An automated system helps minimize manual intervention yet optimizes a steam flaking process for grains. A calibration technique may be included to assist in auto­matic adjustment of system parameters to account for less than optimal operating conditions. Control may occur from a remote interface, and a user’s computer communicates with an industrial controller such as a PLC through the Internet or a private network. The PLC is typically located at the site where the grain is to be processed. The PLC may receive various system inputs and generate system control outputs in accordance with programs installed on the PLC or through some selected manual intervention as controlled by the user at the remote location.