Sleipner PPC 840 Proportional Power Controller

Product Overview

The Sleipner PPC 840 is a Proportional Power Controller designed for Side-Power Thruster Systems. It utilizes PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and S-link control for precise operation. The unit offers thermal, under-voltage, and overcurrent protection.

Technical Specifications

Compatible Products

The PPC 840 is compatible with the following thruster:

• Model: PPC 840
• Thruster: SPP 285 TC 48V
• Thrust: 285/628 kg/lbs
• Thruster Voltage: 48 V
• Max Output Current: 550A

Dimensions

The unit dimensions are 190mm (Width) x 304mm (Height) x 143mm (Depth). Mounting holes are Ø8.60mm and 4 x Ø5.30mm.

Diagram Description: The diagram shows two views of the PPC 840 unit. One side view and one front view, illustrating the overall dimensions and connection terminals (B+, M-, B-).

Planning & Important Precautions

Prior to installation, read this guide thoroughly. Ensure the thruster is not installed in compartments requiring ignition-proof electric equipment. The electromotor generates carbon dust, so any storage compartment must be separated from the thruster. Ensure adequate ventilation for cooling. The unit can be installed horizontally or at any angle if height is limited, but must be supported if angled more than 30° from vertical. Handle the electromotor carefully, avoiding lifting by connections or placing it on the driveshaft. Keep installation within advised measurements, ensuring no part of the propeller or gearhouse extends outside the tunnel. All electrical connections must be kept dry. Antifouling paint is recommended for the gearhouse and propellers, but not for zinc anodes, sealings, or propeller shafts. Do not apply gelcoat or topcoat inside the tunnel; only primer and antifouling layers are permissible. When the boat is on land, run the thruster only for brief moments to avoid damage from rapid acceleration. Ensure propellers have stopped completely before changing direction. Mount the PPC unit in a dry, ventilated place with cable connections facing down. Ensure sufficient clearance around the unit (200mm over, 150mm under, 100mm front/sides). Do not install near flammable objects as the motor can reach over 100°C. Avoid storing items near the thruster motor due to heat. For boats classified under international or special rules, the installer is responsible for compliance with all regulations. These instructions are general; consult professionals if unsure.

NB! Faulty installation voids warranty.

Electrical Installation

Cable Sizing: Cable lengths for calculation include A+B+C+D+E (Fig. 1). Use correctly sized cables and high-capacity batteries for adequate thruster performance. Actual voltage at the motor determines RPM and thrust.

Main Switch: Install a main switch in the positive lead capable of handling the load without significant voltage drop. This allows independent power cutoff for the thruster. Place it in an accessible location and ensure it's noted in the boat's manual for shutdown.

Fuse: Install a fuse in the positive lead for short-circuit protection. Use high-quality, slow-acting fuses sized for the thruster's amperage draw for at least 5 minutes.

Automatic Main Switch: Installation of a Sleipner Automatic Main Switch (897724, serial# 0017664 or higher) is recommended. It includes automatic short-circuit fuse and manual emergency stop, with fault feedback to the panel.

Terminals: Fit cable ends with terminals and ensure they are well isolated. Tighten terminals securely, holding the inner nut. Do not use washers between lugs and terminals; place them on the outer side before tightening.

S-link System: Do not connect other control equipment to S-link products except original Side-Power S-link products or approved interface products. Doing so will void warranties. If interfacing via an agreement with Sleipner and a designated interface, an original Side-Power control panel must still be installed for troubleshooting.

Diagram Description (Fig. 1): The diagram illustrates the electrical connections for the PPC unit, including the thruster motor, battery bank, main switch, fuse, and S-link control cables. It shows recommended clearances for the PPC unit and notes on terminal connections.

Wiring Diagram

Wiring Diagram Example: The diagram shows the connection of the PPC unit to the thruster motor, battery bank, and control panel via the S-link system. It includes optional components like a gateway and external switch interface. Key connections include:

• PPC to B+ (grey wire)
• PPC to M- (blue wire)
• 8-way connector (1-8) for multi-cable to PPC
• S-link control cables (yellow, black)
• +12/24V supply for S-link system
• Battery bank connection (+ and -)
• Thruster motor connection
• Automatic Main Switch (AMS) or Manual main switch with fuse

Important Notes: PPC battery terminal polarity must be observed and connected correctly. The AMS must be supplied with 24V only.

Thruster Motor Wiring Diagram: This diagram details the internal wiring of the thruster motor, showing connections to the PPC via a multi-cable and 8-way connector. It includes components like D1, D2, A1, A2, and an NTC sensor (°C).

Control Panel and Control-Leads

Installation: Install as many panels as desired using optional Side-Power S-link T-connectors. If multiple panels operate in opposite directions, the thruster stops. If operated in the same direction, the output is determined by the strongest signal. Original Side-Power equipment is plug-and-go. If drive direction is reversed, swap the blue and grey wires on the thruster solenoid or adjust in the control panel SETUP.

