PID Controller on casting pot

[beekeeper]

Does anyone here use One?
Where did you buy it?
Build it yourself?
What cost?

Lot of silly questions but am interested in getting / making one and need some advice.


beekeeper

[62chevy]

I don't see it as a silly question at all. I'm sure others would like to know too.

[Chickenthief]

I dunnit on all my pots.

This is a 220V build, please buy according to your national voltage (Thats you US guys).
It can be done for less than $30US if you have some tidbits at home.

First order a PID controller with temp probe (This is Celsius only!):
http://www.dx.com/p/digital-temperature ... 71-VKxiZ8c

If you do not want to or cant solder a holder for the probe then please buy this external temp probe:
http://www.dx.com/p/k-type-thermocouple ... rey-213591

Next a SSR (Solid State Relay):
http://www.dx.com/p/ssr-10va-solid-stat ... 71_aaxiZ8c

If you choose to buy something else please bear in mind that there are 4 different types of SSR and you want the VA type that turns on when it is shorted ie. controlled by a voltage less relay contact.

I silver soldered a piece of brass that i drilled and tapped for 1/4" NC that accomodates the probe end.


The case for the PID controller i mounted on the back of the pot stand:



A couple of holes for wires:


Wiring the controller:



Wiring scematics:


I cut and placed a piece of Lexan/polycarbonate plastic where the old thermostat was so lead splatter wont ruin the fine controller:


The finished pot:


Some notes:
The PID i linked to is Celsius only!!!
The wiring is not touch proof the way i have done it, please bear that in mind when you do yours and alter design accordingly.
The relay in the PID controller is rated at 3A so a 220V pot can be run without the SSR.
The SSR needs some cooling so mount it on the inside of the stand facing away from the pot (the only place where there is room for it).

[Ranch Dog]

Welcome to the forum Chickenthief!

[akuser47]

Yes welcome chickenthief well wrote up how to thanks

[Fyodor]

Thanks for the write up, and "herzlich willkommen"!