Do I really need a power on switch if I have an E stop switch?

homebrewdude76 · Jun 12, 2016

If my E-stop switch is controlling my main power contactor, is there a reason why I need another power switch?

I was only planning on having the E stop and when it is rotated out the panel will have power.

atoughram · Jun 12, 2016

Two switches in series? One or the other is redundant.

Ozarks Mountain Brewery · Jun 12, 2016

I just use a breaker in the box as my on and off switch and no E-stop, its so easy just to tap the breaker with my hand and it trips

homebrewdude76 · Jun 13, 2016

I see people have a key switch, power switch and estop switch. Seems like only one is needed. And Estop seems quick to hit off.

doug293cz · Jun 13, 2016

You really only need one switch that controls main power, and it doesn't need to be an emergency off switch. EPO's are needed when you have moving parts that represent a potential injury hazard, in order to make everything stop instantly. There aren't (usually) any moving equipment hazards in a home brewery that warrant an EPO. I don't usually include EPO's on my designs. Nothing wrong with having an EPO switch however.

Brew on :mug:

beernutz · Jun 15, 2016

I included a keyed power on switch and a e-stop button using J-P's GFI tripping approach. It gives me peace of mind that I can trip the GFI and cut power to the box itself, and everything connected to it, quickly.

Disclaimer: I am not an electrician or an electrical engineer so this is definitely a fwiw opinion. I've only used my control panel about 5 brews and haven't had the opportunity to use the e-stop in an actual "emergency" situation but it has worked correctly 100% of the times I've tested it.