Brew Kettle Controller

[smoothlarryhughes]

Anyone have any instructions or threads that show how to build something similar to this for cheaper?

http://www.highgravitybrew.com/productcart/pc/Electric-Kettle-Controller-306p3084.htm

Looking to install a 5500 watt element in my brew kettle but would like to be able to control the power going to it to avoid boil overs...any help would be great. I've searched the forums and haven't found something like this.

Thanks!

 

[Brewing Clamper]

I built one using a PWM and a 40amp SSR. I used this schematic to etch the circuit board:

There are more instructions on the site: http://hbd.org/cdp/boilnew/boilnew.htm

It's an oldie but goodie...

 

[smoothlarryhughes]

Any photos showing the build of the controller?

 

[Junkster]

Search this site for PWM controllers.....

 

[Dirty]

https://www.homebrewtalk.com/f170/pwm-show-us-how-221301/

Easy to build. Spent around 20 for the PWM and SSR on ebay.

Rock Chalk


Chris

 

[thargrav]

Anyone have any instructions or threads that show how to build something similar to this for cheaper?

http://www.highgravitybrew.com/productcart/pc/Electric-Kettle-Controller-306p3084.htm

Looking to install a 5500 watt element in my brew kettle but would like to be able to control the power going to it to avoid boil overs...any help would be great. I've searched the forums and haven't found something like this.

Thanks!

I am just finishing up the design of our electric brew controller. Ours also has a aux / pump switch and outlet. Unfortunately it will also be somewhere close to $300. You may be able to build something cheaper but you are also contributing your design, labor and testing into your controller. I attached a picture.

 

[Dgonza9]

I know this is a bit different, but you can put a PID in a small box and use manual mode, plus have other functionality.

 

[thargrav]

I agree that a PID is a more capable box but when boiling wurt it's a lot easier to turn a knob than reprogram the PID's PWM. I'd even argue that it would be easier to manage mash temperature in a RIMS system. Need to raise your mash 4 degrees? Crank the knob all the way up until the temperature is right then turn the heat back down.

 

[Dgonza9]

A PID is just as easy. You push a button to get into manual mode. Then you use the up and down arrow to control the percent power to the element. In fact, you can figure the optimal percent for your boil and just set it, instead of fiddling with a knob. There's really no "programming" involved with a PID.

 

[_swede_]

This is about as cheap as it gets. You can make a phase angle controller with a "SSR-VA" type ssr and a potentiometer. There's a pretty good writeup on how to build one here http://aussiedistiller.com.au/viewtopic.php?f=24&t=933