Solar Panels
Solar Controllers
Batteries
Inverters
Mains Chargers
DC-DC Chargers
Cables/Accessories
Power Converters
Monitoring
Kits
Balmar 12V Alternator Protection Module
Balmar 12V Alternator Protection Module
Solid-state surge protection for alternators—clamps load dumps and spikes, with visual and audible failure alerts
Regular price
$181.80
Availability:
Special Order
Guaranteed Safe and Secure Checkout
0
DESCRIPTION
Balmar Alternator Protection Module: Solid-State Defence Against Voltage Spikes and Load Dumps
Safeguard Your Alternator from Lithium BMS Disconnects, Switch Interruptions, and Inductive Surges
The Balmar Alternator Protection Module (APM) provides robust, solid-state protection for your alternator’s diodes and internal regulator. Designed to clamp high-energy voltage spikes and absorb sustained over-voltage conditions, the APM is essential for any charging system exposed to lithium battery BMS disconnects, battery switch interruptions, or surges from solenoids, combiners, and starter motors. Without protection, these events can instantly destroy an alternator—the APM eliminates that risk.
Engineered to meet stringent international standards, the APM mounts directly at the rear of the alternator between the B+ and B- terminals, ensuring the shortest possible path for surge diversion. Its compact, sealed design withstands harsh marine and automotive environments, including salt spray and fog, making it ideal for marine alternator protection, RV electrical systems, and off-grid power setups.
How the APM Protects Your Alternator
Voltage spikes occur when a load is suddenly removed from the alternator—such as a lithium battery’s BMS opening under full charge. The resulting load dump can generate spikes well above the alternator’s rating, puncturing diodes and frying regulators. The Balmar APM instantly clamps these transients, absorbing surge currents in excess of 200 A without failure. It also handles sustained over-voltage conditions, shunting excess energy away from sensitive electronics.
Unlike sacrificial devices that fail after a single event, the APM is designed for repeated surges. A green LED indicates active protection; if the module is ever compromised, a red LED and audible alarm alert you to replace it—providing clear, immediate status without guesswork.
Key Features
- Solid-state surge protection clamps voltage spikes and absorbs load-dump energy
- Protects against lithium BMS disconnects, battery switch interruptions, and inductive surges
- Surge absorption in excess of 200 A for repeated events without failure
- Visual and audible failure indication: green LED = protecting; red LED + beep = replace
- Compact, direct-mount design installs at alternator B+ and B- terminals
- Meets ISO 16750-2, ISO 7637-2, SAE J1171, and ASTM B117 for load dump, surge, ignition protection, and salt spray
- Compatible with all alternator brands and isolated or case-grounded configurations
Built for Harsh Environments
The APM’s sealed electronics and corrosion-resistant construction meet ASTM B117 salt spray/fog standards, ensuring reliable operation in coastal and marine applications. SAE J1171 ignition protection makes it safe for installation in engine rooms and other hazardous areas. Whether you’re powering a marine alternator on a bluewater cruiser, a 12V alternator in a mining vehicle, or a 12V alternator in an off-grid solar system, the APM delivers consistent, maintenance-free defence.
Simple Installation, Immediate Protection
Installation is straightforward: connect the red lead to the alternator’s B+ post and the black lead to B- (isolated ground alternators) or to a case mounting bolt (case ground alternators). The module’s small footprint fits neatly behind the alternator, requiring no additional brackets or wiring runs. Once connected, the APM begins protecting immediately—no configuration needed.
Clamping up to 60 V for 12 V systems, with sustained over-voltage protection beginning around 20 V
Protect Your Investment Today
Don’t leave your alternator vulnerable to a single disconnect event. Install the Balmar Alternator Protection Module and gain peace of mind knowing your charging system is shielded against the most common and destructive electrical faults. Order now to safeguard your alternator and keep your power system running reliably.
SKU: BAL-APM-12
SPECIFICATIONS
Specifications
| Model | APM-12 |
|---|---|
| Volts | 12 V |
| Protects Against | Battery switch disconnects; Lithium battery BMS disconnects; Surges from solenoids, combiners, starters and other motors |
| Spike Protection | Clamping up to 60 V |
| Sustained Over-voltage Conditions | Beginning around 20 V |
| Surge Absorption | In excess of 200 A |
| Status Indication | Green LED = Protecting; Red LED and/or beep = Protection failure, replace APM |
| Standards | ISO 16750-2 for Load-Dump Surge Specification; ISO-7637-2 for Surge Capability; SAE J1171 for Ignition Protection; ASTM B117 for Salt Spray/Fog |
| Mounting Location | Rear of the alternator between the B+ and B- terminals |
| Compatibility | All alternator brands |
| SKU: | BAL-APM-12 |
| Model #: | BAL-APM-12 |
| MPN: | BAL-APM-12 |
WARRANTY
Balmar Warranty & Returns Process
Balmar Limited Warranty Balmar’s Limited Warranty covers defects in material or workmanship on new Balmar products generally for a period of two (2) years from the purchase date. Only consumers or dealers purchasing Balmar products from authorized Balmar retailers or resellers and installed by qualified installers may obtain coverage under Balmar’s Limited Warranty. Components with a manufacturing date greater than ten (10) years old are not covered under the Balmar Warranty, even if the purchase date has been within the past two (2) years. Purchases from unauthorized resellers, which may include some online entities, may not guarantee the purchaser will receive a newly manufactured component, and therefore does not guarantee Warranty coverage.
Warranty Resolution If Balmar authorizes a product to be returned to Balmar or an authorized service provider, Balmar will repair the product or replace it without charge with a functionally equivalent replacement product. Balmar may replace the product with a product that was previously in service or repaired, but re-tested to meet Balmar specifications. Balmar will pay to ship the replacement product to the purchaser. By sending the product for replacement, ownership of the original product will be transferred to Balmar. Labor charges at the consumer’s site are not covered under this Warranty. Balmar warrants that repaired or replaced products shall be covered under the Balmar Warranty for the remainder of the original product warranty, or 90 days, whichever is greater.
