Here's some pics of my "semi-automated" brewing system...

Some info.....

Basically a HERMS system.... with custom GUI to monitor the process and provide input values for the controller.

Key Features:

*Batch-Sparge system.
*Hot-Liquor tank is temperature controlled and designed to start heating water at a time specified by the user.
*Solenoid valve on HLT that uses feedback from liquid level sensor to control opening/closing of valve.
*Temperature controlled mash tun via. recirculation loop through HLT to pick up heat and maintain mash temperature set by user.
*March 809 pump for recirculation.
*Buzzer notifies user of next process and waits for push-button to confirm (safety mechanism)

Future Upgrades:

*Peristaltic pump will replace March Pump.... Peristaltics are self-priming = closer to full automation.
*Pinch-valve or actuated ball valve will replace mash tun solenoid valve.... Grain bits got stuck in solenoid seat, causing it to stay open.
*Add a boiling and cooling stage to go from grain to fermenter using full automation.

If you need anymore info, just let me know!

Later,

Justin

Click on a picture to enlarge.