The UniFlex integrates directly into the BruControl ecosphere, allowing those looking for a continuous upgrade path in their brewery to begin their journey without needing any DIY (do-it-yourself) skills!

UniFlex Overview Video

UniFlex Controller Feature List:

• Ultimate flexibility: 240VAC / 50A brewery controller running BruControl
• Advanced controls: ESP32 based interface with Wi-Fi communications
• Integration ease: compact size, free of limited and dedicated hardware controls allows mounting anywhere
• High quality components: for example, Crydom SSR’s exclusively used
• Dual vessel simultaneous heating (BK, HLT, RIMs, etc.)
• Dual pump/accessory control
• Flexible configuration:
  • Standard (duty cycle) or variable (proportional) SSR heating control
  • Choice of power/plugs: NEMA 14-50P, 6-50P, or 10-50P
  • 1-wire universal temperature probes, shielded, waterproof, 10 feet – up to 10 simultaneous probes
  • Integrated user I/O: 17 I/O: 12 high current outputs, 1 analog output, and 4 inputs (digital or 12-bit analog) with external power connector
  • DIN rail mount
  • BruControl host application, requires ‘Advanced’ license
• The first and only modular & upgradeable design:
  • Upgrade to integrated I/O
  • Upgrade to DIN rail mount
  • Add temperature probes as needed
• Safety integration: positive high voltage output electrical interlocks
• Full BruControl implementation:
  • Device Elements including PID, Hysteresis, Deadband, Digital Outputs & Inputs, PWM/Analog Outputs, Counters, etc.
  • Elements including Timers, Alarms, Graphs, Profiles, etc.
  • Workspaces to create fully customizable digital interface (includes two pre-created configurations)
  • Scripts to automate any or all of the brewing process including basics such start timing, step mashing, sparging, boil-over prevention, variables manipulation, conditional controls, data exchange, profiles, etc.
  • BruControl ‘Advanced’ License provides unlimited expansion to control the brewery: fermentation, dispensing, cleaning, etc.

UniFlex Controller Specifications:

• Power Supply Requirements
  • Single power feed version: 240VAC, 50A via 4-conductor NEMA 14-50R receptacle (includes ground and neutral)
  • Dual power feed versions: 240VAC, 50A via 3-conductor NEMA 10-50R, 6-50R (no neutrals), or 10-50R receptacle (no neutrals) and 120VAC, 5A via NEMA 5-15R receptacle
  • Must be protected by 50A dual pole GFCI circuit (panel or inline breaker)
• Power Input
  • Single power feed version: NEMA 14-50P plug
  • Dual power feed version: NEMA 14-50P, 6-50P, or 10-50P plug and NEMA 5-15P plug
  • 2m (6′ / 72 inches) power cord length(s) included
• Vessel Power Output(s)
  • 240 VAC, 25 amps maximum (5500W heater) per output
  • Dual vessel, 2x NEMA L6-30R receptacles on 230 mm (9 inch) pigtails
  • Circuit breakers integrated in controller for each output
• Pump / Accessory Power Output(s)
  • 120VAC, 5 amps total, via NEMA 5-15R receptacle(s) on 230 mm (9 inch) pigtail(s)
  • Circuit breaker integrated in controller
  • Dual receptacle is included
• Enclosure
  • Aluminum, with internal venting fan (not splash proof)
  • Front panel includes Wi-Fi antenna, temperature probe receptacle(s), I/O connector, I/O power, power switch
  • Rear panel includes pass-through connectors for power and pump/accessory wires and circuit breaker
  • Rubber feet on bottom (DIN rail mounting kit optional)
  • Mounting: horizontal or vertical (power cords down)
  • Dimensions 320 x 190 x 150 mm (12.6 x 7.5 x 5.9 inches) LxWxH, excluding wires
• Universal Temperature Probe(s)
  • 100 mm (4 inch) length, 6 mm (1/4 inch) diameter probe, with 3 m (10′ / 120 inches) cord and right angle plug
  • Universal probe design, allows for brewery integration via compression fittings (not included)
  • Probes are waterproof (can be submerged) and use shielded cable for noise reduction
  • 1-wire technology, allows for up to 10 probes simultaneously plugged in (requires separate adapter, not included)
  • 2 probes included with controller
  • Additional Universal Temperature Probes available here.
• BruControl Interface
  • ESP32 based microcontroller with Wi-Fi and external antenna.
  • Firmware software upgradeable over-the-air
• Solid State Relayd
  • Standard (binary) SSRs for duty-cycle type modulated control
  • Proportional SSRs for step-less modulated control (optional)
• Power Switch
  • Latching illuminated circular switch on front panel
  • Interlock design ensures vessel Power Outputs are disconnected from mains power
• Integrated User Input/Outputs (optional)
  • 17 total I/O
  • 12 high current outputs (max limits: 12 amps total, 5 amps per bank, 2 amps per output)
  • 4 inputs (digital or 12-bit analog)
  • I2C bus pins
  • Internal 12VDC power available, up to 1 amp maximum
  • Front panel connector for I/O and external power (12 or 24 VDC)

