I agree - for mash and fridge, the supplied are the ducks nutz! I am a little concerned about HLT use though for longer periods of time. I plan to use my HLT as a temp controlled system in the preserving of fruit also, which would mean long periods of exposure to near boiling water - thats where my concern is coming from
Hi guys, apart from the 'ol frozen coke or milk bottles, is there a more up-to-date method of temp control, maybe in the form of a thermostat or something along those lines?
I've read the idea of using a Aquarium thermo but wasnt sure if this was the only tried & tested method.
Looking for something relatively cheap at this stage, if not then I'll just stick to the coke bottle method for now!
I've bought Omron E5CS temperature controllers off ebay for as little as $36. They are simple to use like the Dixell on the interface-ie. don't need complex programming, just set the temp and go. Given they don't have a 10amp relay (usually a 3A relay, if you need more you will need to wire a second relay rated for 10amps) and you need a thermocouple ($12 @ Jaycar) but they still come in pretty cheap.
Other options involve getting ones that power a solid state relay. You can buy the SSR relays for about $22+postage.
Well, I haven't had extensive use of the Jaycar ones yet so can't speak to their quality. Initially they seem ok. I've been using the SS probe ones but it's only early days here at the moment with these controllers and thermocouples.
I did look into buying thermocouple extension wire but I think it's a little bit costly (because you have to buy a fair bit of it eg 10m roll). Have a look at RS Components and see what they have, I know they have some options (I think it's www.rscomponents.com.au or maybe www.rsaustralia.com.au or something, maybe try google if they don't work).
I was thinking about buying some extensions and connectors so I could plug in and unplug my controllers to the thermocouple for storage. I think I'll just make the thermowells on the vessels easy enough to remove the thermocouple for storage rather than buy the connectors and extension now.
I'm keen on getting two of the Dixell Temp controllers! Is there any one else out there interested in putting togeather another bulk buy? I'm sure if we could get a few more takers another order would be viable. Don't know what the minimum order would be but the two I am interested in will be a start.
Neither of these two are very cheap, they're the sort of company that supplies other companies the stuff they need right now, at whatever cost.
But their range is good.
Farnell is usually the cheaper/better of the two, but their website sucks.
RS is sometimes cheaper, their website is easier to navigate thru the catalogue.
this might help a few guys who are after thermocouples. I've bought from this place before. They'll make anything you like in any dimension and sensor type you like.
:chug:
Hi guys
Helios at Underwood in Brisbane make temp probes and heating elements in 316 Stainless to your own requirements.
I had a K type probe and an element made. the probe cost $75.00 and it is extremely accurate 07 3341 5222.
Cheers Altstart
I appreciate the effort you go to in getting these units. It is a true sign of commitment to your hobby when you go out of your way to help others for no reward, other than the gratitude of those you have helped!! Thanks mate. :beerbang:
If jagerbrau is up for one we are half way there!
Any other takers?