SMS: Surface Mount System

Since July 2010, ABYC standards require all new boats with a shore power connection to include ELCI whole-boat protection to guard against electrical shock and drowning of those on and around the vessel. For a detailed discussion of these dangers, see this article.

Blue Sea Systems now provides four mounting methods that enable boatbuilders and owners to meet ABYC standards for Equipment Leakage Circuit Interrupter (ELCI) protection. The latest is the new Surface Mount System enclosure.

The Surface Mount System (SMS) is a versatile, waterproof enclosure configured to accommodate Carling Technologies™, A and C Series Flat Rocker and ELCI Main circuit breakers. When used with an ELCI Main circuit breaker, and mounted no further than the reach of a 10ft. cable from the AC power inlet, the SMS meets ABYC requirements.

The enclosure base and cover is made from rugged glass-filled polycarbonate. The clear, sealed cover allows easy view of circuit breaker status, and overlaps the enclosure for strength and increased gasket protection. Hinge, latch, and all hardware are made from stainless steel.

The waterproof Surface Mount System is designed to be mounted on the vessel, in any of several locations. Typically it would mount in an engine compartment, machine space, lazarette, or shore cord storage compartment. Since the SMS is waterproof, it is not vulnerable to moisture in these locations.

Cable glands are included with SMS models with a mounted circuit breaker and can also be purchased separately.

Specifications and configurations for the Surface Mount System are shown below.