Don't Stop! 15 Things About Machine Espresso We're Sick Of Hearing
Don't Stop! 15 Things About Machine Espresso We're Sick Of Hearing
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How Does Machine Espresso Work?
The machine espresso uses precise pressure and filtering system that is awe-inspiring to create the coffee you enjoy. How exactly does it work?
In order to make espresso hot water is pushed under pressure through finely ground coffee. The process is similar to making drip coffee, but the major difference is in the pressure.
The Head of the Group
The group head is the portafilter you place in the espresso maker when making it. It disperses water into the portafilter, and controls the pressure of the extraction. There are numerous kinds of group heads, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Some are focused on temperature stability, whereas others on pre-infusion capabilities, and still others are designed to control the lever. Some are a combination, such as the E61. This is a preferred choice for baristas since it provides multiple benefits in a single package.
As you can see from the above photo, the group head is fitted with a variety of notches. It is possible to place your portafilter into these notches and twist the head to secure it. A gasket of rubber is situated inside the notches, which helps create a seal as you insert your portafilter. The notches on the head permit a precise positioning of the portafilter which is crucial for an efficient extraction.
The group head is not just able to allow you to place your portafilter easily however, it also keeps the temperature at a constant level. It does this by cycling hot water through the brew container and around the portafilter, making sure that it's always at the correct temperature for extraction. It is crucial to keep in mind that even a few degree variation can mean the difference between a great and a great espresso.
The Pump
Unlike manual piston machines, that use a lever to pressurize water, rotary espresso machines rely on motorized pumps to supply the nine atmospheric bars of pressure required for espresso extraction. This pressure is built up by pumping water through a heat exchanger and then through the ground coffee.
Pumps are generally less expensive than piston-driven machines, and they tend to last longer. However, both types of machines can be damaged by excessive use and inadequate cleaning. Pumps are also more complex mechanically, which can increase the cost of even the simplest models.
Some espresso machines make use of steam pressure instead of a pump for brewing espresso. This can lead to over-extraction as the boiler that produces steam also causes the water to boil. The machines also need to continuously rebuild their pressure between cups. This requires energy and time.
Many espresso machines use either a vibration or read more rotary pump. A vibration model employs an oscillating disk to create pressure, while the Rotary model pushes hot coffee through the ground at a rapid speed. Both types of machine can make a great espresso, but Rotary machines are quieter and more durable than vibration pumps.
The Boiler
The boiler is what is used to heat the water to the perfect temperature for extraction. The steam that is produced reaches the portafilter containing the ground espresso coffee, and is then pumped into the cup. During this process the steam is able to create enough pressure to push the grounds of the coffee through. This results in a crema on top of the espresso. This is the hallmark of a great espresso.
There are three types of espresso makers, which differ in the type of pump they use and the degree of heat that the espresso is. There are many ways to control the brew as well as the size of cup that can be produced by the machine.
The first espresso machines were steam-type. They utilized one boiler to make both steam and brew, however the pressure they were able to produce was very low - just two bars of atmospheric pressure maximum. This led to the coffee tasting burnt and bitter. The modern espresso machine was developed by the Milanese makers Luigi Bezzerra & Desiderio Pavoni.
The most popular espresso maker is a semiautomatic machine that has an electric pump. When people think of espresso machines, they picture these machines. If you have a semi-automatic machine you must grind the beans and then tamp them by hand, but the pump is able to regulate the flow of water and pressure. This is an excellent compromise between human touch and mechanized quality.
The Filter
Typically, espresso machines utilize filters that separate the grounds of coffee when they pass through the hot water. The filter is also an important part of the temperature control system as it keeps the machine from overheating.
Filters also aid in flavor since it allows for a longer flowering period. This allows the beans to release their nuances and gives the chance for better extraction.
It is important to keep in mind that even the best filter can produce a bad cup of coffee. The quality of the beans, and the extraction, remain vital.
It's here that the magic takes place. This is what makes espresso taste so good. The grouphead (also called the brewhead) is where you put the portafilter, the thingy used to place the grounds of coffee into when making espresso.
In a steam-driven espresso machine hot water is heated in an airtight tank to create steam. This is then pushed through the grounds under high pressure. These types of machines are usually less expensive and simpler to maintain than pump-driven models. However, they are limited in their ability to provide the ideal brewing conditions, because they operate at 1-1.5 bars of pressure. While the perfect shot requires 9-10 bar.
In recent times, espresso machines powered by a compressed air pump have become increasingly popular. They use an air compressor to push hot water through the ground and are much more mobile than steam-driven electric espresso machines.