High-Performance Alternators

Balmar High-Output Alternators – Maximum Charging Power for Onboard Batteries on Boats & Yachts

A high-performance alternator is the most efficient and reliable way to charge batteries on board quickly and with virtually no maintenance. Especially on long voyages, bluewater cruising, during frequent anchoring, or with high energy demands from inverters, air conditioning, and water makers, a modern high-output alternator ensures a secure and independent power supply.

Since mid-2021, Philippi has been the official distributor for Balmar alternators and regulators for easy retrofitting and upgrading of Volvo and Yanmar alternators – an important topic especially for lithium battery systems to ensure charging under engine power.

Briefly explained: Balmar is a renowned alternator manufacturer from the USA, specializing in efficient battery charging using the onboard diesel engine. Balmar builds alternators specifically optimized for slow-running marine diesel engines, featuring high efficiency and low heat generation.

Why a High-Output Alternator?

Standard alternators often deliver only 30–40 A at idle – this is far from sufficient for modern onboard electrical systems with lithium batteries, inverters, and power-intensive consumers. The consequence: batteries cannot be charged fast enough during engine operation, engine running time increases, and battery life suffers from continuous partial charging.

A Balmar high-output alternator delivers significantly higher charging currents and fully charges the battery bank in a fraction of the time – less engine running time, more energy on board.

Overview of Balmar Alternator Series

6-Series – Best-Selling Marine Alternator (70–120 A / 12 V & 24 V)

Balmar 6-Series alternators offer high output in a compact, small housing and are available in all four common mounting configurations. They feature Balmar's patented Smart Ready® technology. If battery loads are relatively low and the engine runs frequently, the alternator's internal regulator may be sufficient to meet power demands without external regulation.

For larger battery banks, lithium batteries, or short engine run times – as in most sailing applications – combining with the Balmar ARS-5 or MC-618 charge regulator is recommended. All kits come with an alternator, regulator, and two temperature sensors.

Available Models:

XT-Series – High Output up to 250 A (12 V & 24 V)

The XT-Series offers 250 A alternators with more power at a lower price than the AT-Series. Ideal for onboard electrical systems with very high energy demands, large lithium battery banks, or dual-engine installations.

The XT-Series is available in various mounting configurations – including Hitachi-style for Yanmar, Westerbeke, Lehman, and Perkins-Sabre engines.

97XD-Series – Improved Low-RPM Performance

The 97XD-Series alternators offer improved performance at low RPMs – particularly important when motoring at slow speeds, entering a harbor, or during anchoring maneuvers, when engine speed is low but charging demand is high.

Intelligent Balmar Charge Regulators

All models feature a special external regulator that works with the Balmar SG 200 battery management system with network shunts and offers smartphone connectivity. With the help of the external Balmar alternator regulator, the alternator becomes a full-fledged charger. All battery types can be charged – including lithium batteries. During charging, the alternator's temperature is continuously measured to prevent overheating and failure.

Balmar MC-618 Regulator: Further development of the proven MC-614 with communication to the Balmar SG200 battery monitor, display on a 2-inch color screen, and optional Bluetooth smartphone app.

Balmar ARS-5 Regulator: Multi-stage charge regulator for the 6-Series – battery-friendly charging curves for all battery types.

Engine Compatibility – For Which Engines Are Balmar Alternators Available?

Balmar offers suitable alternators for all common marine diesel engines from Volvo Penta, Yanmar, Perkins, Vetus, Ford, and Nanni. Philippi, as an official distributor, offers specially optimized kits for Volvo and Yanmar engines:

• Alternator 12V-100A for Volvo Engines
• Alternator 12V-100A for Yanmar Engines
• Alternator 12V-120A for Volvo Engines
• Further power levels and engine adaptations on request

Belt Conversion Kits – Prerequisite for High Charging Performance

Above charging outputs of more than 100 A, classic V-belt systems often reach their limits. To retrofit larger alternators, conversion kits are offered for engines to switch from V-belts to multi-rib belts (serpentine belts).

The conversion to multi-rib belt systems offers several advantages: significantly better power transmission at high currents, less strain on engine bearings, less rubber abrasion in the engine compartment, and the possibility to use larger alternators up to 250 A.

Suitable conversion kits are available for many current and older boat engines – existing engines can thus be easily upgraded to modern alternator technology.

Perfect for Lithium Batteries and Modern Energy Management Systems

In combination with modern lithium batteries (LiFePO4), a powerful and fail-safe charging system is created. All battery types can be charged – including lithium batteries. The external regulator precisely controls charging voltage, charging current, and charge termination according to the requirements of the respective battery type – for maximum lifespan and optimal utilization of capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions about Balmar High-Output Alternators

Why do I need an external regulator? The internal regulator of a standard alternator is designed only for simple applications. An external Balmar regulator enables battery-specific charging curves (bulk, absorption, float), temperature monitoring of the alternator, and communication with battery monitors – crucial for optimal charging and long lifespan, especially with lithium batteries.

Can I simply replace my existing alternator with a Balmar? Existing alternators can be easily replaced with a Balmar alternator. For engines that require a belt conversion kit, Philippi offers suitable conversion kits.

For which engines are Balmar kits available at Philippi? Philippi stocks kits for Volvo Penta and Yanmar. Alternators for other engine brands such as Perkins, Vetus, Nanni, and Ford are available on request.

What is Smart Ready® technology? The patented Smart Ready® technology of the 6-Series allows operation with an internal regulator for simple applications, but can be extended at any time to full regulation by connecting an external Balmar regulator – without replacing the alternator itself.

Is the Balmar alternator suitable for 24 V onboard electrical systems? Yes. Balmar offers alternators for both 12 V and 24 V systems. For 24 V systems and dual-engine installations, a Max-Charge regulator kit is required.

Balmar High-Output Alternator · Marine Alternator Yacht · High-Current Charging System Boat · Balmar 6 Series · Balmar XT Series · Alternator Volvo Penta · Alternator Yanmar · External Charge Regulator Balmar MC618 · Lithium Battery Charging System · Belt Conversion Kit Boat · Philippi Balmar Distributor · Bluewater Cruising Power Supply