I want to build a 5500W e-BIAB rig with a controller based on Auber's solid state voltage regulator. This SCR looks similar to the Kyotto unit others are buying on eBay. The only complicating factors are that I'd like to add a main power switch (which I think implies a relay or contactor) and a combination volt/amp meter.
I will have a 240V 30A circuit professionally installed in my garage (with a 30A GFCI breaker in the main panel). I assume it will be a 4-wire circuit, and that I'll use a 4-wire dryer cord to provide power to my controller.
Question 1: Regarding the power switch, is there any benefit to using a 120V switch and a contactor with a 120V coil as opposed to a 240V switch and a 240V coil contactor?
Question 2: The volt/amp meter I found on eBay is rated for 240V, so if I go with a 240V switch/contactor, everything will be wired on 240. I'm wondering what to do with the neutral wire in the 4-wire dryer cord. Can it just be terminated on it's own lug or block in the enclosure, with nothing else connecting to it?
Question 3: Auber's SSVR is rated at 25A; a 5500W element should draw no more than 23A, so I should be "safe", but is there any reason to go with a SSVR rated for higher current? If it matters, the SSVR will be mounted to a great big heat sink salvaged from an old PC.
Thanks in advance for the help.
I will have a 240V 30A circuit professionally installed in my garage (with a 30A GFCI breaker in the main panel). I assume it will be a 4-wire circuit, and that I'll use a 4-wire dryer cord to provide power to my controller.
Question 1: Regarding the power switch, is there any benefit to using a 120V switch and a contactor with a 120V coil as opposed to a 240V switch and a 240V coil contactor?
Question 2: The volt/amp meter I found on eBay is rated for 240V, so if I go with a 240V switch/contactor, everything will be wired on 240. I'm wondering what to do with the neutral wire in the 4-wire dryer cord. Can it just be terminated on it's own lug or block in the enclosure, with nothing else connecting to it?
Question 3: Auber's SSVR is rated at 25A; a 5500W element should draw no more than 23A, so I should be "safe", but is there any reason to go with a SSVR rated for higher current? If it matters, the SSVR will be mounted to a great big heat sink salvaged from an old PC.
Thanks in advance for the help.