Posted Sat Sep 5, 2009, 11:30pm Subject: Re: Adding LEDs to my Isomac - Electrical help?
One minor glitch - the screw I used to mount the transformer sits at the level of the top cover for the enclosure, so the cover does not seat exactly how it should. It still screws down, and does not affect the cup warming tray that sits atop that cover. If I were to do it again, I might not use that screw, but mount the transformer with some self-adhesive foam or velcro. Of course, on a machine other than the Relax, there will likely be other mounting issues... :)
Dana Leighton - Espresso hack and CoffeeGeek moderator
Or maybe use a tie wrap? or the screw in a different spot?
Could be a problem there from the heat in terms of adhesives. I've done several things with adhesive back velcro - where they have less heat than would likely be in your machine - the adhesive stays too liquid and doesn't hold. Might hold with something else, though.
Thanks a bunch for posting this thread - I'm already planning how to do the deed on my Vivaldi II.
Posted Sun Sep 6, 2009, 1:05pm Subject: Re: Adding LEDs to my Isomac - Electrical help?
Looks good Dana. I'm thinking my Lyra would look good with some LEDs now. I'm investigating a grouphead thermometer so maybe when I pull her apart I'll do it all at once.
I like the size, thickness, angle, etc. - beam angle of 140 degrees
1.378 inch square unit - .1378 thick
I'm not sure of the actual specs of the IKEA, but I'm thinking I can use 6 of the above, particularly if they are thin enough to use on the inside = it'll be close, but I think doable
Note: using these units will involve some soldering and heat shrink tape, but I have that on hand. They don't specify the size wire that they are using but I'm thinking I can use some CAT5e strands for hookup.
ETA - this transformer will likely need to be installed outside the machine due to temperature service rating - same with Cat5 strands - the insulation is PVC that is not certified above 60C
Posted Mon Sep 7, 2009, 9:08pm Subject: Re: Adding LEDs to my Isomac - Electrical help?
Please keep in mind that the insulation on wiring in and out of the transformer, and possibly the transformer itself, is rated for only 60C (about 140F). My first instinct upon reading this thread is that worries about moisture are probably overly cautious, but the possibility of the insulation melting and having bare wire touch the chassis could be a concern.
Posted Mon Sep 7, 2009, 9:19pm Subject: Re: Adding LEDs to my Isomac - Electrical help?
davethebrewguy Said:
Please keep in mind that the insulation on wiring in and out of the transformer, and possibly the transformer itself, is rated for only 60C (about 140F). My first instinct upon reading this thread is that worries about moisture are probably overly cautious, but the possibility of the insulation melting and having bare wire touch the chassis could be a concern.
Good point, Dave. The air temperature measured with a probe at the top of the cabinet where the transformer is mounted is 152F. I'll have to reconsider the fiberglass sheath. I'll disconnect the power until then.
PS: How did you know about the temperature rating of the wires? Is it a standardized rating?
OK thanks for the heads up.
Dana.
Dana Leighton - Espresso hack and CoffeeGeek moderator
Posted Mon Sep 7, 2009, 9:47pm Subject: Re: Adding LEDs to my Isomac - Electrical help?
ex-electrician See if you can read any markings on the cable, 60C is pretty standard but there are cables with higher ratings, I would expect that this lighting system was designed for use in a "room temperature" environment and it is unlikely that the manufacturer would spend anything extra for high-temp wire, OTOH I've been wrong before so see if you can find the rating.
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