RIMS controller: PID vs Johnson controller

[smugslug]

I'm using a homemade rims tube with a 1500w element at 115v, and I'm getting a substantial amount of buildup on the element during the mash. I've also been using a Johnson controller instead of a PID.

My question is: what's the best way to spend my money to reduce that buildup? Would I be be better to get a bigger pipe and lower density element for the tube, or get my hands on a PID?

I guess my thought was the rapid cycling of the PID may lead to less scorching than the constant power from the Johnson. Am I right in thinking that?

Thanks for any help!

 

[augiedoggy]

Well ideally a ulwd element and faster pid control would both dramatically improve things... IF you can only afford one I would spend the $50 on building a simple pid controller... for 120v it wouldbe extremely cheap and easy to wire up. The faster on/ off switching will prevent the surface of the element from getting as hot as it is now with the time delays built onto your Johnson injt to protect the relay inside as well as the refrigeration compressor it was designed to control.

 

[smugslug]

Yeah, that's what I'd assumed. Thanks for the reply!