Your Questions, Answered
Quick Dial In
STEP 1: ADJUST THE FINE-CUTTING BURR
Start by adjusting the fine-cutting burr to match your desired final grind size. Refer to the quick settings in the user manual for helpful tips and visual cues.
STEP 2: ADJUST THE PRE-BREAKING BURR
When grinding for espresso, it’s crucial to adjust your pre-breaking burr. Failing to do this could result in the fine-cutting burr becoming clogged, or even damage to the grinder. However, don’t be afraid to experiment!
Discover the flavor profiles resulting from faster or slower grinding, and find the pace that suits your taste best. If you find your favorite settings for each brewing method, don’t hesitate to share with them us.
How to adjust the crank?
MOMENTEM not only considers diverse brewing methods but also takes into account the unique physical characteristics of the users. As coffee enthusiasts, we may share a common passion, but our arm lengths and hand sizes vary considerably. To address these differences, MOMENTEM features an adjustable crank arm that can be customized from 12.95cm to 15.95cm. This seemingly minor adjustment ensures a comfortable and personalized coffee brewing experience, highlighting that even the smallest changes can have a profound impact.
How to Use the Replacement Kit?
For Silicon Pad Replacement: The kit includes a brand-new bottom lid to replace if your grinder’s silicon pad on the bottom has issues. Simply remove the old bottom lid and replace it with the new one provided in the kit for a fresh start.
How to sift with sieves?
The built-in sieve filter system gives you complete control over your coffee’s flavor by managing the coffee ground size. You can easily reintroduce the sifted fine coffee ground at any time to create your ideal flavor.
HOW TO INSTALL A SIEVE
1. Select your desired sieve filter.
2. Gently place the sieve inside the catch cup. The magnets will automatically secure it in place.
REPLACE OR REMOVE SIEVE
Remove the fine receiver, and apply gentle pressure with your thumb to disengage the sieve from the catch cup.
Caution: The sieve is extremely delicate. Avoid using pointed objects or exerting force as it can cause damage.
NOT A FAN OF THE FILTER?
If the built-in sifter doesn’t meet your preference, you have the option to utilize the Default Ring as an alternative. To proceed, follow the same installation process as the sifter. This will effectively fill any gaps and ensure that fine grounds don’t accumulate in that area.
FUN AND EASY BREWING/DISTRIBUTING
The built-in sifter makes it simple to grind and sieve your coffee simultaneously. As you grind, MOMENTEM naturally separates the fine grounds, collecting them in a dedicated receiver. We’ve also included a versatile pad that doubles as a sifting lid, perfect for covering the catch cup during extra sifting, and also a great distribution tool.
How to use the Dechaff Sieve?
GRINDER SETTINGS
Based on our tests, the recommended default setting for the pre-breaking burr is approximately 1 full rotation and 20 clicks (No.2) on the external adjusting dial. However, please note that this setting may not be suitable for all types of beans due to variations in roast levels and bean types.
We advise starting with this default setting and making small adjustments as needed to achieve the best possible results.
Caution: Grinding coarser than the dechaffer size can cause your grinder to clog. When an excess of larger coffee grounds accumulates above the fine-grinding station, it can cause the burr set to become dislocated and pop out.
On the other hand, grinding too fine can slow down the grinding process, produce an excessively fine powder, and introduce more chaff into your coffee.
HOW TO INSTALL THE DECHAFFER?
1) Position the dechaffer over the fine-grinding station. Ensure that the shape of the sieve perfectly aligns with the hexogonally shaped magnets.
2) Once the dechaffer is correctly positioned, the powerful magnets will automatically secure it in place.
HOW TO REMOVE THE DECHAFFER?
1) Gently rotate the dechaffer until it becomes misaligned.
2) Proceed by lifting one corner of the dechaffer, followed by the other corners, taking care not to apply excessive force.
*Exercise caution during this process, as the dechaffer is constructed from thin SUS410 material, and improper handling can potentially bend or damage the sieves.