UniFlex Controller Downloads:

• Read the UniFlex Product Note for details, setup, and operation.
• Download the UniFlex Image files.
• Download UniFlex Configuration files.

NOTE: 30A UniFlex Controller Shown Here

The Universal Temperature Probe is a stainless probe which allows for system integration via compression fittings (not included). The probe is 100 mm (4 inch) long with a diameter of 6 mm (1/4 inch). Its cord length is 3 m (10′ / 120 inches) and has a right angle 3.5 mm plug on the end for easy plug & play into interfaces and the UniFlex Brewing Control System. The probe is waterproof (can be submerged) and uses uses shielded cable for noise reduction.

Probe with 1-wire technology: allows for up to 10 probes simultaneously plugged in. This is the probe for the UniFlex Brewing Control System.

The UniFlex integrates directly into the BruControl ecosphere, allowing those looking for a continuous upgrade path in their brewery to begin their journey without needing any DIY (do-it-yourself) skills!

UniFlex Overview Video

UniFlex Controller Feature List:

• Ultimate flexibility: 240VAC / 30A brewery controller running BruControl
• Advanced controls: ESP32 based interface with Wi-Fi communications
• Integration ease: compact size, free of limited and dedicated hardware controls allows mounting anywhere
• High quality components: for example, Crydom SSR’s exclusively used
• Flexible configuration:
  • Single or dual vessel heating (BK, HLT, RIMs, etc.)
  • Single or dual pump/accessory control
  • Standard (duty cycle) or variable (proportional) SSR heating control
  • Passive (external heat-sink) or active (internally fan-cooled)
  • Choice of power/plugs: NEMA 14-30P, 6-30P, or 10-30P
  • 1-wire universal temperature probes, shielded, waterproof, 10 feet – up to 10 simultaneous probes
  • Integrated user I/O: 17 I/O: 12 high current outputs, 1 analog output, and 4 inputs (digital or 12-bit analog) with external power connector
  • DIN rail mount
  • BruControl host application, requires ‘Advanced’ license
• The first and only modular & upgradeable design:
  • Upgrade single to dual vessel
  • Upgrade single to dual pump/accessory
  • Upgrade to integrated I/O
  • Upgrade to DIN rail mount
  • Add temperature probes as needed
• Safety integration: positive high voltage output electrical interlocks
• Full BruControl implementation:
  • Device Elements including PID, Hysteresis, Deadband, Digital Outputs & Inputs, PWM/Analog Outputs, Counters, etc.
  • Elements including Timers, Alarms, Graphs, Profiles, etc.
  • Workspaces to create fully customizable digital interface (includes two pre-created configurations)
  • Scripts to automate any or all of the brewing process including basics such start timing, step mashing, sparging, boil-over prevention, variables manipulation, conditional controls, data exchange, profiles, etc.
  • BruControl ‘Advanced’ License provides unlimited expansion to control the brewery: fermentation, dispensing, cleaning, etc.

UniFlex Controller Specifications:

