I want to build a Pid, need help!

[Side by Side]

I want to build a Pid, can someone supply me with a parts list. This will be my first one and I don't want to make a costly mistake. I have an RCBS Pro I'll be using it with. I did a search and most of the links to parts purchase no longer exist. Thanks!

[HATCH]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/MYPIN-Dual-Digital-F-C-PID-Temperature-Controller-TA4-SNR-K-thermocouple-/291520963962?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item43e000e57a
http://www.ebay.com/itm/3m-Stainless-Steel-Probe-K-type-Sensors-High-Temperature-Thermocouple-10ft-/331177851754?hash=item4d1bbcfb6a
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Solid-State-Relay-Module-SSR-25DA-25A-250V-3-32V-DC-Input-24-380VAC-Output-NEW-/221532661317?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3394602645

you don't have to buy from those links but that will give you a idea what to buy.
You will still need a enclosure.

[RegisG]

I bought different PID but wish I would have gotten the MYPIN because there seems to be more information (in English) about it.
You will also need a heat sink for the SSR. I went with a 40a because there seemed to be more feedback here about them out lasting 25's and really wasn't much, if any difference in price. My biggest problem was finding suitable box.
Lots of wiring diagrams here.
Good luck
Regis

[Walter Laich]

Yep, boxes seem to be the biggest problem which, when you think about it, isn't that big after all.
.
I got the switches, fuse holder and fuses (that's an entire discussion there: whether to use them or not) terminals and wire connectors from All Electric though Radio Shack does carry some of that stuff.
.
I've been known to throw together a wooden enclosure to house all of it.

[Yodogsandman]

Here's the quick disconnect for the thermocouple probe to mount on the panel box.

http://www.auberins.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=7_43&products_id=427

[Leadmelter]

i have been thinking about taking the leap into the PID world. Your list of items on ebay is very helpful. The solid state relay is used for what?
I am not electically inclined. Since this stuff is coming from China,should order 2 probes and 2 relays in case of defects?
Thanks again

Leadmelter
MI

[bhn22]

The relay is the switch that controls the flow of electricity to the pot. The PID itself reads the input from the thermocouple, and turns the relay off and on as needed to attain the preset temperature.

[Smoke4320]

^^^^
So I wonder how many pin heads could dance on the head of a greek

[Yodogsandman]

Here's a US source for the SSR and heat sink...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Solid-State-Relay-SSR-40DA-25A-250V-W-I-O-3-32VDC-24-380VAC-Heat-Sink-US-LC-/161770917450?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item25aa4c4e4a

Terminal connector block...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/6-Position-600V-15A-Double-Row-Wire-Barrier-Block-Screw-Terminal-Strip-Panel-/371212888644?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item566e032a44

Lighted toggle switch...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2pcs-Rocker-Switch-SPST-3Pin-15A-250V-20A-125VAC-ON-OFF-with-Lamp-Snap-In-/181521427778?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2a43852d42

Fuse holders...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/5pcs-6x30mm-15A-Panel-Mount-Screw-Cap-Fuse-Holder-Case-for-Glass-Tube-Fuses-/281467496339?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4188c52793

Panel mount receptacles...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/10-Pcs-US-3-Pins-Power-Socket-Plug-Black-AC-125V-15A-MH/221708383065?_trksid=p2047675.c100011.m1850&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%2 6asc%3D20140602152332%26meid%3Db496e91316ea40dfa30 33eb7bf959df2%26pid%3D100011%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D10%2 6sd%3D121689974462

Type K thermocouple probe...
http://www.ebay.com/itm/3m-High-Temperature-100-1250-Degree-Thermocouple-K-type-100mm-Probe-Sensors-OV-/301333037049?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4628d93ff9

[rbertalotto]

Wrote a whole article about it on my web page...... www.rvbprecision.com

Hope it helps

[Leadmelter]

Stuff is in the mail. I figure for under $40, if helps production even 10% it is worth the investment.
since I bought this rig, how do you convert it to monitor mold temp?

Leadmelter
MI

[Mike W1]

Stuff is in the mail. I figure for under $40, if helps production even 10% it is worth the investment.
since I bought this rig, how do you convert it to monitor mold temp?

Leadmelter
MI

Did it to one of my moulds but can't actually say it's a real big help with casting. Didn't figure it would be but was curious as to what a hot mould actually measured. Drill a hole in the mould for the TC to go in and drill & tap a hole for a set screw to hold the TC in place. Think they usually are done from the front but with my setup it was more convenient to have my TC go into the side of the mould. Another reason it's handy to have that plug/panel on the front of your PID closure. Can't remember for sure either used a 6x32 or 8x24 set screw, which size is not critical
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u310/Mike4245/TC-%20Mould%20-Holder_zpsfodpslsl.jpg

[Beagle333]

I would definitely get more than one Thermocouple (probe). I started buying them by the 6-pack. :roll:

(but I use them for several purposes and they don't seem to like heavy usage and moving around a lot.)

