Closer Look Review

Transcription

Closer Look Review

Information Technology Solutions
VESUVIUS AN ADVANCED TWIN BOILER, PRESSURE PROFILING
ESPRESSO MACHINE - PROTOTYPE REVIEW
Full 7 stage pressure profiling. Able
to control global pump acceleration
and store to 5 profiles
EXCELLE NCE IN DESIGN
True innovation, an extraordinary
Dual boiler system, full dual loop PID
control.
machine hidden inside an
unassuming case.
High quality AISI 316L Stainless steel
Boilers 2mm thick (8mm end plates),
fully insulated
AVAILABLE SOON
This review covers the prototype,
Touch Screen Display, with
commercial mainboard computer
control
which has had 100s of hours of
design work to produce the final
production machines, available
Very powerful steaming
June/July 2014
Last shot protection (LSP), never
lose that last shot to a low water tank
level
UNIQUE
No other single group prosumer
machine one sale at the time of
writing has these capabilities.
PATENT PENDING PRESSURE
PROFILING SYSTEM
New ideas for a new type of
machine.
FASTWARM ™ (PATENT
PENDING)
Normally E61 machines take
Ambiente&spresso, A slightly unusual name, is a new
company formed by 2 experienced professionals in
the coffee business. They have the vision,
determination and experience to make the Vesuvius a
unique machine..
Antonio Nurri worked many years for Izzo as their
Sales Manager and was the driving force behind the
introduction of the popular Izzo Alex Duetto dual boiler
espresso machine. Without Antonio and Rodney
Binley (owner of Bella Barista), one of the first
prosumer, rotary pumped dual boiler machines
with a PID, would never have been made! I know
Antonio reasonably well and at lunch many years ago
we discussed dual boiler machines, where the Duetto
was going and where things needed to go. We also
discussed spring levers like the Izzo Pompeii and why
they produced a good shot. Much of this we felt was
down to the different pressure profile of the lever
machine.
approximately 45 minutes to fully
warm up. Fastwarm, is a
completely new function where
the Vesuvius is ready for use in
Paolo Cortese owns Elcor an already established
player in the beverage industry in Italy. He is an
extremely skilled mechanical engineer and a highly
competent (inventive) designer with experience of
complex electronics and mechanical design that
extends well beyond the beverage industry.
15-17 minutes after switching on.
It will be included, if possible on
the retail machines (This is
subject to program space being
available on the mainboard).
We have 2 very experienced people in the beverage
and coffee industry. In a sense the Vesuvius
incorporated years of Antonios experience, some of
our discussions, plus the highly creative mechanical
expression of Paolo (chief designer and partner).
Amazingly I may be more conservative than Paolo, a
very unusual situation for me, as the Italian
manufacturers I usually talk to are unwilling to break
new ground! It is great to see some of the ideas I
have thought about and wanted to see in espresso
machines over the last 3 or 4 years, in the Vesuvius.
It's even better that Paolo is more than willing to work
with me, the retailers and listen to customers needs.
This makes some of the more "creative" ideas a reality in
this and future machines. I have had the prototype
machine, for 3 months and have used it a lot, perhaps
more than even the designers.
Bella Barista is a major player in the UK prosumer and
commercial coffee market. Their support and Rodney's
enthusiasm to bring something new to the market are
important to this project. They will be fully supporting the
launch and ongoing sales of the Vesuvius in the UK
This "first look" covers the prototype machine I have
and the changes for the future production machines.
The blue text is used to highlight changes from the
prototype to the production machine (where I have
remembered to do so). It will give an insight into the
development process and considerations when moving
from a prototype to a full production model
Currently dealers in Australia, Germany, Netherlands
Denmark and the UK have a few "dealer machines",
these are different from the final production machines
that will be produced in late June, early July 2014.
These "dealer machines" are a little further along
than the prototype and were produced to meet the
demand for demonstration units. Paolo and I have
had many discussions resulting in a lot of changes,
some driven by dealers, most driven by us. Although this
prototype machine is good....the production machines
need to be as good as they can be, whilst remaining
competitive on cost.
