PWM Digital Speed Controller w/ Fan Heat Test Comparison

In this video I compare the heat generated by a 12V 60A Continuous 100A Max PWM digital speed controller as a stock unit and as mounted inside a waterproof box for use on a kayak. I ran the PWMs for 5 minutes at 25/50/75/100 % of the PWM output and recorded the heat values. I listed the original PWM box build and the testing box videos in this narrative. Those videos have all the parts listed in the narratives. Based on the results of this test, I formed the opinion that there is not a significant difference in the PWM operating temperature between the stock and box units. I will repeat this test (Part 2) in the summer months when the ambient temperature is greater.
* This is not a scientific test *
PWM:
* 3000W 10-50V DC Motor Speed Controller 100A Programable Reversible PWM Control Motor Speed Controller
* • DIY PWM Fan Cooled Box...
* • DIY Kayak Trolling Mot...

[@PainterD54]

I guess I'm not going to worry about mine being in a box with just vents in it until I experience a heat problem. I'd either add a small computer type fan or just get that PWM with the fan already in it.

[@thebear1947]

Hi Aks, I love these vids, very helpful. I'm curious should I mount my pwm with an air gap under the bottom? Also did you happen to repeat this test during the heat of the summer? Someone suggested either net cable? What do you think?

[@Aksmaniyak]

Thanks. I like to have the circuit board elevated above the box base to help with airflow/heat dissipation. I didn't repeat the test because I felt that to be as accurate as possible ( for a garage engineer) I would need to use thermocouple sensors. I think the best test is whether or not the PWM fails.

[@skylarkaerials2633]

Hello, I'm in the UK and wondered if its necessary to have a cooling fan as it will be situated in a watertight box? Seems from the video that it would be unnecessary. Also should the PWM frequency be 15khz or 25khz? Im thinking of the noise level. Thanks for your advice and for taking the time to make these videos!

[@Aksmaniyak]

Thanks! I like the cooling fan model because it has never failed. I'm not sure what the freq is but there is no way that I know of to change it.

[@christopherfrench7313]

Hey just to let you know and to let everyone know that the infrared gun you're using is not reading the temperature inside the box it's reading the temperature on the outside of the surface of the box does not take temperatures through things I don't know if you knew that that's why you were getting the same type of readings

[@Aksmaniyak]

Yes, I realize that and the unscientific test was too see if the heat generated inside the box was great enough to transfer to the outside of the box. My thought was if the box heated up on the outside, then the PWM would be running very hot and heating the air in the box.

[@craiggruenberg9591]

Have you heard any numbers on the failure rate from overheating of these PWM's. I have a $15 one from Walmart (PWM 12V 24V, 60A Reversible Switch) and it worked great all summer. Mine is mounted inside the hull of my Predator PDL where I would think it gets pretty hot, but no problems on 50+ outings May-Oct. Did I see correctly that the PWM with the fan is about $115? Great job on the video. I really appreciate you sharing your tests and information about these PWM's. Thanks much...

[@Aksmaniyak]

Thanks Craig. I don't have any failure rates, just information shared by FB group members. I didn't know Walmart sold PWMs but a 60A continuous reversible is a good choice. The price for the PWM in the video is anywhere from $32 to over $100 depending where you buy it. I wouldn't spend over $75 on an Amazon or Ebay (China) PWM because you can get quality ones around that price. The point of these PWMs is that they are inexpensive and worth the money if you get a good quality one.

[@BassManStrikes]

Craig I got the same on on amazon for 50 dollars building it for winter project 😃

[@bradleyrussell1973]

@@Aksmaniyak where, if not Amazon, can I get this PWM with domestic parts? I can’t find country of origin on the Amazin, $60 one, it looks exactly like the one you are using here. I’d love to find a domestic!

[@Aksmaniyak]

@@bradleyrussell1973 Unfortunately, the only model like this I have found is manufactured in China under many brands.

