Victron Energy Phoenix Charger 24/16 (2+1) 120–240V – PCH024016001

Product Overview

The Victron Energy Phoenix Charger 24/16 (2+1) 120–240V (PCH024016001) is a professional, microprocessor-controlled battery charger designed for 24V battery systems in demanding marine, commercial, industrial and off-grid applications.

Featuring an intelligent four-stage adaptive charging system, universal AC and DC input capability and three independent battery outputs, it provides reliable and efficient battery charging for installations requiring dependable power management.

The charger delivers up to 16A to the main battery bank, with a second full-current output and a dedicated 4A starter battery output. Its advanced battery management system automatically adjusts the charging process according to battery usage, helping maintain battery performance and extend service life.

Adaptive Four-Stage Charging Technology

The Phoenix Charger uses an intelligent four-stage charging algorithm consisting of bulk, absorption, float and storage.

During the bulk stage, the charger delivers its maximum available current to restore battery capacity efficiently. The absorption stage completes the charging process by maintaining the appropriate voltage while reducing the current as the battery approaches full charge.

Once charging is complete, the float stage maintains battery charge. During extended periods of inactivity, the storage stage reduces the charging voltage to help minimise battery ageing and unnecessary electrolyte loss.

The adaptive charging system automatically adjusts absorption time according to how deeply the battery has been discharged. Shallow discharges result in shorter absorption periods, while deeper discharges receive longer absorption charging to ensure the battery is properly replenished.

Three Battery Outputs – 2+1 Configuration

The Phoenix Charger features two full-current outputs and one dedicated starter battery output.

The two main outputs provide charging capacity for the primary battery installation, while the additional 4A output is designed for maintaining a separate starter battery.

This configuration is particularly useful in marine installations, where a larger 24V domestic battery bank needs to be charged alongside a separate engine-starting battery.

Temperature Compensation and Battery Voltage Sensing

An included battery temperature sensor allows the charger to adjust its charging voltage according to battery temperature. As battery temperature increases, the charging voltage is automatically reduced to help protect the battery and improve charging performance.

The integrated battery voltage sensing facility compensates for voltage losses caused by resistance in the battery cables. This helps ensure that the correct charging voltage reaches the battery terminals, even where longer cable runs are required.

Universal AC and DC Input

The Phoenix Charger supports a wide AC input voltage range of 90–265V AC at 45–65Hz, making it suitable for different electrical supply systems around the world.

It can also operate from a 90–400V DC supply, allowing greater flexibility in specialist power installations and alternative supply configurations.

This universal input capability makes the charger particularly suitable for marine, industrial and commercial environments where electrical supply conditions can vary.

Applications and Usage

The Victron Phoenix Charger 24/16 is suitable for 24V battery installations in boats, yachts, commercial vessels, industrial equipment, off-grid power systems and specialist vehicle applications.

Its dual main outputs and dedicated starter battery connection make it especially useful in marine installations with separate domestic and engine-starting battery banks.

The adaptive charging system, temperature compensation and storage mode also make it suitable for installations where batteries remain connected to a charging supply for extended periods.

Technical Specifications

The PCH024016001 operates with a nominal 24V battery system and provides a maximum charging current of 16A to the main battery outputs, together with a separate 4A starter battery output.

The absorption charging voltage is 28.8V, the float voltage is 27.6V and the storage voltage is 26.4V. It uses an adaptive four-stage charging algorithm and is recommended for battery capacities of approximately 100–200Ah.

The AC input voltage range is 90–265V AC at 45–65Hz, while the DC input voltage range is 90–400V DC. The charger has a power factor of 1 and can also be used as a DC power supply.

The unit features forced-air cooling, an included battery temperature sensor, battery voltage sensing and an RS-485 communication interface for configuration through Victron VEConfigure software.

Its protection features include output short-circuit protection, over-temperature protection, high battery voltage protection and reverse battery polarity protection.

The aluminium enclosure has an IP21 protection rating and measures approximately 350 x 200 x 108mm. The charger weighs approximately 3.8kg and operates within an ambient temperature range of -20°C to +60°C.

Battery connections use M6 terminals, while the AC connections use screw terminals.

Configuration and Installation

The Phoenix Charger can be configured using Victron VEConfigure software through its RS-485 communication interface. An appropriate interface, such as the MK2-USB data link, is required for computer configuration and is not included as standard.

The charger is designed for installation in a suitable, ventilated location because it uses forced-air cooling. Battery cables should be correctly sized and connected securely, with appropriate external circuit protection installed in accordance with the installation requirements.

The included temperature sensor should be positioned and connected according to Victron's installation guidance to ensure accurate temperature-compensated charging.

Product Summary

The Victron Energy Phoenix Charger 24/16 (2+1) is a versatile and reliable battery charger designed for professional 24V installations. Combining adaptive four-stage charging, two full-current outputs, a dedicated 4A starter battery output, temperature compensation and universal AC/DC input, it provides flexible battery charging for demanding marine, commercial and off-grid applications.