Just so you do not misunderstand me, even though there
is room for improvement on the prototype, there is no
single group prosumer machine on the planet that
does what my prototype Vesuvius does today and it
has worked flawlessly for me so far!
vesuvius prototype first look 10.doc Page 1 of 18
OVERVIEW - THE CASE AND SHIPPING
Machine is bolted to base of case, so a spanner is
required, but wing bolts will be used in retail
machines, "vite a farfalla" in Italian.
Case is a bit of a close fit to the
machine. It will be slightly larger
and have internal padding
it came in this ingenious wooden crate that
actually folds flat for storage
The case, wonderful, not seen anything like it before and
it took a while to work out how to get it all unpacked. It's
simple enough once you get the hang of it, but if you
ever ship it again, you will have to relearn it all.
It is a bit too small and needs some padding inside. This
is one of the things they will be changing along with
softer rubber (55 ShA) anti-vibration upper section feet
on the machine to absorb impacts a little better. The feet
are in 2 parts with 1 part permanently on the machine
and it's these inner rubber feet that bolt the machine to
the base of the case.
The case is great for protecting the machine and once
opened it's easy to get at the machine rather than
reaching into a deep box. It stores well once the machine
is removed.
Opening the current version could be frustrating, but this
case will be greatly improved in the production machines
. Now it wasn't in my machine, but there will also be a
neat wooden box inside the crate holding all the
accessories. I have attached some preliminary photos
and as you can see it all looks rather smart. However,
I'm hoping they will remember to put some padding
under the smart wooden tray!
OVERVIEW - CONTENTS AND PHOTOS
Within the box there will be the usual stuff and some
extras, so lets list them.
PRODUCTION MACHINES
•
2 Portafilter Handles
Please note the photos here are
•
Blind filter
of the prototype. It has standard
•
hoses for plumbing in
handles, the ones on the
•
2 extra Gicleurs 0.5 and 0.8mm (0.7
fitted in machine)
•
The pre-infusion spring from your E61
group.
•
Bag of useful spare parts, they will try to
include 2 lever cam spindle gaskets for
E61, Teflon gaskets for group, 2
steam/water wand o rings, 2 group
gaskets, 2 heating element O rings, 2
steam wand tip O-rings.
production machines will be
wood and aluminum.
EXTRA SPARES
It can often be very difficult to
obtain some of the smaller and
more unusual parts. Ambient
aim to include as many of
these convenience spares as
they can
WITH NO GICLEUR
I tried the machine with no
Gicleur (flow restrictor) in the
E61, but the results for me were
not good. Especially at the lower
The last items are little things perhaps, but difficult to
get hold of and just those awkward parts that are so
useful to have to hand.
The Gicleurs actually fit in the top of the group and
are a flow restrictor. They do not affect the normal
thermosyphon activity of the group (the way the
group keeps toasty hot). They are simply a small hole
of a given diameter inside the E61 group, in the case
of the Vesuvius, the stock Gicleur is 0.7mm. They
regulate flow rate. The maximum static pressure is
unchanged, but the flow rate for dynamic pressures
can be increased or decreased. Now we don't know if
it will make any difference, but I suggested it might be
good to include them so that you can experiment. I
find the 0.7 to be good, but the pressure/pump
system is so versatile that more improvements might
be gained with different combinations.
pump accelerations I like to use.
During the 2 bar pre-infusion low
pressure phase the heat within
the brew boiler would actually
force water out ahead of the
pump....and far too much water,
in an uncontrolled flow condition.
WATER AND STEAM WANDS
The photos show the short water
wand that will be on production
machines, also the wand
positions will be reversed
HOW IT WORKS (SIMPLIFIED DIAGRAM OF PROTOTYPE)
PRODUCTION MACHINES
It's worth pointing out that the
production machines will have
some differences not detailed
in this diagram. One of the main
things is the thermal isolation
of the brew boiler and
selectable preheat, or no
preheat, regardless of whether
the steam boiler is on r off.
MAINS WATER SYSTEM
To complement the capabilities
of the pressure profiling gear
pump which always draws from
the tank. The mains plumbing
system only ever refills the tank.
