The coffee segment has evolved substantially in the last couple decades, with specialty coffee becoming a staple as well as a number of creative beverages emerging, such as nitro and cold brews.
Coffee brewers provide an essential beverage service to foodservice operations. These machines heat water to between 195 degrees F and 202 degrees F. Although operators can use the hot water to steep tea, true connoisseurs of this beverage may consider the maximum water temperature too low. Brewers also have water faucets to supply hot water for different applications, such as producing oatmeal, soup and hot chocolate.
Operators installing new coffee machines have to take into consideration water conditions. Treat water for taste, odor and mineral deposits with proper filtration. Regularly change water filters to prevent buildup. Also, check brew levels to determine whether there is scale on the brew tank since it will reduce the amount of water inside.
Coffee brewers are generally categorized by brew volume or the vessel into which the beverage is brewed. For example, decanter types brew into glass decanters, thermal coffee brewers brew into large servers, and satellite or shuttle brewers brew into non-thermally insulated servers.
Cafes are less likely to use single-cup capsule brewers, which provide between 6 and 20 ounces of coffee at a time in 30 to 50 seconds, since these operators typically use shuttle brewing systems, which brew into 1.5-gallon containers or shuttles. A standard twin shuttle brewer can produce approximately 10 shuttles per hour, or approximately 160 12-ounce cups per hour. With optional heating elements, productivity boosts up to 20 shuttles per hour or 320 12-ounce cups per hour.
Consultant Q&A: Ignacio Goris, president, Labor Guru, Miami
Featured Products
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Duro Insulated Server
Frieling USA Inc.
The Duro Insulated Server keeps beverages hot for up to 8 hours or cold up to 16. The 44-ounce server sits 8 inches tall with a stainless-steel body and liner, chrome-plated ABS handle and hinged lid.
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Commercial Automated French Press
Bravura Press
The Automated French Press brews up to 30 liters of coffee per hour and utilizes easy-to-operate, self-cleaning features. The on-demand heat system provides energy savings. In addition to the hot water dispenser, users can switch from preparing coffee to making flavored hot beverages, consommes and broths.
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