Airhead v1.0.1

An easy to build and install upgrade for any original Air Still (or clone) using code ported from the boiler management routines in my RPi Smart Still controller system.

The original Still Spirits Air Still and its various clones use what is referred to as a "Bang Bang" temperature control system where the heating element runs at full power until its minimum operating temperature is reached and then shuts off completely. Once the temperature falls to a certain point, the heating element is turned back on to full power again.

The Airhead controller uses Pulse Width Modulation to run either an SCR board or solid state relay to pulse the heating element at varying durations so it never has a chance to cool down. This results in more stable temperature control and prevents suspended solids from falling to the bottom to scorch.

The Airhead controller also introduces three new operating modes. (1) constant power, (2) constant temperature, and (3) timed run with starting and ending temperatures. All settings are user configurable and are restored every time the unit is turned back on.

Build your own or purchase an assembled and tested kit from Panhandle Ponics R&D

Project start date: October 22, 2024
First official release: December 7, 2024