I aplogize in advance if this is the wrong place for this. I'd like to use the Arduino to shut off a 220v outlet per low voltage switch triggers. Each switch will be connected to blast gates on a dust collection system. Open switch, vacuum power on, closed switch, vacuum power off. Is this even possible with an Arduino?
How could you possibly think that a forum category, the description of which says
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Your topic has been moved to the Project Guidance category of the forum
You could use a multi relay board...
Thank you.
Have a great day!
If you are in the U.S., 220V is usually "split phase" and you need to switch both phases on & off together. That means a double-pole relay or two relays.
In any case it never hurts to switch both connections. Just don't switch the safety-ground!
Relays with low-voltage coils are common. 12V is probably the most common. A relay is an electrically-controlled, electrically-isolated switch so you may not need an Arduino at all!
If you have a double-throw relay, it has normally-open and normally closed contacts. So for example, with the normally-closed contacts you could switch the 220V on when 12V goes off, etc.
Double-pole, double-throw relays (DPDT) are super common. They have 6 contacts (a pair of double throw contacts). Of course, you don't have to use them all.
This is the correct part of the forum for the question.
Where will you place the proposed device to switch off the outlet? How will you protect the 220 volt wiring from touching something that may cause fire?
The idea here is to turn on the 220v dust collector when a blast gate is opened. There was a system like this available that is plugged into the 220v outlet directly and the collector plugs into that, but I've not been able to find it so thought to replicate the idea. That system used simple open/close switches. Prob 5v.
How much current / wattage does the vacuum require?
How many switches? How far is the Arduino from the switches and vacuum? Are the switches low voltage (3.3 or 5V DC) or 220VAC?
Switches are low voltage. Prob 5v. Vac is 230 V and 13 amps. I havent designed the system yet but figure 5 stations so 5 switches.
OK 220 VAC for dust collectors. Since I have no clue what your dust collector (Blast Gate) motors draw for current I suggest you just find a SSR (Solid State Relay) suited for the current and voltage of each motor. I also have no idea what a "blast gate" is? I also have no idea why you are using an Arduino or any uC simply to turn things On/Off? Maybe you could explain your whole project in some detail?
Ron
I may not need a controller at all. A blast gate cuts off the flow of air (suction) at a juncture, in this case a woodworking tool. When the gate is open, the vacuum should turn on. If all gates are closed, the vacuum is off. There's only the single motor on the vacuum itself that matters.
My brother has such a system. Has a remote control clamped to his shirt. Push button, push off. Manually opens/closes the various gates depending on the machine being used.
OK now I know what a blast gate is. I would note the blast gate current and still use a suitable SSR as I mentioned earlier. A SSR will give you low voltage control for your On/Off and afford isolation.
Ron
Ive seen those. That's my last resort. This other way is very slick. You open the gate to the tool you want to use. Close it when youre done. A company called Long Ranger made this but I cant find it. They must have discontinued producing it.
I'll search around for SSR
Make it at least 40 Amp rated, those things get HOT carrying that current, I would buy an accessory heat sink with it. How many switches? Which Arduino (or other "compatible" board) do you have in mind?
I was thinking the Uno only because it's handy but now I'm getting away from using on at. I don't want to over think the project.
Then why are you involving an Arduino for a simple power supply and switches project?
Thought it'd fun.