The taste properties of coffee depend on many factors - from its variety to the method of preparation. At the same time, a ready grinding for a drink is not always used, because of which the grains have to be crushed independently. This problem is being solved with the help of various devices, the most popular of which is a coffee grinder. A wide range of models of this device is presented on the market, including with an electronic control system. However, a traditional manual coffee grinder gives its advantages, expressed in the uniformity of grinding and the ability to adjust the degree of grinding. Moreover, in terms of cost, this is the most advantageous offer in the segment.
How is the coffee grinder arranged?
The principle of operation of such devices is based on manual force, which activates the movement of the working mechanism through the handle. Millstone directly carry out grinding . These are the most durable structural elements that literally wash coffee beans into powder. The crushed particles fall from the millstone into a special collection container, which can be built-in or remote (detachable). As for the adjustment, manual mechanical coffee grinders allow you to change the fraction of the powder. For example, to make a drink in a Turk, you will need a dusty base, and the French press works well with large particles. Adjustment systems are stepwise and stepless. In the first case, the adjustment is carried out step by step using the rotary knob. The stepless design involves the unwinding of a special screw connected to the handle.
An important place in the device of the unit is occupied by the handle itself. Since even preparing a small mass of powder for one cup will require at least 5-10 minutes, the ergonomics of the device should be considered. According to the implementation of the working body, manual coffee grinders are divided into models with a side and upper handle position. As most reviews show, the first option is more convenient, if only because the design base is more stable during movement. With the upper arrangement of the handle, the withdrawal of the case to the side will be more noticeable.
Millstone materials
It is very important to choose the right material for grinding parts. On the one hand, the importance of this parameter is determined by high requirements for durability, and on the other hand, the influence on the taste of coffee powder. What materials are used for millstones? Conventionally, they can be divided into three categories - metal, ceramics and stone.
As for the first group, cast iron is more often used. It is strong, cheap and durable. But it absorbs smells well, so it will have to be thoroughly and regularly washed. And its main drawback is that small metal grains grind and fall into the drink, introducing their own shades of smell.
The best option is a manual coffee grinder with ceramic millstones, which does not change the taste and aromatic properties of the drink, withstanding thousands of grinding cycles. But this solution also has a minus. With high hardness, ceramic millstones are brittle, so a strong impact when dropped can lead to cracks.
Stone millstones from the point of view of operational properties and completely ideal. They do not grind, do not introduce unnecessary odors and remain resistant in a variety of conditions. Is that a high price tag prevents the widespread dissemination of such models.
Types of grinder housing
Typically, the housing is divided into three types - Turkish, European and the so-called open case. Classical Turkish (or Oriental) designs have a cylindrical or spherical shape. Moreover, the diameter is small - 5-7 cm. The funnel is closed, and the handle in this case is located just in the upper part. The European case is made in the form of a cube with a side handle. For this reason, such designs are more stable during the grinding process. Also, the size of a manual coffee grinder of this type is larger - an average of 15 × 15 cm (volume of a liter pan). Chassis models represent a new type of design that is designed to be integrated into the French press platform. The lower part of the coffee grinder is implemented as a multi-stage pyramid, thanks to which it is possible to combine designs with different-sized containers for collecting the finished powder.
Bekker BK-2517
Bekker is considered one of the best coffee grinder manufacturers. In this case, we consider a simple and reliable design of a porcelain case with ceramic millstones. The cost of the model is about 1000 rubles, which determines its popularity. As users themselves note, sharp millstones work efficiently, are not afraid of moisture and small strokes. The grain loading capacity holds 30 g - by the way, the minimum dose is 5 g. A feature of this manual coffee grinder is the ability to twist the handle clockwise and counterclockwise. In this case, the owner can change the distance between the millstones, adjusting them to the optimal degree of grinding.
Mayer & Boch 2316
Another budget model of a coffee grinder, the cost of which is only 700-800 rubles. The case with a height of 16 cm is made of natural wood in dark color, which is the best option for decorating a stylish office. The funnel is made of gold-plated metal and the grain container holds 40 g. In relation to millstones, it should be noted that they are also metal, but not cast iron. As already mentioned, manual coffee grinders with metal millstones can add their abrasive particles and odors to the powder composition. But in the case of Mayer & Boch, stainless steel was used, which does not affect the properties of the finished coffee. But this metal also has its drawbacks associated with the appearance of scratches on its shiny surface.
Silampos stellar
Premium model of a coffee grinder, available on the market for 9-10 thousand rubles. The height of the structure is 18 cm, while the case is also made of stainless steel, but with more serious preliminary processing. The surface is protected against scratches and corrosion. What else stands out so expensive manual coffee grinder? Reviews indicate the benefits of a collapsible mechanism and generally ergonomic control mechanisms. The grain block has a dense metal shutter, and the grinding mechanism allows you to fine-tune the grinding level. After completing the work steps, all the elements of the coffee grinder can be loaded into the dishwasher.
TimA SL-008
This option may interest lovers of antiques and retro style. The design design is made with a classic design, and the technical design is guided by modern principles of mechanical optimization. Like all manual ceramic coffee grinders, this model has a small weight, which, however, does not reduce the grinding performance. Ceramics themselves preserve the natural taste and aroma of the drink. The remaining structural elements are made of a combination of metal and wood.
Kornkraft mulino
The option is not just for coffee connoisseurs, but for real collectors and experimenters in preparing a gourmet drink. A distinctive feature of the model is the presence of stone millstones with a unique shape and arrangement system. Grinding elements do not leave waste, self-sharpen and self-center. At the same time, the user is still able to regulate grinding for the subsequent filling of the filter container. The working effort on a manual coffee grinder with stone millstones of this brand is through a ball-bearing mechanism that facilitates the rotation of the wooden handle. Moreover, the loading block holds 100 g of grains, allowing filling a massive collection tray with a margin in one pass. According to the manufacturer’s calculations, the productivity is 30-100 g / min. That is, in the control characteristics, and in the speed of work - this is one of the best options for a mechanical coffee grinder. The design advantages of the Kornkraft Mulino design stand out. The case is made of natural beech with a unique impregnation based on beeswax.
Conclusion
It would seem that in the age of digital technology, traditional hand-held units should naturally go into the past, regardless of their purpose. Moreover, today finding a machine for grinding and brewing coffee with electronic control for little money is not a problem. Therefore, we can conclude that mechanical models do not compete in ergonomic and functional characteristics. For example, the best manual coffee grinders from the manufacturers presented above are appreciated by those users for whom the cooking process itself is important. Do not just press the button, but participate directly in it, feeling how the whole grains form the basis for the future drink. But that is not all. Manual coffee grinder designs have always stood out due to aesthetic characteristics. While electrical models are predominantly made of plastics, insulated with rubber wires and aluminum, mechanical analogs are formed by natural materials and precious metals. Accordingly, you can count on decorating the kitchen or hotel interior with the elegant body of a coffee grinder.