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

[homebrewdude76]

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]

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

 

[Ozarks Mountain Brewery]

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]

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]

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

 

[beernutz]

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.