cxp073
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Dec 3, 2013
- Messages
- 83
- Reaction score
- 3
Hello everyone
I am attempting to move to a RIMS system, and, although it is still in development, I am going to use the BrewPi spark to control it.
Now, I want this system to be BASIC. I don't want large control panels, etc, and this is why I wanted to use the BrewPi. All I want is the Spark, a electrical box to house a relay, and the wire from my wall outlet to the element (which will flow through the relay)
If you aren't familiar with the BrewPi, check it out at BrewPi.com - it's currently used for fermentation, but they are actively working on a mashing system. The main thing outstanding is PWM control. At present, the system does have a temperature overshoot algorithm, which has learning capabilities so it is similar to a PID without the PWM capability at present. Please note that the model I am using is the SPARK - the new version, which is described near the bottom of the website.
My main concerns are as follows:
1) I am experienced with plumbing and basic electricity, but some peoples setups are so advanced that I am getting slightly worried that I am out of my depth. I have a 3kw element (LWD) that has a grounding screw. Is this sufficient for grounding the unit?
2) I posted this in a different thread, so apologies - but I wanted to start a thread dedicated to my build. The element slightly touches the edge of the tube. What impact will this have, if any? Do I need to bend it somehow? I am worried that I will break the element, and if it is not becessary I would rather not do it. The element is SS.
3) when splicing in the relay for the element, is neutral better or hot? I was under the impression that hot is the right wire. Can this be confirmed?
4) any safety tips for rims? My house circuits are all RCD (British equivalent of GFCI). I like brewing but I don't want to kill myself doing it!
I am really hoping you guys can help me through this, as I think it will be a really interesting project.
Thanks
I am attempting to move to a RIMS system, and, although it is still in development, I am going to use the BrewPi spark to control it.
Now, I want this system to be BASIC. I don't want large control panels, etc, and this is why I wanted to use the BrewPi. All I want is the Spark, a electrical box to house a relay, and the wire from my wall outlet to the element (which will flow through the relay)
If you aren't familiar with the BrewPi, check it out at BrewPi.com - it's currently used for fermentation, but they are actively working on a mashing system. The main thing outstanding is PWM control. At present, the system does have a temperature overshoot algorithm, which has learning capabilities so it is similar to a PID without the PWM capability at present. Please note that the model I am using is the SPARK - the new version, which is described near the bottom of the website.
My main concerns are as follows:
1) I am experienced with plumbing and basic electricity, but some peoples setups are so advanced that I am getting slightly worried that I am out of my depth. I have a 3kw element (LWD) that has a grounding screw. Is this sufficient for grounding the unit?
2) I posted this in a different thread, so apologies - but I wanted to start a thread dedicated to my build. The element slightly touches the edge of the tube. What impact will this have, if any? Do I need to bend it somehow? I am worried that I will break the element, and if it is not becessary I would rather not do it. The element is SS.
3) when splicing in the relay for the element, is neutral better or hot? I was under the impression that hot is the right wire. Can this be confirmed?
4) any safety tips for rims? My house circuits are all RCD (British equivalent of GFCI). I like brewing but I don't want to kill myself doing it!
I am really hoping you guys can help me through this, as I think it will be a really interesting project.
Thanks