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Still Dragon DIY Controller build- 220
Posted: Sat Feb 27, 2021 4:07 pm
by Tom Kat
I went with the larger box. Step one is to ventilate the box. I started with a pilot hole and used a step bit to make my air holes.
the
Re: Still Dragon DIY Controller build- 220
Posted: Sat Feb 27, 2021 4:35 pm
by Deplorable
This thread is relavent to my intrest. Please proceed.
I''m planning on building one of these next month, with the possibility of a couple of additions.
Re: Still Dragon DIY Controller build- 220
Posted: Sun Feb 28, 2021 3:27 am
by Tom Kat
I sure will. Step by step-
Re: Still Dragon DIY Controller build- 220
Posted: Sun Feb 28, 2021 4:17 am
by Euphoria
This was my "build." I bought a large generic electrical "J" Box from Lowes "big box store," and I also installed a computer "pancake" fan for drawing in cooling air, and a grilled vent for hot air discharge.
Re: Still Dragon DIY Controller build- 220
Posted: Sun Feb 28, 2021 9:43 am
by Tom Kat
That looks nice, I like the fan idea.
Did they include the screws to mount the parts in your kit?
Re: Still Dragon DIY Controller build- 220
Posted: Sun Feb 28, 2021 10:01 am
by LWTCS
Tom Kat wrote: ↑Sun Feb 28, 2021 9:43 am
That looks nice, I like the fan idea.
Did they include the screws to mount the parts in your kit?
Screws for mounting heat sink, SSR, feet are included.
Re: Still Dragon DIY Controller build- 220
Posted: Thu Mar 04, 2021 11:35 am
by ezlle71
I like the use of a breaker in the control box for a on off switch. I bought a SSVR Kit years ago and the on off switch gave up on me. so i had to just direct connect it. This is a good idea for that solution. thank you
Re: Still Dragon DIY Controller build- 220
Posted: Thu Mar 04, 2021 9:17 pm
by richard1
My comment is with respect to your heat sink.
To locate your heat sink inside your box as far as I am concerned is wrong and ought be positioned on the exterior. This is easily accomplished with a few cut outs for a SS plate and subsequent mounting. This way, your heat is kept external doing away with fan requirements.
For my 60L stills I do this as a standard and no internal excessive temperature is encountered even when running at 5.5KW
Re: Still Dragon DIY Controller build- 220
Posted: Sun Mar 07, 2021 3:29 pm
by Tom Kat
Re: Still Dragon DIY Controller build- 220
Posted: Sun Mar 07, 2021 3:29 pm
by Tom Kat
Re: Still Dragon DIY Controller build- 220
Posted: Sun Mar 07, 2021 3:32 pm
by Tom Kat
It's important to have your element covered with liquid BTW.
Re: Still Dragon DIY Controller build- 220
Posted: Sun Mar 07, 2021 3:42 pm
by shadylane
You didn't

Re: Still Dragon DIY Controller build- 220
Posted: Sun Mar 07, 2021 4:14 pm
by Zeotropic
Tom Kat wrote:It's important to have your element covered with liquid BTW.
image(4).jpeg
I discovered that in my water heater the other night. [emoji2957]
Re: Still Dragon DIY Controller build- 220
Posted: Sun Mar 07, 2021 5:11 pm
by Deplorable
Tom Kat wrote: ↑Sun Mar 07, 2021 3:32 pm
It's important to have your element covered with liquid BTW. image(4).jpeg
Damn. That cost ya more than my fuck up. Education is expensive isn't it?
Re: Still Dragon DIY Controller build- 220
Posted: Sun Mar 07, 2021 5:19 pm
by Tom Kat
Yeah that was a $90 fuck up, born of ignorance and excitement.
Oh well, wont be the last time I am sure.
The worst part is being on the 99 yard line and fumbling. My son did a great job wiring up the controller, installing a 30 amp breaker, and running the 10/23 Romex.
So now I get to clean mason jars, read about distilling, and wait for my new element. Hopefully my DADY and nutriant etc will get here soon and I can start some birdwatchers.
Re: Still Dragon DIY Controller build- 220
Posted: Sun Mar 07, 2021 5:23 pm
by Deplorable
I smoked 2 pots and a SSVR, and had to run 28 gallons on propane. 3 stripping runs yesterday and a spirit run today.
New parts will be here well before I need them again. I'm pretty well stocked up right now.