The taste properties of coffee depend on many factors - from its variety to the method of preparation. At the same time, ready-made grinding for a drink is not always used, which is why the grains have to be ground on their own. This problem is solved with the help of various devices, the most popular of which is a coffee grinder. There is a wide range of models of this device on the market, including those with an electronic control system. However, a traditional manual coffee grinder has its advantages in terms of uniformity of grinding and the ability to adjust the degree of grinding. In addition, in terms of cost, this is the best offer in the segment.
How does a coffee grinder work?
The principle of operation of such devices is based on manual effort, which activates the movement of the working mechanism through the handle. Grinding is carried out directly by millstones. These are the strongest structural elements,which literally grind coffee beans into powder. The crushed particles fall from the millstone mechanism into a special collection container, which can be built-in or remote (separable). As for adjustment, manual mechanical coffee grinders allow you to change the powder fraction. For example, to brew a drink in a Turk, you will need a dusty base, and a French press works well with large particles. Adjustment systems are stepped and stepless. In the first case, the setting is carried out step by step using the rotary control. The stepless design involves the unwinding of a special screw associated with the handle.
An important place in the device of the unit is occupied by the handle itself. Since even the preparation of 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 top location of the handle. As most reviews show, the first option is more convenient - if only because the base of the structure is more stable during movement. With the upper position of the handle, the body pulls to the side will be more noticeable.
Materials for making millstones
It is very important to choose the right material for the grinding parts. On the one hand, the significance of this parameter is determined by the high requirements for durability, and on the other hand, by the influence on the palatability of coffee powder. What materials are used for millstones? Conditionallythey can be divided into three categories - metal, ceramic and stone.
As for the first group, cast iron is more often used. It is strong, cheap and durable. But it absorbs odors well, so it will have to be washed thoroughly and regularly. And its main drawback is that small metal grains grind off and get into the drink, introducing their own shades of smell.
The best option is considered to be a manual coffee grinder with ceramic millstones, which does not change the taste and aroma of the drink in any way, withstanding thousands of grinding cycles. But this solution also has a downside. With high hardness, ceramic burrs are brittle, so a strong impact when falling can lead to cracks.
Stone millstones are ideal in terms of performance. They do not grind, do not introduce unnecessary odors and remain resistant in a variety of conditions. Is that the high price tag prevents the wide distribution of such models.
Types of coffee grinder body
Usually, cases are divided into three types - Turkish, European and the so-called frameless. Classical Turkish (or Oriental) designs are cylindrical or spherical in 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 body is made in the form of a cube with a side handle. It is for this reason that such structures are more stable during the grinding process. Also the dimensions of this type of manual coffee grindermore - an average of 15 × 15 cm (the volume of a liter pan). Shellless models are a new type of design that is designed to be integrated into a 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 the design with containers of different sizes for collecting the finished powder.
Bekker BK-2517
Bekker is considered one of the best manufacturers of coffee grinders. In this case, a simple and reliable construction of a porcelain body with ceramic millstones is considered. The cost of the model is about 1000 rubles, which makes it popular. As the users themselves note, sharp millstones work efficiently, are not afraid of moisture and small bumps. The capacity for loading grains holds 30 g - by the way, the minimum dose is 5 g. A feature of this manual coffee grinder is the ability to turn the handle both clockwise and counterclockwise. At the same time, the owner can change the distance between the millstones, adjusting them to the optimal degree of grinding.
Mayer&Boch 2316
Another budget coffee grinder model, the cost of which is only 700-800 rubles. The body, 16 cm high, is made of dark natural wood, which is the best option for decorating a stylish business office. The funnel is made of metal with imitation gold plating, and the bean container holds 40 g. With regard to millstones, it should be noted thatthat they are also metal, but not cast iron. As already mentioned, manual coffee grinders with metal burrs can introduce their abrasive particles and odors into the powder composition. But in the case of Mayer & Boch, stainless steel was used, which does not affect the properties of the finished coffee in any way. But this metal also has its drawbacks associated with the appearance of scratches on its shiny surface.
Silampos Stellar
Premium coffee grinder model 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 pre-treatment. The surface is protected from scratches and corrosion. What else makes such an expensive manual coffee grinder stand out? Reviews point to the advantages of a collapsible mechanism and generally ergonomic control mechanisms. The block for grains has a dense metal curtain, and the grinding mechanism allows you to fine-tune the grinding level with high accuracy. After completing the working steps, all elements of the coffee grinder can be immersed in the dishwasher.
TimA SL-008
This option may be of interest to connoisseurs of antiques and retro style. The design of the structure is made with a classic design, and the technical execution 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. The ceramic itself preserves the natural taste and aroma of the drink. The remaining structural elements are made ofcombinations of metal and wood.
Kornkraft Mulino
An option 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. The grinding elements leave no waste, are self-sharpening and self-centering. At the same time, the user retains the possibility of adjusting the grinding for subsequent filling of the filter container. The working force on a manual coffee grinder with stone burrs 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 you to fill the 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 terms of control characteristics and speed of operation, this is one of the best options for a mechanical coffee grinder. The design advantages of the Kornkraft Mulino design also stand out. The body is made of natural beech with a unique beeswax impregnation.
Conclusion
It would seem that in the age of digital technology, traditional hand-held units should naturally become a thing of the past, regardless of their purpose. Moreover, today it is not a problem to find an apparatus for grinding and brewing coffee with electronic control for little money. Therefore, we can conclude that mechanical models do not compete in terms of ergonomics and functionality. For example, the bestmanual coffee grinders from the above manufacturers are appreciated by those users who care about the brewing process itself. Not just press the button, but directly participate in it, feeling how the basis for the future drink is obtained from whole grains. But that's not all. Manual designs of coffee grinders have always stood out due to their aesthetic characteristics. If electrical models are mainly made of plastics, rubber-insulated wires and aluminum, then mechanical counterparts are formed by natural materials and precious metals. Accordingly, you can count on decorating a kitchen or hotel interior with an elegant coffee grinder body.