RECOMMENDED TESTING PROCEDURE
We recommend conducting a quick test before using the dechaffing feature. Follow these steps:
1) Remove the fine-cutting station from the grinder. 2) Add coffee to the grinder and place it securely on a flat surface.
3) Grind the coffee and observe the particle size without the second step of grinding. 4) Compare the particle size with the size of the dechaffing holes.
This extra step may take a few minutes, but it will help you achieve the best possible results.
By following this testing procedure and starting with the default settings, you can ensure the desired particle size and optimal performance of the dechaffing feature.
*Utilizing the dechaffer might cause a slight reduction in your grinding speed.
*Please note that using the dechaffer does not promise 100% chaff-free coffee as chaff shapes and sizes are inconsistent.
TIPS
Occasionally, particles may become clogged on top of the sieve. In such situations, moving the grinder rapidly up and down can help to relocate the coffee grounds inside the grinder. This will encourage any clogged particles to travel through the sieve and prevent them from blocking the grinder.
How to reset the fine-grinding unit? (The 2nd conical burr)
HOW TO RESET THE BURRS
Follow the steps outlined below to safely reset your burr set after cleaning your grinder.
1. Begin by adjusting the external ring dial to the 0. It’s important to proceed carefully here – avoid over-rotating the adjustment ring to prevent potential damage to the adjustment system.
2. Align the small marking line above the ‘0’ on the ring dial. Subsequently, push the burr upward into the grinder body. As you do this, ensure the hexagonal shapes align with each other.
3. If the burr set cannot be completely pushed back, simply rotate the crank in a counterclockwise motion. This rotation of the first axle will help you locate the locking position that will enable the axles to connect successfully.
Your burr set should now be successfully reset. Always remember to execute these steps with care to maintain the functionality and longevity of your grinder.
How Does Two-Step Grinding Affect Particle Distribution?
Q: Does two-step grinding really affect the particle distribution in a different way compared to single burr grinders?
A: Thanks for this great question! We’ve been exploring this fascinating aspect in collaboration with Bettersize, utilizing their advanced analysis tools to understand the impact of two-step grinding on particle distribution.
Here’s what we’ve found: when the fine-cutting burr remains constant, adjusting the pre-breaking burr can actually change the particle distribution curve – it can make the curve either narrower or wider.
Think of it this way: with traditional single burr grinders, adjusting the conical burr typically shifts the curve left (finer) or right (coarser). This is a one-directional movement, though we know it’s a bit more complex than this in reality.
With MOMENTEM’s two-step grinding, we’re unlocking a new dimension. This approach allows the curve to shift up and down. Our tests show that a coarser setting on the pre-breaking burr flattens the curve on the particle distribution chart, while a finer setting narrows the curve, without significantly altering the target grind size.
We understand more testing is needed to fully validate this feature, but our initial findings are exciting. It’s important to note that while our tests may not be the most scientific, we’re eager to delve deeper into this with coffee enthusiasts who share our passion for understanding and harnessing the full potential of two-step grinding.
We welcome your thoughts, insights, or experiences regarding two-step grinding. Your input is invaluable as we continue to explore and learn together in this coffee journey. So, feel free to reach out and share your views with us!
Disclaimer for Two-Step Grinding and Particle Distribution
Please Note: While we at I’M NOT A BARISTA have dedicated ourselves to designing and creating the MOMENTEM grinder, we fully acknowledge that the world of coffee science is vast and ever-evolving. Our insights and findings on two-step grinding and its impact on particle distribution are based on our current understanding and testing.
We are passionate about coffee and committed to continuous learning. It’s important to recognize that, like any field of study, our current perspectives on coffee grinding and particle distribution might evolve with further research and discoveries. We could be wrong, or there might be more to uncover in this topic.
Our goal is to share what we’ve learned and to invite conversation and exploration. We encourage our community of coffee enthusiasts to keep an open mind, experiment, and contribute to the broader understanding of coffee science. Together, we can continue to grow and refine our knowledge in this fascinating field.
