Two methods of temperature control for coffee roasting
In this article I will introduce temperature control for manual roasting by showing you the tools I use.
Also in this article,
The manual roasting machine I usually use
I will use the "Union Sample Roaster" which is my usual manual roasting machine.
Please check out my other articles on manual roasting.
The Importance of Temperature Control
Temperature control is a very important factor when roasting coffee beans.
By accurately monitoring the temperature changes during the roasting process,
the flavor and characteristics of the coffee beans can be brought out.
This article introduces two different methods of temperature control.
Let's start with the simple and easy method.
Method 1: Simple Control with a Stick Thermometer
The first method is a simple approach using a stick-type thermometer.
This thermometer is inserted into the opening of the roasting machine to periodically measure the internal temperature.
I use a stick-type thermometer
Although it is possible to use a hand-held thermometer to take measurements,
However, in the case of manual roasting, it is difficult to measure many times with a hand-held thermometer because the handle is always turned.
Also, the higher the temperature, the longer it takes to measure with this type of thermometer.
(The temperature rises gradually when the power is turned on and reaches the current temperature value.)
Therefore, the hand-held method of repeatedly inserting and removing the thermometer requires time for measurement each time.
This makes it difficult to measure the temperature at the time when you want to check it.
Therefore, it is recommended to always measure the temperature by fixing the thermometer,
Prepare a stand that can hold the thermometer according to the height of the roasting machine.
In my case, I use a wooden box or a stand with a clip that I have at home.
If you do not have a substitute, you can also purchase an arm clip or similar from an online store and use it.
by securing it with the stand and clip and keep measuring the temperature,
You can check the temperature at any time during roasting.
This way, you can easily check the temperature visually while keeping the handle turned.
Problems with continuous temperature measurement
This method is easy and simple, but there is one problem
This is when you check the beans with the test spoon that comes with the machine.
With the thermometer fixed like this,
the provided test spoon will not fit...
When you want to check the beans with the test spoon
Remove the thermometer once like this,
check the beans, and then put the thermometer back in again.
This is a lot of work,
And once the thermometer is removed
It also takes time to measure the temperature again.
How to solve the problem
Here is what we are trying as a solution to this problem
I changed the spoon to this type
A long-handled spoon with a length of about 22 cm and a width of 2.5 cm
(You can find various types at online stores such as Amazon)
Do not use the provided spoon,
By using this spoon instead, you can check the beans with the thermometer inserted
You can check the beans with the thermometer inserted.
This method requires the least amount of time and effort, and allows you to check the temperature at all times.
By checking the temperature every minute while watching the clock and recording the temperature changes,
help you manage the roasting process.
Please refer to the following
Method 2: Advanced control using a wired thermometer and monitor
Next up,
temperature control using a wired thermometer and monitor.
This approach allows real-time monitoring of temperature changes during the roasting process.
However, it requires a special thermometer and monitor,
available in Japan, but may be difficult to obtain overseas.
Please read this only as a reference.
Connecting a wired thermometer and a monitor
Setting up a roasting monitor
Powered by portable battery, the monitor displays the roasting process
This way, temperature changes can be displayed graphically in real time and historical data can be recorded and analyzed.
It helps to optimize the roasting process by monitoring temperature changes from the start to the end of the roasting process.
Spoon Selection
This method also requires some ingenuity in spoon selection
The spoons introduced have long handles and an elongated shape.
This makes it easier to insert the spoon by pulling the thermometer a little closer,
and check the condition of the beans at the same time as controlling the temperature.
Summary
Temperature control during coffee roasting is essential to bring out the flavor and characteristics of the beans,
It is an essential element to bring out the flavor and characteristics of the beans.
Starting with simple methods and understanding the temperature changes during the roasting process, it is possible to better understand the roasting process and to optimize the roasting process,
You will be able to better understand and optimize your roasting process.
Experiment with different methods to find the temperature control technique that works best for you.
Tools used in this article
Manual roasting machine Union Sample Roaster
Roasting monitor ZEN
Recommended tools
Stick type thermometer
Monitor type thermometer
Test Spoon
**Note**.
Availability of thermometer types and tools may vary by region.
Consider items available at online stores, etc., and ,
refer to the sizes listed in the article.
