Topic: Potential optimization (in testing)
Our PID controllers have an option for "alarm". This is a function designed to trigger a relay, built into our units, when some programmed condition has occurred.
I decided to use this to run my motor. I've set my "HIAL" setting to 155 in the settings. That's all I had to change, and I set my temperature to 156C. The motor is connected between pins 11 and 12 of the PID controller, instead of running through the switch. Now, whenever my temperature climbs above 155C, the motor will automatically turn on. This has allowed me to run switchless, using only the power cord to turn the entire unit on and off. This will also save our butts if the heater band or relay fails and the temperature falls, while it's running overnight. The motor will shut off and prevent damage.
Thoughts, ideas? I don't want to take pictures yet, it's a little fugly on the wiring...