Placement: Mount the thruster control panel in an easily accessible location, ideally where it can be operated with one hand simultaneously with the gear/throttle lever.

Important User Precautions

• Know the location of the main battery switch for emergency shutdown.
• Always turn off the main power switch before touching any thruster part to prevent accidental starts and injuries.
• Turn off the control device when the thruster is not in use.
• Maximum continuous usage is approx. 3 minutes. The electromotor has a thermal cut-off that will engage if overheating and re-engage upon cooling. Plan maneuvers accordingly.
• The thruster limits total running time; it cannot hold the boat in strong currents or winds for extended periods. Expect approximately 10% operational time depending on ambient temperatures.
• Never use a thruster near people in the water due to the risk of drawing them into the tunnel and causing injury from propellers.
• On land, run the thruster only momentarily. Without water resistance, it accelerates rapidly to damaging RPM. Ensure propellers stop completely before changing direction.
• If thrust is lost while the motor runs, stop immediately and turn off the thruster to prevent damage to the drive system.
• Always turn off the thruster's main power switch when leaving the boat.
• Keep main engines running while using the thruster to maintain battery charge and ensure optimal performance (higher voltage = higher torque).
• Thruster performance depends on available voltage, which decreases with battery age. New batteries restore performance.
• Use only one control at a time. Opposite directions from multiple panels stop the thruster; same direction allows operation.
• If the thruster malfunctions, identify and correct the cause promptly to prevent further damage. Turn off the main battery switch if the issue is electrical.
• Do not store items in the thruster compartment, as heat buildup can cause damage.

How to Use Side-Power Thrusters

Bowthruster Operation:

1. Turn on the main power switch for the bow thruster. (Turn off when not on board).
2. Practice thruster usage in open water to avoid boat damage.
3. Turn on the control panel by pressing both "ON" buttons simultaneously.
4. Move the joystick in the desired direction. Other controls like foot switches or throttle switches can be used via an S-link interface.
5. Disengage the control shortly before the desired position, as the boat will continue to move due to momentum.

Single Stern Thruster Operation: Used similarly to a bow thruster for moving the boat's stern.

Bow and Stern Thruster Combined Operation: Offers total maneuverability, allowing independent movement of bow and stern for sideways boat movement and rotation. Refer to the PCJ control panel manual for details. Practice in open water is recommended.

Diagram Description: The diagram shows a control panel with joysticks for bow and stern thrusters, a HOLD function, and buttons for ON/OFF, MENU, and light adjustment. It explains the function of each control element.

Troubleshooting

Before contacting support, perform the following tests and record measurements:

Electromotor runs, but no thrust:

• Check: Flexible coupling/shear pin and motor installation. Propeller and key/drive pin on prop-shaft. Gears engaging and driveshaft turning (with motor removed).
• Solution: Check/refit flexible coupling. Refasten/replace propeller and key/drive pin. For gearhouse failure, replace the gearhouse instead of attempting internal repair.

Thruster does not start or works only in one direction:

• Check: Refer to PCJ Control Panel manual for fault codes. Ensure SCAN SYSTEM procedure is completed as per panel manual.

Thruster has unexpected low performance:

• Check: Voltage at thruster when running (should be >42V). Brush-spring tension. Propeller, gearhouse, and tunnel for growth/barnacles.
• Solution: Ensure voltage is adequate. Check brush-springs for proper tension. Clean tunnel and propeller from growth.

Diagram Description: The troubleshooting section provides a table format for identifying problems and their corresponding solutions.

Warranty Statement

The equipment is warranted against defects in workmanship and materials for two years (Leisure Use) or one year (Commercial Use) from the date of purchase, provided proof of purchase is supplied. The warranty is transferable. For warranty claims, owners must provide a detailed written statement of the defect, including purchase details, installer information, and contact information. The defective part should be returned to Sleipner Motor AS or an authorized Service Centre at the owner's expense. If the defect is due to faulty material or workmanship, the unit will be repaired or replaced at Sleipner's option. Refunds are only granted if Sleipner cannot remedy the defect after reasonable attempts, and a professional supplier confirms installation compliance. Warranty service must be performed by Sleipner or an authorized center; unauthorized repairs void the warranty.

Exclusions: Warranty does not cover defects or damages caused by faulty installation, hook-up, abuse, misuse, excessive heat, salt/fresh water spray, or water immersion (unless specifically waterproof). No other express warranties are given. Sleipner is not liable for injury, property damage, loss of income/profit, or consequential damages arising from the equipment's use, failure, or malfunction, including collision damages.

This warranty grants specific legal rights, which may vary by country.

Contact Information

SLEIPNER MOTOR AS
P.O. Box 519
N-1612 Fredrikstad
Norway
www.side-power.com