12v Solar Pumps

[Bignorrs]

Morning Brewfiends, I'm starting to put together an electric brewery with 38.5 litre thermopot mash tun and a 50 litre Brew Kettle, I'll be brewing 5 gallon batches with this.
I've ordered a couple of the 12volt solar pumps to push the wort/liquor around, has anyone any ideas on how to power these pumps? I'd thought of maybe using a 12 volt transformer, the type that's used for low voltage lighting, not sure how suitable they are though.
Any thoughts or advice would be great... :wha:

 

[joe1002]

Yep, a 12v transformer is what you need. Have a read here: http://www.thehomebrewforum.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=30&t=33508&hilit=Solar+Asda&start=20

 

[nobyipa]

i use this cheap and variable

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/360605936062


[youtube:3jviha91]JY_IVnfXyHc[/youtube:3jviha91]
:thumb:

 

[evanvine]

I use these with great success!

 

[Good Ed]

you can also use a variable voltage adapter from Asda, about £8, you can adjust between 1.5v and 12v in about 6 settings

 

[hairybiker]

I use a combo of bits from ebay. A 12V 2A switch mode psu (about £2-3) and an led dimmer (<£3).
Gives complete control over the flow rate.

This has been discussed many times on here, I am of the belief (as an ex-electronics engineer) that pwm (pulse width modulation) is better for the pump than dropping the voltage it is supplied with. Pwm gives a constant 12V but the time it is on is controlled allowing the pump to work at max efficiency all the time.

 

[evanvine]

I always run mine at full speed, but use a by-pass valve!
This does involve a little plumbing, but gives infinite control.

 

[london_lhr]

This has been discussed many times on here, I am of the belief (as an ex-electronics engineer) that pwm (pulse width modulation) is better for the pump than dropping the voltage it is supplied with. Pwm gives a constant 12V but the time it is on is controlled allowing the pump to work at max efficiency all the time.

I agree with this wholeheartedly :thumb:
This is the one I use and it works a treat.
I use these controllers for controlling a DC fan on my UDS smoker with a PID, controlling the DC fan on my DIY stir plate and for controlling the 24VDC mag drive pumps.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/New-10A-DC-12 ... 5d397f7afa

Barry.

 

[evanvine]

Everybody thinks their own method is best, I find no fault with that!
Nor do I find fault with re-discussing subjects.

 

[joe1002]

Jim, can you post a picture of your bypass valve please?

 

[robsan77]

you now have exactly the same set up as me, except ive only one pump. I use a tattoo gun transformer. Works great!

 

[evanvine]

Jim, can you post a picture of your bypass valve please?

Will do, but it won't be till the morning now!

 

[joe1002]

Jim, can you post a picture of your bypass valve please?

Will do, but it won't be till the morning now!

No problem, thanks :thumb:

 

[evanvine]

On 2nd thoughts, I'd best do it while I think of it!



Works for both HERMS and Sparge!

 

[joe1002]

Thanks, very much appreciated :thumb:

I think I'll have a go at one of those.

 

[Paultakespics]

Where does everyone get the barbs to screw onto the pump? This threads proving useful as mine finally turned up today so need to figure the connections now

 

[nobyipa]

Where does everyone get the barbs to screw onto the pump? This threads proving useful as mine finally turned up today so need to figure the connections now

1/2" BSP Garden Hose Tap Connectors

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Draper-Expert ... 5401c95298

 

[Good Ed]

Where does everyone get the barbs to screw onto the pump? This threads proving useful as mine finally turned up today so need to figure the connections now

I paid a visit to my local plumbers merchant with the pump and they sorted me with these which fit nicely with some of vossy's hose

 

[evanvine]

Nobyipa is spot on, but they don't need to be brass/gunmetal, plastic is just as good but cheaper.
I've had mine made (for a favour)!

 

[rpt]

But is it food safe plastic suitable for hot wort?