13 Things You Should Know About Machine Espresso That You Might Not Know
13 Things You Should Know About Machine Espresso That You Might Not Know
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How Does Machine Espresso Work?
Machine espresso utilizes precise pressure and amazing filter technology to make the delicious coffee we enjoy. But how exactly does it work?
Espresso is made by pushing hot water under high pressure through finely ground coffee. The process is similar to making drip coffee but the key difference is in the pressure.
The Head of the Group
The group head is the portafilter that is inserted when you are making espresso. It distributes water into the portafilter and regulates the pressure of extraction. There are a variety of types of group head, each with their distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some are focused on temperature stability, whereas others on pre-infusion features, and others are designed to control the lever. Some include a combination such as the E61. This is a very popular choice for baristas due to the fact that it has multiple advantages in a single package.
As you can see in the above photo, the group head has several notches where you place your portafilter and twist it with your hands to lock it in. There is also a gasket made of rubber in the notches and helps to create an airtight seal when you insert your portafilter into the machine. The notches allow for precise placement of the portafilter. This is crucial for an accurate extraction.
Apart from allowing you easily place your portafilter in, the group head is also responsible for maintaining an even temperature. It does this by cycling hot water through the brew container and around the portafilter, ensuring that it's always at the right temperature to extract. It is crucial to keep in mind that even a tiny differences can make the distinction between a good and a great espresso.
The Pump
Unlike manual piston machines, which rely on a lever that pressurize water, rotary espresso machines rely on motorized pumps to supply the nine atmospheric bars of pressure required for espresso extraction. This pressure is generated by pumping water through a heat-exchanger and then through the ground coffee.
Pumps are generally less expensive and last longer than piston-driven machines. However, both types of machines are susceptible to degrading due to overuse and inadequate cleaning. They also increase the complexity of mechanical systems, which can result in the cost of even the simplest models.
Certain espresso machines do away with the pump entirely and make use of steam pressure to make espresso. The drawback of this is that the same boiler that produces steam also raises the temperature of the water to the point of boiling which could lead to excessive extraction. In addition these machines typically have to rebuild their pressure between cups, which requires time and energy.
Many espresso machines utilize the rotary or vibration pump, which has a vibration model that uses a vibrating disc to create pressure, and a rotary model pushing hot water through the grounds under high speed. Both machines produce great espresso, however rotary machines are quieter, more durable and less likely to break down.
The Boiler
The boiler is the part which heats the water to the optimal temperature to extract. The steam created gets to the portafilter which is a container for espresso grounds. It is then poured into the cup. The steam causes pressure to push through the coffee grounds. This produces a layer of crema that is then poured over. This is a sign of a great espresso.
There are three kinds of espresso machines, each with distinct pumps and the temperature of the brew. coffee and espresso machine There are different ways in which the brew could be controlled as well as the size of the cup the machine can make.
The first espresso machines were steam-based. The earliest espresso machines were steam types. This led to the coffee tasting bitter and burnt. This is the reason why Milanese producers Luigi Bezzerra and Desiderio Pavoni created the modern espresso machine.
The most well-known espresso machine is a semiautomatic that has an electric pump. These are the images people have when they think of an espresso maker. Semi-automatic machines require you to grind and tamp the beans yourself however the pump controls the water flow and pressure. This is a great compromise between the human touch and mechanized quality.
The Filter
Typically, espresso machines utilize filters that separate the coffee grounds as they pass through the hot water. The filter is also an essential element of the machine's temperature control, as it helps prevent overheating.
It also enhances flavor, since a filter allows for a longer bloom time. This helps the beans to release their flavor and gives the chance for better extraction.
However, it is important to keep in mind that even a good filter can produce a bad cup of coffee, since the quality of the beans and extraction is important.
This is where the magic happens, it's the thing that makes an espresso really taste good. The grouphead, often referred to as the brew head, is the place where the portafilter (the device you put the ground coffee in) is located when you're making espresso.
Steam-driven espresso machines make use of hot water that is heated in an airtight vessel to create steam. The steam then pushes hot water into the grounds of coffee under high pressure. These machines are cheaper and are easier for the user to maintain than pumps-driven models. They are however limited in their ability to create the ideal conditions for brewing as they only operate with 1-1.5 bar of pressure. The perfect shot requires 9-10 bars.
In recent years, espresso machines powered by a compressed air pump have become increasingly popular. They make use of an air compressor to push hot water through the ground, and are more mobile than steam-driven electric espresso machines.