[popper]

After a couple years use I think my hi temp probe insulation is about to give out. Indicated temp went to 1000F+. Wiggled the probe and it went back to normal. They are cheap so get a couple. It still works down around 400F & of course 100F.
edit: for casting pot, only fiberglass or better insulation is rated to 900F. Others are ~600F rated.

[edctexas]

You might try Aubergine Web site. They are higher but even sell boxes. Their PIDS have English instructions. Mount the SSR to the box as a heatsink. Just sand any paint off with fine sandpaper. I used thermal compound between the SSR and the box. Buy the connectors for the TC.

ED C

[Zaneiel]

Ok I'm going to say it ... here it comes ... What's a PID? thanks in advance :)

[Mike W1]

Had a little time to kill so here's some links to places that have K type connector panels. And BTW last time I ordered something from Auber's for a measly $1 they installed the male plug on it. Well worth that!!!
Sources for K type thermocouple panel connectors

http://www.auberins.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=7_43&products_id=119

http://www.tcdirect.com/deptprod.asp?deptid=280/5

http://www.omega.com/pptst/MPJ.html

http://jconninv.com/accessories.shtml

http://www.newark.com/newport-electronics/rmj-k-r-n/panel-jack-type-k-miniature-connector/dp/29C5176

http://www.zonzen.com/html-en/directory-uNpAhKSidczk-----Thermocouple-Connector.html

http://www.automationdirect.com/adc/Search/Search?searchquery=thermocouple%20connector%20pane l&
cmd=Search&fctype=adc.falcon.search.SearchFormCtrl&TxnNumber=-1

Last 2 links don't look like they'll work for small orders!

[JonB_in_Glencoe]

Ok I'm going to say it ... here it comes ... What's a PID? thanks in advance :)
Short answer:
a temperature controller for your electric lead furnace, that is more accurate than the stock controls.

Long answer:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PID_controller

[retread]

Here is a detailed video I found quite useful.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PDlfU2_Anps

[Mike W1]

Here's a US source for the SSR and heat sink...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Solid-State-Relay-SSR-40DA-25A-250V-W-I-O-3-32VDC-24-380VAC-Heat-Sink-US-LC-/161770917450?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item25aa4c4e4a

Terminal connector block...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/6-Position-600V-15A-Double-Row-Wire-Barrier-Block-Screw-Terminal-Strip-Panel-/371212888644?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item566e032a44

Lighted toggle switch...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2pcs-Rocker-Switch-SPST-3Pin-15A-250V-20A-125VAC-ON-OFF-with-Lamp-Snap-In-/181521427778?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2a43852d42

Fuse holders...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/5pcs-6x30mm-15A-Panel-Mount-Screw-Cap-Fuse-Holder-Case-for-Glass-Tube-Fuses-/281467496339?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4188c52793

Panel mount receptacles...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/10-Pcs-US-3-Pins-Power-Socket-Plug-Black-AC-125V-15A-MH/221708383065?_trksid=p2047675.c100011.m1850&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%2 6asc%3D20140602152332%26meid%3Db496e91316ea40dfa30 33eb7bf959df2%26pid%3D100011%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D10%2 6sd%3D121689974462

Type K thermocouple probe...
http://www.ebay.com/itm/3m-High-Temperature-100-1250-Degree-Thermocouple-K-type-100mm-Probe-Sensors-OV-/301333037049?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4628d93ff9

I would suggest that the above listed panel mount receptacle is not designed for K type TC's. It MIGHT work OK and it might not. There's a number of places you can buy minature K type panel jacks that are correct for the project and a little shopping probably won't cost much if any more than getting an incorrect item.

[Handloader109]

Hatch's list is the minimum, plus as he said, some sort of enclosure. If metal enclosure, ignore the heat sink, as the ssr relay doesn't heat up much at all. It is nice to have plug for power and one for thermocouple in order to disconnect, but not necessary, along with terminal block and fuses are just an added expense. But I am cheap......

[Yodogsandman]

I would suggest that the above listed panel mount receptacle is not designed for K type TC's. It MIGHT work OK and it might not. There's a number of places you can buy minature K type panel jacks that are correct for the project and a little shopping probably won't cost much if any more than getting an incorrect item.

Mike W1, Thanks for clearing that up with the explanation for the OP. The receptacles were supposed to be used to plug the pot into for power.

I prefer the Auberins round panel mount jack for the TC probe, listed separately above. They have both round and square panel mounting jacks, using a drill to use the round jack was just easier for me.

[N21911S]

Should the thermocouple be mounted in the pot? If so, a picture of the mounting would be appreciated.