Bettersize Instruments is a leader in particle sizing technology in China, expanding globally with a commitment to innovation, quality instruments, and excellent customer service. Investing 15% of annual revenue in R&D, Bettersize supports a wide range of industries with precise material characterization, driving research and production efficiency worldwide.
Tips for Espresso Grinding
Optimizing Espresso Grind with the MOMENTEM Grinder
When you’re preparing to grind for espresso, setting your MOMENTEM grinder correctly is key to achieving the perfect grind. An important aspect to consider is the handling of coffee grounds during the grinding process, especially when using finer settings.
Understanding the Grinder Settings for Espresso: For espresso, you might find yourself adjusting the top pre-breaking burr to fewer than 50 clicks (Number 5 on the adjustment ring) At this finer setting, you may notice that the lighter, smaller coffee grounds can occasionally remain lodged inside the second grinding unit (the fine-cutting burr).
Recommended Technique for Efficient Grinding: To ensure these fine grounds move efficiently into the fine-cutting burr for a consistent espresso grind, we recommend the following technique:
- Grind as Usual: Begin your grinding process with the set parameters for espresso grind at 35 clicks.
- Facilitate Grounds Movement: Once you’ve completed grinding, quickly rotate the grinder body and the catch cup to different directions. This motion will create a knocking effect that helps in dislodging any grounds that might have remained inside the second grinding unit (Red zone) .
- Ensure Complete Transfer: Continue rotating until you feel confident that all the finer grounds have moved into the catch cup.
Why This Matters: This technique is crucial for a couple of reasons:
- It ensures that you get the most out of your coffee beans, with minimal waste (minimal retention).
Remember: While the MOMENTEM grinder is designed for efficiency and ease of use, certain grind settings, especially those for finer grinds like espresso, require a bit of extra care to ensure the best results.
By following this simple method, you can enjoy a consistently excellent espresso grind, every time.
How often should I clean my grinder?
To ensure your MOMENTEM continues to perform at its best, regular care and maintenance are essential. For optimal results, we suggest using the included brush for surface cleaning at least once a week. For a more thorough clean, disassembling and deep cleaning your grinder monthly is ideal. This routine will keep your MOMENTEM grinding precisely and producing the freshest flavors, ensuring a delightful coffee experience every time.
How Many Microns per Click on the Adjustment Rings?
Q: How many microns does each click change on the MOMENTEM grinder’s adjustment rings?
A: Great question! Precision in grind size is key to crafting the perfect cup of coffee. On the MOMENTEM grinder, each click on the adjustment rings alters the burr distance, allowing you to fine-tune your grind size.
- Pre-Breaking Burr: Each click adjusts the burr distance by 25 microns.
- Fine-Cutting Burr: Each click on this ring changes the burr distance by 18 microns, offering a finer control for the subsequent grinding stage.
It’s important to note that while these measurements indicate the change in burr distance, they don’t directly translate to the exact size change in coffee grounds. The actual grind size will also depend on other factors such as the type of beans, their roast level, and moisture content. Experiment and adjust to find the perfect setting for your taste!
Is It Normal That the Tightest Position on Both Burrs Isn't Zero?
Q: I noticed that the tightest position on both the pre-breaking and fine-cutting adjustment rings isn’t at zero. Is this by design?
A: Absolutely, this is a thoughtful design aspect of the MOMENTEM grinder. Let’s break it down:
- Intentional Design for Durability: The MOMENTEM grinder is robustly built for lasting use. However, the internal structure, particularly the adjustment rings, can be susceptible to damage if excessive force is used. To prevent any potential damage from over-tightening, we’ve intentionally set the tightest position of the burrs to not coincide with zero.
- Non-Absolute Zero Approach: MOMENTEM’s “Zero” is deliberately set to 6 clicks from the tightest position. This safety margin helps protect the grinder’s delicate components and ensures a longer lifespan.
