Stillage Control Panel

[KY1792]

Just started on a panel to control my operation, it's mostly for looks but does have some good functionality. The heat controller is a solid state relay with the phase angle module attached powering a 5500 watt element, it is on the right side mounted to a scavenged VFD heat sink.

The two blue meters are for Amperes and Voltage (eBay $20 for the pair), while the three red temperature indicators will have the ability to shut the system down or control water valves at certain presets, their placements have yet to be determined.

I might have one temp controller turn on an Asco valve to add cooling water to my condenser recirculation tank when it gets too hot, another may be strapped to the column and shut down the process at around 210F.

I also have a programmable timer which can be used as a jar switcheroo alarm and perhaps even a system shutdown after a predetermined time, I may even add a dead man push button. I was almost going to use a PLC but decided to keep it simple with a half dozen relays.

My job as an automation electrician is to update antiquated systems to new computer controls and get to have all the old goodies. My boss who signs the package passes thinks I'm using the stuff for a solar water heating system.

[Prairiepiss]

I'm dazzled by tour techno babble.
Looks good. Where are you going to mount your helm?

[KY1792]

I'm dazzled by tour techno babble.
Looks good. Where are you going to mount your helm?

Do you mean "switcheroo" ?

I'm remodeling my utility room, being a single guy I had no use for my full size washer & dryer so retired them to the backyard and bought a pair of mini's instead. That opened up a lot of room and a dedicated 240v circuit.

Once I get my new boiler and flute I will custom build a counter to match my new stationary tub which will have a gray water french drain about 30' long so I don't have to lug a hot boiler to the fence line anymore.

[Prairiepiss]

That ought to be pretty nice. Wish I could do something like that. We went with a stacked set so we could fit the second refrigerator in there. Not enough room for a still.

[MuleKicker]

Awesome. My stillin buddy is an automation electrician. He is new to the distillin. Between the 2 of us, that is what we are working on. (However, using a PLC) I know how the still operates, and he knows how to program and do the automation domination thingy. I do have a fairly good electrical background from my job and also what I learn from him. I dont know how familliar you are with a still, but the only advice I can give you is: Get very familliar with how your still operates manually before you automate it. Not pickin on ya at all, its just that alot of guys come on here with the electrical smarts and no stillin backround. They think they can set this thing up push a button and walk away. The machinery does the rest. Not the case. Looks like ya got a good start.
Cheers, and keep us updated. MK

[rad14701]

I agree 100% with what MuleKicker stated... Don't get into development too deep unless you have a complete grasp of how distillation really works from a practical application standpoint based on at least several dozen manual runs... You might be amazed at what can creep up during an otherwise mundane distillation run...