Overview 

This article will explain how to activate and use the First Crack Prediction.

First Crack occurs when expanding beans release a burst of evaporating moisture. Roasting expert Rob Hoos notes this allows heat to penetrate the bean, triggering vital chemical reactions. Research shows this phase, alongside coloration, is the primary driver of aroma and flavor development.

Why use the First Crack Prediction?

Cropster’s AI-powered First Crack Prediction streamlines your roasting process for new coffees, saving time and resources while achieving your target profile in fewer batches. This tool helps you anticipate the first crack event with precision, ensuring greater consistency across every roast.

How does the First Crack Prediction work?

Roasting Intelligence displays a First Crack Prediction window three minutes in advance. This lead time allows you to make proactive adjustments and avoid disruptive gas or airflow changes as the event approaches. According to Scott Rao, there should be no gas changes about 40-45 seconds before the first crack, and also no airflow adjustments 2 minutes before the first crack.

Instructions

Activating Smart Predictions

1. Log in to the Roasting Intelligence.
2. Navigate to thePreferences.
3. Select the Roasting tab and Smart features. 
4. Activate the First Crack Prediction by clicking on the corresponding checkbox.
   

   

5. Click on Save to confirm the changes.

 If you have further questions, feedback, or concerns, please submit a support ticket directly from support.cropster.com.