- Calibration Tips for Fine-Cutting Burr: The pre-breaking burr doesn’t require calibration, but it’s important to be mindful when setting the fine-cutting burr. Upon calibrating, you’ll notice that when the conical burr is completely closed, it’s recommended to adjust it 5-7 clicks to reach the “Zero” position. Always ensure to align the “Zero” with the rest line on the grinder’s body before completing the assembly.
By understanding and respecting these design nuances, you can enjoy a consistently precise grind and extend the life of your MOMENTEM grinder. Happy brewing!
MOMENTEM Grinder Carrying Case
Q3: How compact is the MOMENTEM carrying case?
A3: The case is designed to be compact and portable, making it easy to take your MOMENTEM grinder wherever you go. Its small size is perfect for coffee enthusiasts who love to brew their favorite coffee on the move.
Q4: Why doesn’t the case have extra space for accessories like brushes or spray bottles? |
A4: We aimed for a balance of compactness, safety, and a premium experience in designing this case. To maintain its minimal and elegant design, we chose not to include additional space for accessories like brushes or spray bottles. This decision aligns with our vision of a luxurious yet practical carrying solution for your grinder.
Q5: Is there a guide on how to properly use the carrying case?
A5: Absolutely! We understand that getting the best use out of your carrying case is important. That’s why we created a demonstration video showing the easiest way to place your grinder inside the case. This guide ensures you can enjoy both the practicality and luxury of the case to its fullest.
What is the Dechaff Theory?
Q: How do I effectively use the dechaff sieve with my MOMENTEM grinder?
A: Using the dechaff sieve with your MOMENTEM grinder can make the process of removing chaff from your coffee more efficient. Here’s what you need to know:
Traditional Method vs. MOMENTEM’s Dechaff Sieve: Traditionally, removing chaff involves a two-step grinding process: grinding the coffee coarsely first, manually blowing away the chaff, and then grinding the coffee again to the desired grind size. This method, while effective, can be quite laborious and time-consuming.
MOMENTEM’s dechaff sieve is designed to simplify this process. It’s important to note, however, that this feature is experimental and tends to work best with certain types of coffee beans. Our testing has shown that washed coffee beans with big chaff are most compatible with the dechaff sieve. Beans with smaller, broken chaff pieces may not experience the same benefits.
Using the Dechaff Sieve: When using the dechaff sieve, it’s crucial to adjust the pre-breaking burr to a fine enough setting. This ensures that the pre-ground coffee can pass through the sieve without clogging the second grinding unit. Failure to properly adjust the burr might lead to clogging or could potentially dislodge the grind unit, risking damage to your grinder.
Remember, the goal is to make your coffee brewing experience both enjoyable and efficient. Here are a few tips:
1. Start with the Right Beans: Use beans that are known to have fuller chaff for the best results with the dechaff sieve, for example, Ethiopian washed coffee.
2. Adjust the Pre-Breaking Burr: Ensure it’s fine enough to allow coffee grounds to pass through the sieve smoothly.
3. Monitor the Grind: Be attentive to the flow of coffee grounds to prevent clogging.
Ongoing Innovation: We are continuously exploring and testing different sieve sizes and shapes to optimize the dechaffing process. Your feedback and experiences are invaluable to us in this journey of innovation. If you have suggestions or thoughts about improving the dechaff sieve or wish to share your experiences, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
We’re here to support and grow with you, enhancing the MOMENTEM experience one brew at a time!
What is Reversed Grinding?
REVERSED GRINDING
Introducing a different approach to grinding called “reverse grinding”. Instead of the traditional coarse grind followed by a fine one, this method involves starting with a fine grind and then proceeding to a coarse grind.
Through our testing, we have discovered this interesting two-step grinding technique: first, use the pre-breaking burr to grind to your desired size, and then use the fine-cutting burr to break down larger boulders. According to our tests, this process helps minimize the production of fines that typically occur during double grinding, resulting in a more uniform particle distribution with fewer boulders.
