4 W x 3 H in. (102 x 76 mm)
   2. Mounting Instructions: Rear mount on vessel console panel, within 2 ft (0.6 m) of Display.
   3. Hardware required: One mounting screw for 0.197 in. (5 mm) diameter mounting hole on Tee Adapter.
5. Connect Seakeeper 5” Touch Display Equipment:
   
   1. The Seakeeper 5” Touch Display is connected in accordance with figure below.
6. The USB Extension Cable is 6.5 ft (2 m) long cable that enables software updating on a 5″ Touch Display where accessibility to rear panel is limited.
   

NMEA 2000 Network Connection

The Seakeeper 18 requires a connection to the vessel’s NMEA 2000 network backbone via a drop cable for access to the GPS signal. The Seakeeper 18 will monitor information on the NMEA network to support and optimize the performance of the Seakeeper 18. If no GPS signal is detected, a warning will appear on the Seakeeper display. The Seakeeper will not spool-down, but the operation of the unit will be limited until the GPS signal returns.

1. Install customer-supplied NMEA 2000 Tee Adapter (space required: approximately 4 W X 3 H in. (102 X 76 mm).
2. Connect NMEA Backbone to Tee Adapter.
   NOTE: NMEA drop cable can be no longer than 19.6 ft (6 m) in length.
3. Connect Seakeeper-supplied NMEA cable (P/N: 30332) to the customer-supplied NMEA 2000 Tee Adapter on vessel’s NMEA 2000 backbone.
   
   1. An active NMEA 2000 compatible GPS signal is required on the vessel’s NMEA 2000 backbone to operate the Seakeeper 18.
      
      • If no GPS signal is detected, a Speed Over Ground (SOG signal) warning will be present on the Seakeeper app. See TB-90640 for NMEA connectivity guidance.

ConnectBox Helm Mounting – Optional

1. Console space required: Approx. 3.41 L x 4.15 W in. (87 x 106 mm).
2. Mounting Instructions, Surface Mount: See Drawing No. 90558 – Seakeeper ConnectBox Helm Mounting Kit, for details. Seakeeper ConnectBox 3D Model available upon request.
3. Mount ConnectBox Replacement Blank insert into Seakeeper 18 top cover at the original location of the ConnectBox.

4.1 Cooling Introduction

The Seakeeper 18 is shipped with the cooling circuit filled and ready for use. Only a confirmation of glycol level is required.

Reference Drawings

• 90667 – Seakeeper 18 Hardware Scope of Supply
• 90679 – Seakeeper 18 Cable Block Diagram
• 90540 – Seakeeper 16/18 Cooling Water Schematic

4.2 Installation Considerations

• Installer is responsible for supplying a dedicated seawater pump and associated plumbing. Seawater connections on the Seakeeper heat exchanger mate with ¾ in. (19 mm) hose. Seakeeper DC Seawater Pump, 24 VDC (P/N 30322) is available as an option from Seakeeper.
• There is no need to disconnect hose from glycol pump except to replace the pump. In this case, provision will need to be made to catch draining glycol as plumbing is disconnected. Use caution to avoid breaking plastic hose connections on pump casing.
• An output is available from wire harness ‘Seawater Pump-Out’ to power and automatically control seawater pump. This pump must operate on 24 VDC single phase and consume less than 10 A. Pumps requiring other voltages or higher current can still be controlled by using this supply from motor drive to trigger an installer-supplied contactor, but a separate source of power must be provided.
• Maximum sea water pressure in heat exchanger is 30 psi (2.07 bar).
• Seawater flow requirement through heat exchanger is 4 GPM (15.1 LPM) minimum and 8 GPM (30.3 LPM) maximum under all operating conditions of the boat.  When sizing sea water pump, installer should factor in losses for raw water plumbing.  In addition to initial operation at dock, new installations should be checked to be within the flow requirements while vessel is at speed. Flows higher than 8 GPM (30.3 LPM) could affect heat exchanger life.

