valveMaster, those are some nice looking valves, but looking at the prices they are upwards of $1k each. I also have an interesting challenge with my valves because they are diaphragm valves and require a vertical-motion actuator instead of a rotary actuator. Lately I have been thinking of...
Not sure if this will be helpful, but I found this on the GitHub page that references implementing a custom thermometer:
https://github.com/Manuel83/craftbeerpi/tree/dev2.2#implementing-a-custom-thermometer-protocol
Did you ever get anywhere with using a stepper motor? I have several sanitary diaphragm valves that I would love to automate, both for ease of actuation and better control of flow rates.
Here's my idea: It seems to me that a custom enclosure could be 3D printed that would attach directly...