[@MrBowhunter53]

Hi, Just a quik question. I see you have purchased a few or more of the wireless trolling pro's Have you had any trouble with that company?? I ordered from them in sept. and they won't respond back to me Sure would be interested in your response with any info you might have , Thanks for your video's Ken

[@Aksmaniyak]

Thanks Ken. I actually still have a WTP PWM that still works fine. I haven't spoken with anyone from the company since they temporarily shut down. There must be some type of problem because the owners have always been responsive.

[@tradecode4051]

Isn't 50 degrees way below room temperature? Ie, it's not getting hot at all?

[@ReelTimeCapt]

Your box is acting as a heat sink. If all sealed, and failing in the Summer then find where the power transistors are in the PWM, and mount a large internal heat sink in the case and then mount that to a metal exterior surface.

[@Aksmaniyak]

Thanks but I have not had a failure.

[@jimstockton4922]

I Would be interested to know what wire you used for the remote box with switch and pot thanks

[@Aksmaniyak]

This is what I used for the build. 5426-CL 8 Conductor 22 Gauge Unshielded Cable (4 feet)

[@TiggsTailsFishing]

Does the fan speed increase as the motor speed increases or is the fan speed constant? The reason why I ask is that if it’s hot as hell outside and I’m not running the trolling motor should the fan still be cooling it?

[@Aksmaniyak]

The fan speed remains constant.

[@TiggsTailsFishing]

@@Aksmaniyak Is it always on even when the trolling motor is not?

[@Aksmaniyak]

No, when you turn off the motor the fan stops. A nice feature is that you can leave the motor on in the center switch position and the fan will continue to spin but the motor does not.

[@MrBowhunter53]

OK, Thanks good to know. I appreciate your response. I had to escalate with paypal because WTP wont respond to phone calls or email. If he contracted the virus, at least some one should respond. I don't know, I wouldn't wish that on anyone .Thanks again. Ken

[@Aksmaniyak]

Thanks Ken. If you get a response could you post an update?

[@MrBowhunter53]

@@AksmaniyakYou bet I absolutely will

[@Glennmc7]

How long did the PWM controller last before it failed.

[@Aksmaniyak]

It never failed while I was using it.

[@MrBowhunter53]

Thanks, yeh it's disappointing. I'll just order the parts and build it. Maybe at some point they'll be back Thanks again, Ken

[@Aksmaniyak]

You are welcome Ken. I started a FB page that makes it easier to share info and videos. Here is the link if interested. facebook.com/groups/3521517597860461

[@MrBowhunter53]

Hi, just an update, pay pal closed my case. They are returning my money, I guess they couldn't get a response from them either. Are you aware of any others that build similar units that are wireless? with infinite control? If not I'll just build a wired unit. Thanks for your input if any, Ken

[@Aksmaniyak]

Hi Ken. Sorry the WTP didn't work out for you. The only other wireless I knew of was GAMA. Unfortunately, GAMA no longer recommends their units for trolling motors. Wired may be your only option.

[@tavomotors9814]

Hello good evening greetings from Colombia I have an electric motorcycle that weighs 60 kilos it has a 90v 1000watts 11A dc 4500rpm motor if this 5000w PWM module works for you thank you

[@emmettbowen4431]

So what does your current fishing kayak look like?

[@Aksmaniyak]

The current kayak is the single trolling motor Crescent Shoalie.

[@emmettbowen4431]

@@Aksmaniyak you do so many builds I got lost😆 Love your videos!

[@Aksmaniyak]

@@emmettbowen4431 😆 Thanks Emmett!

[@emmettbowen4431]

@@Aksmaniyak you ever checked no load current of a trolling motor?

[@Aksmaniyak]

@@emmettbowen4431 Yes. No load in air is about 3A.

[@kkf7037]

what engine is it? brush?

[@Aksmaniyak]

Yes, a brushed trolling motor.

[@kkf7037]

@@Aksmaniyak Can this regulator be for brushless motor?

[@kkf7037]

Haswing Protruar 1.0 12V 65lb ?

[@Aksmaniyak]

@@kkf7037 No, only for brushed motor. There are some PWMs made for brushless motors.

[@Aksmaniyak]

@@kkf7037 No, this motor was a Motorguide 30lb.

[@stevec2814]

is this pwm still working if not how long did it last

[@Aksmaniyak]

Yes it is.