Using a potentiometer with 120V for HLT?

[jflongo]

I eventually will be going to 240V, but I already have a bunch of 120V 20A GFI outlets in my garage. I currently have a 4500W 240V heating element that I bought, to install into my Keggle.

Just for a quick and cheap way to get this thing working, could I just hook up a switch and potentiometer with a knob, and test this out?

Also, I know your run two hots to this for 240V, for 120V, do you just run the hot and neutral to it?

 

[IslandLizard]

You should consider staying away from electrical DIY projects. That post makes me cringe.

 

[raouliii]

You have a 4500W/240V resistive element which calculates to 12.8ohms. If 120V is applied, it will operate at 1125W/120V. Will 1125W be enough for the HLT?

What "potentiometer" do you have in mind?

 

[iijakii]

Sure get one of these, heatsink and a switch on the hot. I'm sure you can find one cheaper on eBay if you want. http://www.auberins.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_30&products_id=332

This is probably one of the scenarios where the Stilldragon controller is a good deal.

 

[jflongo]

You have a 4500W/240V resistive element which calculates to 12.8ohms. If 120V is applied, it will operate at 1125W/120V. Will 1125W be enough for the HLT?

What "potentiometer" do you have in mind?

I was thinking of going this route, after seeing a different thread.

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

 

[jflongo]

I was thinking of going this route, after seeing a different thread.

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

If you guys think this stilldragon diy controller, is a good budget way, then I may go ahead and use 240V. I have a previous welder outlet I'm no longer using, I just have to see if it's 10/3 or 10/4 wire.

 

[DaleHair]

It would be bery hard to beat the StillDragon prices

 

[jflongo]

It would be bery hard to beat the StillDragon prices

I just pulled the trigger on it, and ordered it. I also have a digital electric adapter that displays voltage/amps, so should be able to wire that in as well. Thanks.

 

[Brumateur]

It would be bery hard to beat the StillDragon prices

But still possible-
http://www.ebay.com/itm/1pc-KYOTTO-AC-Solid-State-Relay-SSR-KR2040AX-280VAC-40A/140553987088

 

[Flboy]

Get a whole life policy first!

 

[DaleHair]

But still possible-
http://www.ebay.com/itm/1pc-KYOTTO-AC-Solid-State-Relay-SSR-KR2040AX-280VAC-40A/140553987088

That's a start for what is needed, and it ships from China.

 

[mattd2]

It would be bery hard to beat the StillDragon prices

Can't see what Brumateur posted at work but also ebay search for SCR 8000W or 10000W. basically it is what is interanally in the SSVR out on a PCB with heat sink attached (go 1.5 - 2x oversized otherwise you will need to fan cool the thing). Then all you need to do it connect your wires and mount it in a box.

 

[jflongo]

I ordered from StillDragon already, I'll see how that goes. Thanks.

 

[carlitos]

Any updates

 

[jflongo]

Any updates

If that is for me, I am still in the process of building mine. While I like the SSR, Heat Sink, Potentiometer, Cord Holders, etc, make sure you get a bigger box. I ended getting an 8 x 8 x 4 from Lowes, since the one that comes with the kit is way too small. If I finish mine in the next few weeks, I'll post a youtube video of it here.

 

[carlitos]

If that is for me, I am still in the process of building mine. While I like the SSR, Heat Sink, Potentiometer, Cord Holders, etc, make sure you get a bigger box. I ended getting an 8 x 8 x 4 from Lowes, since the one that comes with the kit is way too small. If I finish mine in the next few weeks, I'll post a youtube video of it here.

Nice. I am thinking of doing the same thing that's why I asked.

 

[atoughram]

I just completed a similiar project with a NEMA 1 enclosure from Zoro Tools. It was 8 X 6 X 4" and less than $20

http://www.zorotools.com/g/NEMA 1 Screw Cover Enclosures/00155543/?category=4516

 

[jflongo]

Here's the one I got from lowes, that is 8x8x4. I'm pretty sure I paid under $20 for it, but can't find the price online.

http://www.lowes.com/pd_145145-223-...03697+4294819789_4294937087?productId=3260229