The EG-1 Coffee Grinder is a professional-grade device designed for precision coffee grinding, suitable for both commercial and home use. Its robust construction and thoughtful design emphasize ease of use, consistent performance, and straightforward maintenance.
Function Description
The primary function of the EG-1 is to grind whole coffee beans into a desired particle size for various brewing methods. It operates by introducing beans into a grinding chamber, where they are processed by burrs to achieve a consistent grind. The grinder is designed to be versatile, accommodating a wide range of grind settings from very fine (espresso) to coarser grinds. A key feature is its ability to operate within a broad voltage range (90v-240v AC), eliminating the need for a separate transformer in most regions and allowing for global compatibility with a standard C13 style power cable.
Usage Features
The EG-1 offers several features that enhance its usability and control:
- Setup and Placement: The grinder requires a flat, dry counter space with access to a power outlet. Its heavy construction necessitates careful handling when removing it from packaging.
- Bean Dish: A magnetic bean dish easily attaches to the top of the grinder, aligning with stainless dowel pins to securely hold it in place. This dish serves as the reservoir for whole coffee beans before grinding.
- Portafilter Rail System: The grinder includes a portafilter rail system, which can be configured with a circular rail, a ring funnel, or a rail fork. The PF Cover is removable to accommodate these accessories. This system is designed to hold a portafilter or the Blind Shaker, allowing for direct grinding into the desired container.
- Powering On/Off: The main power switch is located on the back of the unit, near the power cord inlet. Once the mains power is on, the RPM display will show "0". The grinder is then activated by pressing the On/Off button on the front base, which illuminates and remains depressed when the blades are spinning.
- RPM Adjustment: The EG-1 features an RPM knob and display, allowing users to precisely control the rotational speed of the burrs. A recommended starting point is the 500-700 RPM range. The RPMs display briefly, enabling pre-setting without running the grinder.
- Grind Setting Adjustment: Grind adjustments are made by lifting and turning the locking ring. Larger numbers on the ring correspond to larger (coarser) particles. Each "tick" on the adjustment ring represents a 5-micron change in grind size. The grinder is typically shipped with a setting close to espresso, but users can easily adjust it to suit their specific brewing method and coffee type. There is no absolute "zero" setting, allowing for continuous adjustment.
- Grinding Process (Hot Start/Cold Start): Users can choose between a "Hot Start" or "Cold Start" method. In a "Hot Start," the grinder is turned on and spinning before coffee beans are introduced into the bean dish. In a "Cold Start," beans are added first, then the grinder is activated. The manual recommends a "Hot Start" for optimal operation.
- Expunging Residual Grounds: After grinding, any remaining coffee grounds in the spout can be expunged by clicking the "clicker" located at the back of the bean funnels.
- Sleep Mode and Power Off: The EG-1 is programmed to enter a sleep mode after 60 seconds of inactivity, dimming its LED display. It can be instantly woken by pressing the On/Off button. For prolonged periods of non-use, such as overnight in cafes or at home, it is recommended to power down the grinder at the mains.
Maintenance Features
The EG-1 is designed for exceptionally easy and tool-free cleaning, making daily maintenance a simple process:
- Accessing the Grind Chamber: To clean the grind chamber, first ensure the grinder is powered down at the mains and the On/Off button is not depressed. The Upper and Lower funnels can then be removed. These funnels are unlocked by pulling them down from their pins and magnets, then pulled out from the unit.
- Cleaning the Grind Chamber: Once the funnels are removed, the grind chamber is easily accessible. A small brush can be used to clean any coffee residue from the surfaces within the chamber. Wiping with a damp towel is also acceptable.
- Care Instructions: It is crucial not to place any EG-1 parts into a dishwasher, as this will cause damage.
- Pre-shipment Testing and Cleaning: Each unit undergoes test grinding with approximately 200g of coffee before shipping. While cleaned afterward, small remnants of beans may still be present upon arrival, which is normal.
- Spare Wipers: The grinder comes with three sets of spare wipers, indicating that these are user-replaceable components, contributing to long-term maintenance and performance.
The EG-1 Grinder is intended for professional use and should only be operated by trained or qualified personnel. Minors or small children should not be allowed to operate or play with the machine. Misuse or unintended use can lead to serious injury or death.
Crucial safety precautions include:
- Always unplug the grinder from mains electricity before servicing, inspecting, or cleaning.
- Before initial operation, remove the Upper and Lower burr funnels to ensure the grind chamber is empty and free of foreign objects.
- Do NOT operate the grinder without the Upper and Lower Funnels properly in place.
- Do NOT at any time place fingers or foreign objects inside the Exit Spout.