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Tracking the curve of your fermentation is one thing, but controlling it in a fully automated and surgical way is another. With the Fluid Control System (FCS), the Norwegian brand Brewtools is shaking up the brewing world.
This high‑end modular system brings industrial‑level control technology to advanced homebrewers and microbreweries.
Temperature, pressure, gravity: discover how the FCS system works and which configuration is right for your setup.
What is the Brewtools FCS?
The FCS is an intelligent electronic ecosystem that centralises the management of your fermenters (Unitanks or Brite Tanks). Unlike a simple thermostat, the FCS interconnects sensors and actuators through a robust computing architecture (notably using the industrial CAN bus protocol). The system continuously reads data from your beer, logs its history, and autonomously controls your cooling valves, heating elements, or gas‑management solenoids.
Comparison table: FCS Standard (V2) vs FCS One
To meet all needs, Brewtools offers two central architectures for its starter kits:
| Feature | FCS Standard (V2) | FCS One (Light Version) |
|---|---|---|
| Central interface | FCS Display Module 5″ (modern flat colour touchscreen) | Compact housing but slightly bulkier |
| Architecture & Ports | Dedicated and independent FCS I/O module (very high port capacity) | Ports integrated directly into the main unit (but compatible with FCS I/O Module) |
| Expandability | Maximum (expansion ports for future sensors/actuators) | Standard (ideal for fixed and targeted configurations) |
| Connectivity | Native WiFi and Bluetooth for updates and cloud | WiFi (depending on versions and firmware updates) |
Available kit configurations
Because every brewer has different monitoring needs, the FCS comes in several ready‑to‑use kits:
- Temperature & Pressure Kits (Standard V2 or One): The ideal configuration for starting with isobaric fermentation. The system controls your cooling solenoid valve or glycol pump to stabilise temperature. At the same time, thanks to a pressure sensor and a dedicated vent solenoid, it replaces your manual spunding valve by electronically managing the tank’s internal pressure.
- Gravity, Temperature & Pressure Kits (Standard V2 or One): The ultimate fermentation‑tracking setup. In addition to the previous features, this kit includes a high‑precision gravity and temperature sensor (300 mm probe with Tri‑Clamp fitting). You can monitor sugar attenuation and your OG/FG in real time directly on the screen or via the cloud, without ever opening the tank or taking a sample.
Unlimited modularity and customisation
The true strength of the Brewtools FCS lies in its scalable ecosystem. You purchase a starter kit for a specific need, and expand it as your brewery grows. The hardware and software eco‑design allows you to add many modules later on:
- High‑end actuators such as a CAN‑bus‑controlled magnetic‑drive agitator.
- Liquid‑level sensors to automate your tank‑to‑tank transfers.
- Additional relay modules (up to 5A) to safely control powerful 110/230V electric heating elements.
Can the FCS be adapted to multiple fermenters or tanks from other brands?
The FCS operates on a per‑tank control logic. A 5″ display module and its I/O module control one vessel with extreme precision (fine‑tuned step‑by‑step fermentation profiles). If you own several tanks, you can name each screen in the network settings for quick identification.
Although the system is natively designed for Brewtools Unitanks and Brite Tanks, it can absolutely be installed on stainless‑steel fermenters from other brands. Since the sensors and solenoid valves use Tri‑Clamp standards (notably TC34 mm and TC 1.5"), you simply need adapters or Tri‑Clamp tees to cleanly connect the CO₂ purge valve and the pressure sensor to the top of your dome.
Rolling Beers Team Tips
The FCS is an incredibly powerful tool, but safety remains the priority. Even though the system automatically controls the CO₂ solenoid valve to regulate pressure, always make sure to keep the original mechanical safety valve (PRV) installed on your tank. In the event of a prolonged power outage or incorrect software configuration, this mechanical valve remains your last line of defence to protect your tank from accidental over‑pressurisation.
Need help designing your system?