eBrew Trouble (SSR)

[thirdeye]

So I've almost completed my brewtroller, and when powering it on for the first time, my SSR (60A 320VAC) seemed to fail. When using my multimeter the load on both sides of the SSR were identical (123v) regardless of whether the SSR was triggered (light on). I powered down and checked the resistance across the two load terminals and I got open. Anybody encounter this?

[AllanMar]

Were these voltage measurements with a load connected to the SSR? no-load SSR voltage readings tend to be useless.

I'm interested to hear about your build, first I've heard of someone else on here using a brewtroller (i've got a build in progress with one).

[thirdeye]

Heh a little research reminds me that SSRs control amperage not volts, ie voltage measurements are useless unless it's under load, thanks for the reminder AllanMar. As for the brewtroller, mine is currently a frankentroller, no fancy electronics, yet.

[AllanMar]

No Problem.
Little confused, are you planning to use a brewtroller (oscsys.com), or did you just mean "brewtroller" in the generic term?

[thirdeye]

Eventually I'd like to use an arduino or RaspberryPi to control the entire brew process, but want to get the electrical fundamentals before going any further.

[mr x]

You need a wigwag to check ssrs.

[AllanMar]

I've never heard them called that before. I've heard them referred to as solenoid testers, they usually vibrate right?

If your concerned about checking before hooking up your element (and playing with water) I'd use an incandescent light.

[mr x]

I've heard them called many things, mine doesn't vibrate, but some do. They rely on current to drive the solenoid. They are useful on SSR's where most electronic meters are not. This is because ssr's usually have enough leakage current to read on a meter, but that current is not enough to drive the solenoid. Light would probably work as well, or a fan, etc....something that draws current.