'Common ground' questions

[Hatteras58]

I've had some conversations with friends recently about grounding of DC circuits on boats. Some of these guys are as clueless as me about electrical systems, but a few clearly know what they are talking about (I try to listen more to them!). The basic question is should my 12v, 24v and 32v systems all be tied together with a "common ground"? At least one person believes that the common bond should also include the AC system.

Quite frankly, I don't know what any of this means and I am asking for someone to explain this common bond issue in very SIMPLE terms. For example, how do you tie the battery banks for each of these voltage systems together? If it's a hefty green bond wire connected to the negative terminal of each bank, where does the other end go?

Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Michael E
Southern Comfort, 1977 Hatteras 58YF

 

[Boatsb]

There's an issue with DIY electrical projects. Its based on too many don't know the basics.

Answer any number of questions and leave more unasked or unanswered.

If you don't have a good understanding of how the DC system works its time to call in an expert.

By the way DIY surgery, DIY medicating and DIY explosives are more examples of things NOT TO DO.

 

[oscarvan]

I'll get the popcorn ready......

This is a subject where you will find very differing opinions, and strong ones at that.

 

[SKYCHENEY]

I've had some conversations with friends recently about grounding of DC circuits on boats. Some of these guys are as clueless as me about electrical systems, but a few clearly know what they are talking about (I try to listen more to them!). The basic question is should my 12v, 24v and 32v systems all be tied together with a "common ground"? At least one person believes that the common bond should also include the AC system.

Quite frankly, I don't know what any of this means and I am asking for someone to explain this common bond issue in very SIMPLE terms. For example, how do you tie the battery banks for each of these voltage systems together? If it's a hefty green bond wire connected to the negative terminal of each bank, where does the other end go?

Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Michael E
Southern Comfort, 1977 Hatteras 58YF

Open your boxes where the battery switches are. You will see a heavy grounding bar where the battery grounds terminate. All of them, regardless of voltage should terminate there. Don't worry about bonding, that is already in place.

 

[Hatteras58]

Thanks Sky for the input, I'll look into that. And Scott (BoatsB).... brilliant response! You must have stayed at a Holiday Inn Express to come up with that impressive feedback!