Planning 120V RIMS - Help Planning Controls

[smithmd4]

I'm relocating from an NYC apt back to the midwest. My situation is somewhat fluid so I can only plan for a 120V RIMS tube. The plan is for gas burners for BK & HLT, then a 2000W Low Density element RIMS tube to enable multiple mash rests and mashing out without infusions in my cooler mash tun.

The RIMS tube is very simple for me, so no issues with planning or building that. I know the need for a properly sized circuit, cord, GFI, etc. My issue comes with the controls.

I only plan on controlling the on/off of the element and I'm thinking of using a tool box or other small transportable box as a housing. What else would I need beyond a PID? Are there some PIDs that work better than others for brewing? If there are multiple options beyond the PID, what are the +/- for each?

Thanks in advance for any guidance on the subject!

 

[HBbrewing]

You will need a solid state relay (SSR). Here is a common PID that works well http://www.auberins.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=3

The datasheet for that PID has a diagram that will show how to hook it up to the relay and temperature sensor. I would also go to www.theelectricbrewery.com for more information.

 

[smithmd4]

Thanks.

I spent some time looking through there, but the scale of his project vs the scale of mine (at the moment at least) seemed quite distant. For example, does an SSR always need a heat sink or only in larger applications?

Any other tips, tricks, or other lessons learned building and packaging small scale RIMS systems are all appreciated.

 

[stlbeer]

Heat sinks should always be used with SSRs. I have heard of some folks mounting them directly to the inside of a metal control panel with thermal compound, but I don't recommend it.

I've used a 50 caliber ammo box to build RIMs controllers. You might be interested in these links.

http://s160.photobucket.com/user/StLBeer/library/Brewing and Serving/RIMS?sort=3&page=1

 

[kal]

Heat sinks should always be used with SSRs. I have heard of some folks mounting them directly to the inside of a metal control panel with thermal compound, but I don't recommend it.

+1 to that. You want the heat to escape. Electronics that is kept cooler lasts longer.

Kal