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RIMS PID/SSR/heatsink/wiring enclosure

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erikrocks

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Location
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I'm in the process of putting together a simple RIMS system that will use a RTD + 120v element + power cord to simply maintain mash temp. My question is WHAT to use in order to house the PID, SSR+heatsink, and wiring. Do people just use simple junction boxes from Lowes? How do you mount everything into the box? Anyone have any pictures?
 
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You can use the box you describe, and many people do. I found this box on ebay for just a few dollars more than the junction boxes at Lowes. Here is the link to it on ebay. They are very nice. Waterproof and very durable. And removable back plate so you can wire outside the box (very handy) and then just bolt the backer plate back into the box.
 
Your setup looks great. The thing is, I'm going ultra-simple. No switches, lights, dials, etc. Just the PID, one SSR/HS, and wiring. I'll just plug it into a switched outlet. 10x8x6 is a bit large for my needs.

Anyone else have such a simple box?
 
If I had known about this when I ordered my PID, SSR, and RTD from Auber, I would have picked it up, as well. I'm not going to pay the $13 shipping now, though.
 
I see your point. But I strongly recommend a removable back-plate. Wiring is so much easier with them. You could probably use a 6"X8" project box from radio shack if your hands are small and nimble.
 
The thing is, I'm going ultra-simple. No switches, lights, dials, etc. Just the PID, one SSR/HS, and wiring. I'll just plug it into a switched outlet. 10x8x6 is a bit large for my needs.

Anyone else have such a simple box?
Almost;)
I don't like to build control boxes without a power shut off of any kind.
Here is a simple fermentation control setup with one shut off and circuit protection.
Fermenter_Controller-1.jpg


Reelale you have a very nice looking control box.
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Cheers,
ClaudiusB
 
Almost;)
I don't like to build control boxes without a power shut off of any kind.
Here is a simple fermentation control setup with one shut off and circuit protection.


Reelale you have a very nice looking control box.

Cheers,
ClaudiusB
Thanks, but I have to give bull8042 the credit. As much as I disdain that.....
 
I'm in the process of putting together a simple RIMS system that will use a RTD + 120v element + power cord to simply maintain mash temp. My question is WHAT to use in order to house the PID, SSR+heatsink, and wiring. Do people just use simple junction boxes from Lowes? How do you mount everything into the box? Anyone have any pictures?

GI ammo can?

I've got my PID, pump, wiring & all stuffed in one. Everything but the element, and the mash tun.
 
Here's mine not as elaborate as some but it works very well. I'm running a RIMS system and I have a plug connecting the RIMS tube to the control panel. I hope to be able to unplug the RIMS tube and make a heat stick that I can manually power the heatstick to help with my propane usage anyway here it is. Inline fuses have been added for a little security. I was going to paint it but I havent gotten around to it because it works without it
beer004.jpg


beer002.jpg
 
This thread might be dead, but I hope someone can give some feedback. I got a plastic junction box from bLowe's for my controller box. Will that stand up to the heat from a 25a SSR with a heat sink? Wish I'd have seen the link for the box at Auber's. I bought all my electrical from them. Didn't think about that.
 
I have seen alot of setups for electric BBQ smokers (same principle) where the ssr was mounted to a wall with the heatsink outside the plastic box.
 
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