• Power Supply Requirements
  • Single power feed version: 240VAC, 30A via 4-conductor NEMA 14-30R receptacle (includes ground and neutral)
  • Dual power feed versions: 240VAC, 30A via 3-conductor NEMA 14-30R, 6-30R, L6-30R, or 10-30R receptacle (no neutrals) and 120VAC, 5A via NEMA 5-15R receptacle
  • Must be protected by 30A dual pole GFCI circuit (panel or inline breaker)
• Power Input
  • Single power feed version: NEMA 14-30P plug
  • Dual power feed version: NEMA 14-30P, 6-30P, L6-30P, or 10-30P plug and NEMA 5-15P plug
  • 2m (6′ / 72 inches) power cord length(s) included
• Vessel Power Output(s)
  • 240 VAC, 25 amps maximum (5500W heater) per output
  • Single vessel: 1x NEMA L6-30R receptacles on 230 mm (9 inch) pigtail
  • Dual vessel (optional): 2x NEMA L6-30R receptacles on 230 mm (9 inch) pigtails
• Pump / Accessory Power Output(s)
  • 120VAC, 5 amps total, via NEMA 5-15R receptacle(s) on 230 mm (9 inch) pigtail(s)
  • Circuit breaker integrated in controller
  • Single receptacle is included, dual receptacle is optional
• Enclosure
  • Aluminum, with internal venting fan (not splash proof)
  • Front panel includes Wi-Fi antenna, temperature probe receptacle(s), I/O connector, I/O power, power switch
  • Rear panel includes pass-through connectors for power and pump/accessory wires and circuit breaker
  • Rubber feet on bottom (DIN rail mounting kit optional)
  • Mounting: horizontal or vertical (power cords down)
  • Dimensions 290 x 170 x 100 mm (11.4 x 6.7 x 3.9 inches) LxWxH, excluding wires
• Universal Temperature Probe(s)
  • 100 mm (4 inch) length, 6 mm (1/4 inch) diameter probe, with 3 m (10′ / 120 inches) cord and right angle plug
  • Universal probe design, allows for brewery integration via compression fittings (not included)
  • Probes are waterproof (can be submerged) and use shielded cable for noise reduction
  • 1-wire technology, allows for up to 10 probes simultaneously plugged in (requires separate adapter, not included)
  • 1 probe included with single vessel controller, 2 probes with dual vessel controller
  • Additional Universal Temperature Probes available here.
• BruControl Interface
  • ESP32 based microcontroller with Wi-Fi and external antenna.
  • Firmware software upgradeable over-the-air
• Solid State Relay
  • Standard (binary) SSR for duty-cycle type modulated control
  • Proportional SSR for step-less modulated control (optional)
• SSR cooling configurations (both include an internal venting fan for electronics)
  • External: passive heat sink (required for proportional SSR)
  • Internal (optional): no heat sink (active fan cooled)
• Power Switch
  • Latching illuminated circular switch on front panel
  • Interlock design ensures vessel Power Outputs are disconnected from mains power
• Integrated User Input/Outputs (optional)
  • 17 total I/O
  • 12 high current outputs (max limits: 12 amps total, 5 amps per bank, 2 amps per output)
  • 4 inputs (digital or 12-bit analog)
  • 1 analog output (0 – 5VDC)
  • I2C bus pins
  • Internal 12VDC power available, up to 1 amp maximum
  • Front panel connector for I/O and external power (12 or 24 VDC)

UniFlex Controller Downloads:

• Read the UniFlex Product Note for details, setup, and operation.
• Download the UniFlex Image files.
• Download UniFlex Configuration files.

This interface assembly comes with the most current firmware installed and is tested for connectivity.

Note: unlike the UniShield interface assemblies, this assembly does not have output drivers. It breaks out the native interface pins to screw terminals for ease of wiring, but current and voltage on these pins must remain within limits of the MEGA 2560.

The UniShield simplifies the integration of a BruControl interface as it includes multiple functions in one: microcontroller , screw shield, DC power supply, high-current output drivers, user configuration, and DIN rail mount.

This is a shield for the ESP32 Development Board format interface. It is a stacked design, containing a base board for I/O and a riser board for the interface. The ESP32 Development board (included) plugs on top of the riser board and can easily be replaced. The riser and base boards are connected by ribbon cable for efficient packaging. It contains an on-board 3-amp DC:DC power supply (DDPS) to reduce the need for multiple power supplies in the control panel. The DDPS can be powered with 12 or 24 VDC and its output is adjustable from 3 to 12 VDC. It’s output can be switched to either supply the interface via its 5V pin or supply the interface with 3.3V directly (thereby bypassing the interface’s 5 V regulator), or to supply an on-board terminal, creating a discrete DC:DC converter which can be used for other devices such as flow-meters, RTD-amplifiers, etc.

The base board contains 24 high-current outputs (20 are usable with the ESP32) which are split into two banks, enabling each bank to be powered by different sources (e.g. 5, 12, 24 VDC). The current outputs limits are: 3 amps per output, 6 amps per driver (4 outputs each), 15 amps per bank (2 banks). This will eliminate the need for electro-mechanical relays to switch low-current DC. Therefore, contactors, valves, relays, DC pumps can be powered directly. This should reduce panel space and simplify wiring, reducing panel size and overall cost. PWM functions at up to 1000 Hz, enabling a DC pump without any additional hardware. The output drivers are fault tolerant – for example, will not be damaged by an accidental short-circuit.