4.3 Connecting Seawater to Heat Exchanger

1. Connect seawater from installer supplied pump to ¾ in. (19 mm) hose barb on heat exchanger. Use the same practices as typical below waterline seawater plumbing (See figure below).  Required flow rate is 4 GPM (16 LPM) minimum and 8 GPM (30.3 LPM) maximum.
2. Connect seawater return to overboard hull fitting.  Use the same practices as typical below waterline seawater plumbing.
3. In addition to initial operation at dock, new Seakeeper installations should be checked with a flow meter for minimum 4 GPM (16 LPM) flow while vessel is at speed and when backing down. If no other method of confirming flow is available, discharge line may be temporarily diverted to a bucket. Flow is calculated from time to fill a known volume.  A self-priming sea water pump (customer/installer supplied) may be required due to installation location to maintain water flow in all underway conditions where cavitation near the intake may occur and potentially cause an air-lock condition restricting seawater flow to the heat exchanger.
   
   1. To prevent cavitation / aeration of the seawater intake a forward-facing scoop should be utilized. In addition, the seawater intake should be located in a location that will not aerate during normal underway operation.
4. Inspect raw water plumbing after sea trial for any signs of leakage.
5. Heat exchanger contains removable endcaps to provide access for cleaning the tube bundle.

Seakeeper Optional DC Seawater Pump (P/N 30322)

1. Seakeeper offers a self-priming DC Seawater pump as an optional addition, P/N 30322– DC Seawater Pump Assembly, shown in figure below.
2. The Seakeeper Seawater Pump is a 24 VDC pump.
3. The pump assembly is pre-wired for connection to Seakeeper 18 Seawater Pump Output Cable and includes a seawater strainer and various fittings. The pump specifications are as follows:

NOTE: Use only Jabsco-provided threaded fittings for DC Seawater Pump 30322.

4.4 Adding Coolant

1. Cooling system is filled to proper level when shipped, with a mixture of 50% ethylene glycol and 50% distilled water. Clear tube between thermostat housing and reservoir should be filled with green coolant mixture. If level has dropped, check for evidence of leaks at all connections before adding fluid as described below. If coolant is at the correct level, skip to sea water connection in Connecting Seawater to Heat Exchanger section.

2. Mix 50% ethylene glycol with 50% distilled water in a clean container.  Refer to Table 1 or glycol manufacturer’s literature for freezing points.

3. Remove pressure cap on top of reservoir. Pour mixture in until level reaches top of clear tube between thermostatic valve and reservoir as shown in Figure 3.  Filling reservoir above this level will not cause any damage but coolant may be expelled from pressure relief port below cap due to normal thermal expansion of coolant.
4. Connect 24 V to controller.
   
   1. At the MFD app or 5″ Touch Display check for any ALARMS
   2. Press the POWER ON/OFF button .
   3. The flywheel will start to spin, and the glycol pump will start.
   4. Recheck glycol level with fluid circulating in coolant circuit. Look down inside reservoir and check that coolant level is above upper port on reservoir as shown in Figure 29.  Replace cap.
   5. After several minutes of running, press POWER ON/OFF button to turn power off to the flywheel and glycol pump. The glycol pump will stop, and the flywheel will coast to a stop.
   6. Seawater cooling is not required when the Seakeeper is powered off and the flywheel is coasting to a stop.
5. The cooling system is self-purging.  If small amounts of air are in the system, they will most likely be dislodged during the first sea trial.  Recheck level after sea trial and add fluid if required.

5.1 Installation Requirements Introduction

The Installation Requirements section outlines the components and tools needed for the Seakeeper 18 Installation that are not included within the scope of supply.

5.2 Required Supplies for Seakeeper Installation

Required supplies needed for Seakeeper installation
(Not supplied with the Seakeeper)

6.1 Installation and Start Up Introduction

Reference Documents:

• 90437 – Seakeeper Commissioning Form
• SWI-105 – Commissioning Checklist
• Seakeeper 18 Operation Manual

The Installation and Start Up Checklists in this section provide an overview of the primary steps covered in the installation manual and should be referenced throughout the installation process. Upon completion of the
Seakeeper 18 installation, the installer should commission each Seakeeper unit with the Seakeeper Commissioning Form (90437). The Commissioning Checklist Work Instruction (SWI-105) provides a checklist of items to inspect and verify during the commissioning process and serves as a supplement to the Seakeeper Commissioning Form (90437).

