Ideal location: Cafe or Coffee Shop

Traditional coffee machines – also known as espresso machines are common amongst the professional coffee makers. The accuracy and perfection of these machines are much better than all other types of coffee machines.

traditional Machine Jargon


Machine Types

There are 3 common types of variations when it comes to machinery.

It could either be semi-automatic, electronic or dual fuel.

SEMI AUTOMATIC

A semi-automatic machine features an automated pump, automated temperature controls for the boiler, and activation switches to engage and disengage the pump.

That’s what makes it “semi-automatic” – you decide when to turn the pump on and off.

Electronic

These feature a pump, automated temperature controls for the boiler, and automated (and frequently programmable) preset water volumes selected by pressing a button.

That’s what makes it “automatic”.

Dual fuel

These feature a combination of either a semi-automatic machine or an electronic machine with a gas option.

Ideal for mobile catering.

Machine Sizes

There are 3 common types of variations when it comes to machinery.

It could either be compact, standard or tall.

Compact

It could either be compact, meaning it’s made as tightly as possible.

Standard

standard giving the extra size to the machine.

Tall

tall, ideal for larger cups fitting under the group heads.

Integral coffee machines

Integral generally refers to an integrated grinder into the coffee machine itself.

Integral

Integral generally refers to an integrated grinder into the coffee machine itself.

Portafilter handles

This is the device coffee is ground into before being placed in the group head to brew an espresso shot.

The name is easy to remember as long as you think of it as a portable filter (hence, portafilter).

It’s also known as a filter handle and “that thingy you put the coffee into”.

Single

It could either be single, meaning it’s got 1 spout for single shots

Double

double giving the extra shot, with a deeper basket through 2 spouts rather than 1

Bottomless/Naked

bottomless/naked, with no spouts, the coffee is dripped directly from the basket boasting a unique dripping effect

Portafilter baskets

This is the device coffee is ground into before being placed in the group to brew espresso.

Single basket

This is a basket that’s inserted into a single portafilter handle.

Double basket

This is a basket that’s inserted into a double portafilter handle.

Triple basket

This is a basket that’s inserted into a triple portafilter handle.

Steam wand / hot water taps

Steam Wand

This is the tool used to steam milk.

The steam wand is also known as a steam pipe, and it is activated by the steam valve knob or lever.

Hot water tap

This is the tool used to dispense hot water.

This is ideal to use for other drinks such as hot chocolate or teas.

Summary of espresso machines

  • Great for cafe’s and coffee shops
  • Best possible coffee quality compared to all other machines
  • Requires a barista – trained coffee making human-being person!
  • We didn’t get too much into brands, quality and other bits, it’s because we want to chat to you, once you know the size and requirements, let us know your budget and aims and we can tailor a package that suits you! Just get in touch.

What are your thoughts?

We love coffee and work hard to always provide the latest and best equipment in the coffee industry. We write these blogs to help others get information on common asked questions.

  • Did we go deep enough into the subject?
  • Was it easy and informative?
  • Did you enjoy reading this blog and did it answer your questions?

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