Heating Element Reducing

[theCougfan97]

What device can I use to reduce the power of my heating element. I would like to improve my ability to hold temperatures longer. Currently with just a Temp Controller when the element is on my temps spike. I am picturing something like a model train transformer where I can just turn a dial and the element will either cycle on and off or just reduce the voltage(?) and reduce its temperature output. Any suggestions? I am a Project Manager so my technical knowledge is non existent so easy is best (and cheap, because I use to be an accountant.)

 

[jpalarchio]

You can use something like this but there's going to be some DIY involved:

http://www.auberins.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_30&products_id=353

Otherwise there are some prebuilt solutions out there that do the same but as you can see, you have to pay up for them:

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

I image building it yourself would run around $100 for a finished product depending on what size element you're running.

The above are options where you're basically manually controlling the percentage of power being applied. Another option would be to look at using something like a PID where the amount of power applied is based on feedback of the current and target temperature.

 

[orangehero]

If you have a drill:

http://www.stilldragon.com/diy-controller.html

Cut up an extension cord from Harbor-Freight (search for 25% coupon) for the cable and wire.

 

[theCougfan97]

Looks like a winner, has anyone used this kit? Is assembly reasonably simple ie are there instructions?

If you have a drill:

http://www.stilldragon.com/diy-controller.html

Cut up an extension cord from Harbor-Freight (search for 25% coupon) for the cable and wire.

 

[theCougfan97]

On that same note has anyone had good experiences with stilldragon.com? I emailed them and havent heard back yet, but the pay now and we will tell you the shipping cost later worries me a bit.

 

[alien]

Their shipping was bit pricy last time I looked, about $12 for small orders. Customer service usually pretty good.

 

[Huff360]

Looks like a winner, has anyone used this kit? Is assembly reasonably simple ie are there instructions?

http://www.stilldragon.org/discussion/134/diy-power-controller

 

[Huff360]

Their shipping was bit pricy last time I looked, about $12 for small orders. Customer service usually pretty good.

My controller came in a Medium Flat Rate box for $12. That's 35 cents LESS than the walk in cost to ship that box. Online shipping rates are a little less, but not that much.

 

[theCougfan97]

Does the kit come with instructions for assembly?

 

[theCougfan97]

Does the kit come with instructions for assembly?

It does, at least customer service gave me a copy.