The art of brewing coffee relies on the equipment and its capabilities, and the right semi-automatic coffee machine depends on the operation, volume and menu.
Given their ease of use, a number of foodservice operators continue to turn to semi-automatic coffee makers.
While fully automatic coffee machines include preset functionality to accommodate different beverage types, semi-automatic coffee machines provide fewer presets and hand the user more control for customization.
Also called two-step units, semi-automatics automate production, but the addition and steaming of milk occurs manually. As a result, with this unit type, operators will need to know how to properly steam milk, but the more complicated dynamic of grinding the beans and adjusting the consistency is taken out of the equation.
In addition, with semi-automatics, users can adjust water temperature, the size of the grind and the amount of pressure. This allows experienced baristas to put their experience to work since brews can be adjusted as necessary.
A semi-automatic coffee maker provides the choice of either manual control or programmable doses. With a manual machine, the barista controls the extraction and brewing process according to their preference. Programmable semi-automatic units allow users to program the extraction time.
Semi-automatic units also offer consistency with the grind, dose and tamp, which makes it easy to replicate settings over many locations. Another advantage is that these machines don’t come with pre-programmed shot times. This allows the user to let the pump run for a shorter period to create a shot.
These machines offer between one and four groups or brew heads, which designates how many espressos an operator can brew at one time. Two-step machines also have whole bean hoppers on top, along with grinders incorporated into the machine.
Semi-automatic coffee machines are typically categorized by the daily volume produced. Capacities range from 10 to 20, 25 to 50, or 50 to 100 cups per day.
Newer machines incorporate temperature sensors in the steaming wand, which automatically stops the steaming process when milk reaches the appropriate temperature.
Semi-automatic coffee machine options, depending on the model, include color display panels that guide users through drink selection and preparation; a choice of pre-programmed specialty coffee beverages; integrated ceramic grinders; specialized frothing systems; and integrated rinsing, cleaning and descaling programs that minimize maintenance.
With newer technologies, flavor profiles can be downloaded off USB drives to deploy across numerous restaurant locations, digital messaging can be employed, and pulsating heat capabilities can keep coffee at optimum serving temperatures.