All Seakeeper stabilizers should be commissioned to verify installation specifications and requirements have been implemented properly. The commissioning process should include completion of the Seakeeper
Commissioning Form (90437), all the items in the Installation Checklist, and verification of Seakeeper 18 operation without alarms or abnormal behavior.

Please Complete Checklist and E-mail to support@seakeeper.com

6.2 Installation Checklist

Mechanical Checklist (reference Installation Manual Section 2)

Electrical Checklist (reference Seakeeper Drawing 90679 & Installation Manual Section 3)

CHECK	ITEM	ACTION
	MOUNT COMPONENTS
	MFD Display or Seakeeper 5″ Touch Display	Connect Ethernet adapter M12 D-Code cable to appropriate MFD ethernet cable. For 5″ Touch Display, install 90600 kit.
	CONNECT CUSTOMER SUPPLIED CABLES
	Ground Cable	Install lugs on both ends of customer supplied 10 AWG ground cable
		Connect one end of ground cable to nearest vessel ground and other end to Seakeeper rear brace
	CONNECT SEAKEEPER SUPPLIED CABLES
	DC Control Power Cable	Connect DC power cable from Seakeeper to 24 VDC power at customer supplied connection box or directly to circuit breaker
		Plug connector of DC Input Power Cable into mating connector on Seakeeper wire harness
	AC Power Cable	Connect AC power cable from Drive Box to 230 VAC single phase at customer supplied connection box or directly to circuit breaker
	NMEA 2000 CAN Communications Cable	Connect NMEA 2000 Drop Cable to backbone
	DC Seawater Output Cable	Connect DC Seawater Pump Output Power Cable Male-Female connection to the DC “Seawater Pump-Out” from the Wire Harness
	DC Seawater Input Cable	Connect DC Seawater Pump Input Power Cable, Female Only connection to the DC “Seawater Pump-In” from the Wire Harness Stripped end to be connected to a 24VDC power source

Cooling Checklist (reference Installation Manual Section 4)

CHECK	ACTION
	Verify coolant level in heat exchanger coolant reservoir.
	Connect seawater hoses / open sea cocks to heat exchanger and test seawater pump.
	Verify 4 GPM (15 LPM) minimum and 8 GPM (30 LPM) maximum seawater flow through heat exchanger under all operating conditions of the boat.

Startup Checklist (reference Installation Manual Section 6 & Operation Manual)

CHECK	ACTION
	Remove lifting eye-bolts and install cover panels
	Turn on Seakeeper, 24 VDC circuit breaker
	Turn on Seawater pump, 24 VDC circuit breaker
	Turn on 230 VAC circuit breaker
	Verify display works and no ALARMS are present
	Follow instructions in Seakeeper 18 Operation Manual to turn on the Seakeeper
	Verify seawater pump turns on when the Seakeeper is turned ON
	Verify that no ALARMS are present
	Follow instruction in Seakeeper 18 Operation Manual to turn off the Seakeeper
	The Seakeeper is powered off by switching off the AC & DC power and seawater pump. The Seakeeper will automatically be in LOCK mode once the system is turned off
	Seakeeper 18 takes 4.5+ hours to coast down to 0 RPM from full speed

6.3 Start Up Checklist

Startup Checklist (reference Installation Manual Section 4 & Operation Manual Sec.  2)

CHECK	ACTION
	Remove lifting eye-bolts and install cover panels
	Turn on Seakeeper, 24 VDC circuit breaker
	Turn on Seawater pump, 24 VDC circuit breaker
	Turn on 230 VAC circuit breaker
	Verify MFD app / 5″ touch display works and no ALARMS are present
	Follow instructions in Operation Manual to turn on the Seakeeper
	Verify seawater pump turns on while the Seakeeper is turned ON (It will run only as needed)
	Verify that no ALARMS are present
	Follow instruction in Section 4.1 of Installation Manual to turn off the Seakeeper
	The Seakeeper is powered off by switching off the AC & DC power and seawater pump. The Seakeeper will automatically be in LOCK mode once the system is turned off
	Seakeeper 18 takes 4.5+ hours to coast down to 0 RPM from full speed

7.0 Revision History

5.3 Tools Required for Installation

List of common tools that may be required for installation