Each I/O terminal set includes a high-current driver output and a “direct” pin, allowing for devices to be connected directly to the interface pin. Fly-back diodes are included on driver outputs to damp inductive loads such as solenoids and relays to reduce potential electrical noise. Output drivers are enabled by default, but switches are included for each to disable them.

The UniShield includes on-board pull-up resistors for I2C and 1-wire, so external devices such as 1-wire temperature sensors can be easily wired. It contains screw terminals for each I/O point, and also contains terminals for other wiring functions including power, analog inputs, grounds, etc. The unit is housed in a DIN carrier for simplified and universal mounting.

The UniShield comes assembled and tested with an ESP32 interface and pre-loaded firmware. Versions include internal (on-board) or external antenna. External antenna versions include a panel-mount antenna and connecting cable.

Read the UE-1 Product Note for more details, configuration, and installation. Also, here is a Close Look overview video:

The UniShield simplifies the integration of a BruControl interface as it includes multiple functions in one: microcontroller, screw shield, DC power supply, high-current output drivers, user configuration, and DIN rail mount.

This is a MEGA format interface shield, which accommodates interfaces such as the Arduino MEGA, AdaFruit Grand Central, other compatible MEGA format interface microcontrollers. It is a stacked design, containing a base board for I/O and a riser board for the interface. These are connected by ribbon cable, allowing for native shields to be used on top. It also contains an on-board 3 amp DC:DC buck converter power supply to reduce the need for multiple power supplies on the control panel. The buck converter can be powered with 12 or 24 VDC and its output is adjustable from 3 to 12 VDC. It’s output can be switched to either supply the interface via its VIN pin (for example 6 – 9 VDC), supply the 5V pin directly (thereby bypassing the interface’s 5 V regulator to prevent an overheating regulator), or to supply an on-board terminal, creating a discrete DC:DC converter which can be used for other devices such as flow-meters, RTD-amplifiers, etc.

The base board contains 48 high-current outputs which are split into four banks, enabling each bank to be powered by different sources (e.g. 5, 12, 24 VDC). The current outputs limits are: 2.5 amps per output, 6 amps per driver (4 outputs each), 12 amps per bank (4 banks). This will eliminate the need for electro-mechanical relays to switch low-current DC. Therefore, contactors, valves, relays, DC pumps can be powered directly. This should reduce panel space and simplify wiring, reducing panel size and overall cost. PWM functions at up to 1000 Hz, enabling a DC pump without any additional hardware. The output drivers are fault tolerant – for example, will not be damaged by an accidental short-circuit.

Each I/O terminal set includes a high-current driver output and a “direct” pin, allowing for digital inputs. Fly-back diodes are included on driver outputs to damp inductive loads such as solenoids and relays, and reduce potential electrical noise. Drivers are enabled by default, but switches are included for all driver outputs to disable them.

The UniShield includes on-board pull-up resistors for I2C and 1-wire, so external devices such as 1-wire temperature sensors can be wired directly. It contains screw terminals for each I/O point, and also contains terminals for other wiring functions including power, analog inputs, SPI, I2C, AREF, grounds, and includes an extra reset button. The unit includes a DIN carrier for universal mounting.

The UniShield includes either an Arduino MEGA-2560 compatible interface or an AdaFruit Grand Central M4 (depending on the model), and has the current-version firmware loaded. Ethernet or Wi-Fi shields are also available options.

Read the UM-1 Product Note for more details, configuration, and installation. Please note that the Arduino MEGA interface is 5V compatible and the Grand Central is 3.3V compatible. These voltage compatibilities need to be taken into consideration during control panel design for any input pins (not applicable to high-current driver output pins).

All valves are full-port 1/2″ NPT, with SS304 body construction and teflon seals, and are IP67 rated (wash-down capable). All valves have a position indicator an manual adjustment knob. Valves are 24VDC power (12 VDC are available on request). Three versions are available:

Proportional Valve – 2-way valve which will open to a percentage  proportional to an analog input voltage across the range 0 – 5 VDC. The valve has an LCD readout for opened angle and setup. The ball valve is slotted to create linearized flow across the range. The valve is wired via 4 signals: Power (24 VDC), Ground, Control Signal (0-5 VDC), and feedback signal (optional, 4-20 mA). Valve can be driven directly from the BruControl Analog Amplifer. Download the specification sheet/manual: BruControl KLD20T Proportional Valve.

2-way Valve – 2-way valve which will open or close fully depending the input signal. The valve is wired via 3 signals: Open (24 VDC), Close (24 VDC), Ground. The valve is appropriately directed via an SPDT relay or using two outputs on the BruControl UniShield and digital output “Dual-Throw” mode. Download the specification sheet/manual: BruControl KLD20S 2-Way Valve.