Tks, Bill

[Leadmelter]

Okay I bought all the stuff from China
1. There is no power plug to the PID.
2. What is the best way to mount near your pot? When I ordered the unit, I expecting a VCR size unit.
3. I get the probe for lead pot to all attach to the switch, when is does the switch connect to the PID unit? Am I missing a cable?
4. How do I connect my RCBS Promelt to the unit and what do I do with the control on the unit? Crank it up?
Inquiring minds need help for the electrically challenged ??
Leadmelter
MI

[Mike W1]

Should the thermocouple be mounted in the pot? If so, a picture of the mounting would be appreciated.

Tks, Bill

Most guys just bend a piece of wire or some flat stock aluminum like I did. It's moveable to another piece of gear that way. Some do permanent mount also but I'm no help there. Generally you keep the tip about 1/2" from both the side and the bottom of the pot. That's my mould warming shelf on this pix too.
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u310/Mike4245/007_zps5fca2944.jpg+

[JonB_in_Glencoe]

Okay I bought all the stuff from China
1. There is no power plug to the PID.
2. What is the best way to mount near your pot? When I ordered the unit, I expecting a VCR size unit.
3. I get the probe for lead pot to all attach to the switch, when is does the switch connect to the PID unit? Am I missing a cable?
4. How do I connect my RCBS Promelt to the unit and what do I do with the control on the unit? Crank it up?
Inquiring minds need help for the electrically challenged ??
Leadmelter
MI

Lots of questions...
There are several electrical diagrams scattered throught this forum. That's where I'd recommend you start, most of your questions will be answered by the correct diagram.

Here is a good one, is your PID the same model ?
http://castboolits.gunloads.com/showthread.php?181319-Pid-Controller-Schematic


I put the finished unit on a shelf above my Lead furnace
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu127/JonB_in_Glencoe/PID_zps030316e8.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/JonB_in_Glencoe/media/PID_zps030316e8.jpg.html)

I used a spring mount, like a standard thermometer uses, so it's portable, also I can place the probe near the bottom pour spout, right where I want it.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu127/JonB_in_Glencoe/PID%20TC_zpsnqfmln4y.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/JonB_in_Glencoe/media/PID%20TC_zpsnqfmln4y.jpg.html)

[Leadmelter]

Okay I watched the you tube and looked at the diagrams of the wiring. I think this is going to be a January project to track down all the pieces.
If one of you more talented gentlemen would like to finish for me, I will gladly send you my parts.
PM me
Leadmelter
MI

[10x]

Lots of questions...
There are several electrical diagrams scattered throught this forum. That's where I'd recommend you start, most of your questions will be answered by the correct diagram.

Here is a good one, is your PID the same model ?
http://castboolits.gunloads.com/showthread.php?181319-Pid-Controller-Schematic


I put the finished unit on a shelf above my Lead furnace
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu127/JonB_in_Glencoe/PID_zps030316e8.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/JonB_in_Glencoe/media/PID_zps030316e8.jpg.html)

I used a spring mount, like a standard thermometer uses, so it's portable, also I can place the probe near the bottom pour spout, right where I want it.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu127/JonB_in_Glencoe/PID%20TC_zpsnqfmln4y.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/JonB_in_Glencoe/media/PID%20TC_zpsnqfmln4y.jpg.html)

I would put a cake pan or cookie sheet under that set up....

[Leadmelter]

After taking some time to study the schematic and notes, it does not look that hard. I found an electric supply store not to far from the house. I have the list of parts and the schematic and plan on visiting there next week.
Thanks for all info!
Leadmelter
MI

[Mike W1]

PID's aren't necessary for sure but at the very least they're entertaining. I started building a closure today and am picking up small parts for another one. Already have a Auber's PID and a Rex C100 so this one will be a Mypin just so I can compare them. Like gadgets I guess and the wiring is pretty simple. Mine all have terminal connectors that are crimped and soldered so thus far nary a hiccup. From what I have found on the web the Mypin's seem to have to poorest documentation. Am curious to see what the "paperwork" will look like on this one. And I actually have a purpose in mind that will let me use 3 units at a time, though I don't really NEED them. It's just making my hobby a little more fun.

[popper]

Use the heat sink on all SSRs, with HS grease! They work better and last longer when it's temp is below 70C, about 25C above ambient temp. Internal max temp rating is 125C on good ones, 80C on commercial.

[P Flados]

Been thinking abut this for a while.

Saw a post over at http://castboolits.gunloads.com/showthread.php?285805-pid-for-lee-4-20-110v-pot

With a little help from RobS, this looked like an easy way to get all the right parts from a single Ebay order.

I took the bait & will give it a try. Need to go look through my junk and find a box.

The above was posted 8/20/15. The package was good & came fast. More details over at the other thread. PF 8/26/15