WARMING:
Reversed grinding is a more advanced and experimental technique and may not be the optimal approach for achieving fine grinds. Typically, medium and fine coffee grounds are lighter and can more easily become lodged within the 2nd grinding unit. This can lead to an undesirable amount of coffee retention, necessitating more frequent cleaning and potentially affecting the freshness and flavor of subsequent brews.
If your aim is a fine grind, particularly for espresso or similar brewing methods, it’s generally more efficient and effective to use the standard grinding process – Corase -> Fine Grinding. This method minimizes retention and saves you more time.
While we encourage experimentation to find the perfect grind for your taste, be mindful of the limitations and maintenance that might come with alternative methods like reversed grinding, especially when working towards finer grinds. Your goal should always be to enjoy the richest flavor and most satisfying coffee experience.
What is the Wood Used for the Extra Knob in MOMENTEM?
Q: Can you tell us more about the wood used for the extra knob in the MOMENTEM grinder?
A: Absolutely! The black knob included with your MOMENTEM grinder is crafted from African Ebony wood, a material renowned for its exceptional qualities and aesthetics.
African Ebony Wood – A Touch of Elegance and Durability: African Ebony wood is highly prized and carries a certain prestige, making it a sought-after material in fine woodworking. Here are a few reasons why it’s special:
- Dark and Luxurious Appearance: The deep, rich black color of African Ebony gives it a luxurious and sophisticated appearance. It’s not just about looks; the wood’s darkness perfectly complements the MOMENTEM’s design, adding an element of elegance.
- Exceptional Hardness: African Ebony is among the hardest woods in the world. This extreme hardness translates to excellent durability and longevity, ensuring that the knob withstands the rigors of daily use without losing its aesthetic appeal.
- Expensive Material: The wood’s rarity and high demand contribute to its higher price. African Ebony is not easily found, and its processing requires skilled craftsmanship, adding to its value.
Insights on the Knob’s Internal Mechanics: Talking about the knob, we have integrated a robust needle bearing inside each burr. This bearing is key to providing a quiet and smooth grinding experience. It ensures there’s no squeaky sound, just buttery smooth grinding, enhancing the overall experience of using the MOMENTEM.
The Original Idea – Coffee Tree Wood: Initially, our vision was to use wood from coffee trees for the knob, aligning with our coffee-centric theme. However, this idea faced practical challenges. Finding coffee tree wood in the right size, especially given the larger dimensions of the MOMENTEM knob, proved difficult. As a result, we pivoted to African Ebony wood, which not only met our size requirements but also added a level of sophistication and durability that we’re proud to offer with MOMENTEM.
We hope this insight gives you a deeper appreciation of the thought and craftsmanship that goes into every component of your MOMENTEM grinder.
Scratches on the MOMENTEM Grinder - Are They Normal?
A: While it is rare to see significant scratches on the MOMENTEM grinder, it is possible to notice some minor imperfections. We assure you that these small marks do not affect the functionality of the grinder.
During the production and quality control process, each part of MOMENTEM undergoes careful examination and serious testing. This means that the grinder you have in your hands has been meticulously inspected before being shipped to you. However, it’s important to understand that the nature of metal product manufacturing process can lead to unavoidable minor scratches, particularly where metal parts connect, such as the fine grinding unit and the interior of the grinder.
We have employed Hard Oxidation on all grinder parts to enhance durability. This coating is robust, but like all coatings, it can show wear, especially when in contact with other metal surfaces. With careful handling and avoiding contact with other hard surfaces, the coating should maintain its integrity for an extended period.
In our pursuit to perfect the bold black style of the first batch of MOMENTEM, we’ve paid special attention to certain design aspects. For instance, the magnets inside the catch cup. Unlike the typical silver or original color magnets found in most grinders, we opted for a cool, colored approach. However, it’s worth noting that the black coating on these magnets may wear off over time. Rest assured, this cosmetic change won’t impact the grinder’s performance.
We understand the desire for a flawless appearance and are continuously striving to enhance every aspect of MOMENTEM, balancing aesthetic appeal with functional durability. We appreciate your understanding and are committed to delivering a product that meets your expectations in both style and performance.
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