bzomerlei

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I was wondering if anyone has set up an automated way to make sure an electric heating element is fully immersed in liquid. I am using the BCS controller, and was thinking that a sensor to test for immersion could be monitored and used to determine if the element could be powered or not.

I suppose a float switch could be used in the HLT, but might be difficult to clean for the boil kettle.

I have seen capacitive proximity sensors that may be an option.

The other consideration here is cost/benefit; does it make sense to spend $60+ on a sensor to protect a $20 part...

Thoughts?

juvinious

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If you can get sensors similar to this working with BCS I think it would be a pretty clean design.

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IrregularPulse

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I vote float switch. Don't see it being a problem to clean. If there are any bugs left behind, they're getting boiled....

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wildwest450

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Jesus, how lazy are you guys?

bzomerlei

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Lol... I was not working the lazy angle.

Just thinking if there was a way to prevent burning up an element if it accidentally was energized while dry, or if the volume in the HLT dropped while sparging or cleaning in place.

bzomerlei

Recipes 

Looks like the liquid level boards from AMETEK may be an option. It will open or close a relay based on liquid contact.

dflipse

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I was really surprised not to see more people trying to incorporate something like this into their builds. Seems like the natural thing to do in an electric kettle. Is there something that I'm missing that makes this a bad idea? I, too, would simply like something that would not allow power to the elements unless they are immersed.