3-way Valve – 3-way valve which will assume left or right positions fully, depending the input signal. The flow path is in ‘L’ port configuration. This means it will connect the central port to either the left or right port, but not both or neither. The valve is wired via 3 wires: Open (24 VDC), Close (24 VDC), Ground. The valve is appropriately directed via an SPDT relay or using two outputs on the BruControl UniShield and digital output “Dual-Throw” mode. Download the specification sheet/manual: BruControl KLD20S 3-Way Valve.

The sensors measure liquid column above the sensor. The 50 millibar version (PSF-20-5) can measure approximately 18 in. / 455 mm above the sensor. The 100 millibar version (PSF-20-10) can measure approximately 36 in. / 910 mm above the sensor.  The volume which is measured is dependent on the vessel diameter. To calculate the volume and calibrate the sensor, use the Sensor Calibration Tool.

Specifications:
Pressure:
– Model PSF-20-5: 0 – 20 in. H₂O / 0-50 mbar
– Model PSF-20-10: 0 – 40 in. H₂O / 0-100 mbar
Output: 0 – 5 VDC (analog, proportional to pressure range)
Maximum pressure: 200% full scale
Accuracy: +/- 0.5% full scale
Power: 12 – 30 VDC
Mount: 1.5″ Tri-Clamp (1.984 in. / 50.4 mm)
Media temperature: -40 – 255°F / -40 – 125 °C
Stability: <0.2% FS / year
Protection: IP65
Construction: 304 SS
Height: 4 1/4 in. / 105 mm

Note: The diaphragm is very sensitive to impact or contact/pressure above 2x rated. This will damage the sensor. Do not use in applications where it cannot be handled or protected from such contact or impact.

Downloads:
Read the PDF Volume Sensor Product Note for additional details and wiring.

The heaters are welded in a 1.5″ tri-clamp cap so the element will mount in the 1.5″ tri-clamp RIMs tube of your choice (16″ – 18″ long recommended). The heaters are 15/32″ diameter (12 mm) and are 15″ long (380 mm) from the inside of the cap. Each heater has an individual supply (power + ground) to provide for wiring flexibility. The tri-clamp cap includes a stainless cover, and the wire bundle is covered by a PVC jacket. The wires are 10 feet (3 m) long.

All four wire bundles can be connected to their power sources at the end of their run, or alternatively, a 10 AWG, 3-wire cable can be run to the cover and the wires all terminated inside it.

All four heaters can be powered together (recommended), or individual elements powered to accommodate a specific application. For example, one element can be used for mashing while the others are separately turned on for strike water heating, mashout, and direct heat fly-sparging.

The QuadZilla comes with 3 baffles which may be installed by the user to create more turbulence in a RIMS tube, which will aid in heating during low flow periods, such as direct heat fly-sparging. The element can be easily removed for cleaning, though this should be needed infrequently due to the low heat density of the heaters. The entire assembly is made of 304 SS. Note: This element can theoretically heat water from freezing to 170 degrees F (76 C) sparge temperature at 1 quart per minute (1 lpm) rate. Room temperature 68 degrees Fahrenheit can be heated to sparge temperature at approximately 1.4 quarts per minute.

Please note the assembly does not include tri-clamp gaskets, clamps, or any other accessories other than the baffles. No element “enclosure” is required. It is strongly recommended that the RIMs tube be oriented vertically for proper performance during mashing and direct heat fly-sparge heating.

A BruControl system offers a great deal of flexibility and expansion options for system builders. To achieve these goals of different control systems, BruControl is available in three different versions.

• Basic: Connects one interface by serial (USB) only.
• Advanced: Connects to one or more interfaces by network (Ethernet or Wi-Fi) or serial (USB).
• Professional: Advanced plus Data Exchange service (ability to communicate with external network devices.

Upgrades are available, so you may pick the license you believe best suits your needs, then upgrade later without additional cost beyond the license difference.

BruControl is a licensed application and may be installed on one computer at a time. License activation and ongoing verification requires internet access.

We are confident you will find BruControl to meet your needs and help you build an incredible control system for your Brewery or other application. However, if you are not satisfied, we will refund you within 30 days of purchase. Contact Us with any questions or concerns!

Please note: Once purchased, it may take up to 12 hours for the license to become authorized. You will receive an email when ready. At that time, you can activate the license in BruControl. Prior to that, you may install and use BruControl without interface communication.