BD's Electric Pot Still Quick Questions

[Bearded Distiller]

Howdy HD,

I am just converting my Pot to electric, and have two quick questions.

Does the attached diagram look alright?

All of the DIY diagrams and what not a heating and cooling outlet (For Reference: https://i.ytimg.com/vi/7I-iwFLykxs/hqdefault.jpg" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" rel="nofollow )

I dont really see the need for the cooling outlet, so I was just going to eliminate it.

Also, I have a quick question about the probe. I already have a good thermometer on the still, can I just tape the prob to the outside of the still (or something like that), set the temperature on the controller, and watch the current one?

Does that even make sense haha?

Thanks for the help!

BD

[still_stirrin]

The STC1000 has a limited current capability. So, it isn't built to handle a high watt element.

But more importantly, it is NOT the right tool to regulate boiler heat. It is a temperature controller and you cannot run a boiler by temperature. If you don't understand this....you've got a lot more reading to do.

The STC1000 is good for managing temperature for a fermenter however. That's where temperature control IS critical.
ss

[rad14701]

In addition to the information provided by still_stirrin, mounting a temperature probe on the outside of your column would not provide as rapid or accurate of readings as being directly in the vapor path... But considering how the STC1000 isn't the right tool for the job it's a good thing you haven't drilled a hole for a thermowell yet...

[Bearded Distiller]

Thanks for the feedback guys. Glad I posted before I went ahead with it.

Just read Cranky's build front to back, and will post up on my revised project.

[bluefish_dist]

I would use the super simple controller. I built one and have been using it with a meter from ebay. It allows me to regulate the power easily. I now see that my line voltage varies by 5+ volts during the day. That changes the power input.

A simple solid state relay with resistor control wired into one leg of the circuit. Then a $10 volt/amp meter wired into the high voltage side of the SSR. You can add another relay with a switch to turn it on and off. Probably $35 for the whole setup.

[cranky]

I'm very happy with my SSR. The alternative is the all in one controllers discussed in Jimbo's thread http://homedistiller.org/forum/viewtopi ... =2&t=43456" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" rel="nofollow