Grinder Technology & Performance MOC¶
Grinder performance is determined primarily by burr geometry, burr size, motor speed, and the grinding path from bean to cup. The two dominant burr designs — flat and conical — produce different particle size distributions with distinct sensory implications: flat burrs tend towards a narrower, more uniform distribution associated with clarity and brightness, while conical burrs produce a bimodal distribution that contributes body and sweetness. Motor speed, retention design, and dosing system further differentiate grinders at both home and professional scales. This MOC organises all technical knowledge about how grinders work and how to evaluate their performance.
Deep Dives¶
| Article | What it covers |
|---|---|
| How Grinders Work | Burr mechanics, particle formation, and the grinding process |
| Grinder Types | Overview of grinder categories by burr type and drive system |
| Grind Consistency | Why uniform particle size matters for extraction |
| Grind Size Distribution | Fines, target particles, and boulders — and their brewing effects |
| Particle Distribution | The distribution curve and how to read it |
| Recent developments in Grinders | Modern burr designs, retention features, and single-dose technology |
| The Evolution of Coffee Grinders | Historical development from hand mills to high-precision burrs |
Burr Geometry¶
Flat vs. conical: Burr Grinder | Burr grinders | Grinder Types
Distribution differences: Grind Size Distribution | Particle Distribution | Grind Consistency
Motor and Speed¶
Drive systems: How Grinders Work | Grinder Types by Application
Dosing and Retention¶
Dosing systems: Grinder Types by Application | How Grinders Work
Retention and single-dose: Recent developments in Grinders
Performance Testing and Comparison¶
Evaluation: Comparing the FIMO A2 and A5 Grinders | Grinder Selection Guide
Grind and extraction: Grind Adjustment | Coffee Extraction Fundamentals MOC
Related MOCs¶
- Coffee Grinders MOC — Grinder selection, types, and buying guidance
- Grinder Maintenance & Care MOC — Cleaning, calibration, and burr replacement
- Coffee Extraction Fundamentals MOC — How grind quality affects extraction
- Espresso MOC — Espresso-specific grinder requirements
- Coffee Equipment MOC — Full equipment ecosystem
Essential Resources¶
Books: The Professional Barista's Handbook (Scott Rao) · Coffee: A Comprehensive Guide (SCA)
Online: Barista Hustle grinder science articles · Coffee Ad Astra (Jonathan Gagné) · Home-Barista technical forums
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