This design ensures no pressure
variances and that lower than
mains pressure infusion is
available.
It also means the solenoid is only
ever open while the tank is
refilling, so permanently open
solenoid buzz is never an issue
with this normally closed
solenoid. In fact all solenoids
on the machine are specifically
designed as normally closed.
The cold/hot water (steam) pathways shown in blue/red respectively. Flip a switch should mains plumbing be
desired and the machine can be returned to tanked operation in a few seconds. The larger boiler is the steam/hot
water boiler and the smaller one is the brew boiler. Note: the machine always draws from the internal tank, which
is topped up by the mains when required
The sensitive thermostat is located in the water of both boilers, their temperature controlled by a separate PID
controller algorithms from the motherboard. It uses three separate parameters; the Proportional, Integral and
Derivative values. These determine the level of reaction to any the large temp change, a correction factor that is
applied the nearer we get to the desired value and damping to reduce over/undershoots, or oscillation around a
set point. The rapid on/off switching of the boilers, due to the PID, is controlled by solid state switches, these
have a very fast switching time which aids temperature control and no contacts to wear as in mechanical relays.
The E61 group is warmed by a very efficient thermosyphon (shown by the blue dashed oval), specifically taken
from a point about 25% from the top of the brew boiler (preventing problems seen in some twin boiler machines).
Lifting the lever starts the pumping of brew water, lowering the lever stops the pump and additionally releases the
pressure from the group, so you can remove the filter handle safely, (the excess water goes into the drip tray
when pressure is released)
The pump keeps the Steam/HW boiler about 65% filled with water that is heated and kept at a pressure of 1.5 bar
The temperature of this water is above boiling point and has an area of steam above (similar to a pressure
cooker). The pipe for the steam wand is at the top of the boiler (in the steam area) as the steam tap is opened,
steam is forced through the steam pipe and as the pressure drops more of the water instantly flashes to steam,
giving a continuous supply. The pipe for the hot water tap is submerged below the waterline in the boiler. As the
hot water tap is opened, steam pressure forces the hot water from the boiler through the pipe and out of the hot
water outlet.
A gear pump is controlled by the motherboard and uses a pressure transducer to manage pressure. Various
pressure profiles can be applied and programmed, also global parameters for pump acceleration and the
pumps own PID algorithm can be modified by the user.
INSIDE THE VESUVIUS – IS IT COMPLICATED?
EASY MAINTENANCE
A simple spacious and clear
layout makes maintenance tasks
easy. Many maintenance tasks
can be completed by only
removing the top panel.
View from behind the group of what I call the "valve chest" the
thing under the red cover is the pressure transducer
Oddly enough, no, it doesn't look complicated,
however the apparent simplicity is deceptive. It would
be very easy to work on of course, because
components are very well spaced, with plenty of room
to get to everything.
The gear pump and motor unit
on my prototype. The observant
might notice I have an FG204
pump, but FG304 units are on all
other machines. They are almost
identical, but the 304 has better
seals.
The case comes apart to give easy access to all parts
of the machine. The lower plate can be removed for
access to the drain plug on the steam boiler and the
heating elements can be easily changed without
removing the boilers from the machine. In fact the
heating elements use O-rings rather than the hard
white Teflon washers normally used, which makes
undoing them remarkably easy and very little force is
required! It's something I also used when repairing
brew boiler heating element leaks on early model
Duettos and they worked far better than conventional
heating element gaskets.
Commercial motherboard used in quality multi
group machines capable of pressure profiling.
This motherboard has been in commercial use
for over 5 years and is a well proven product.
Super high quality AISI 316L steel custom made Steam
and brew boilers (both insulated). These boilers are
2mm thick (8mm thick at the end plates)
INSIDE THE VESUVIUS – IS IT COMPLICATED (CONT)?
On the prototype the side panel does
not open very far and has limited
movement. This is because it touches
the bench, but don't worry, it won't in
the production machines...because
they will have the correct feet and a
different (improved) hinge
mechanism..
Access to the water tank is behind the
swing panel and so are the main on/off
and steam on/off switches. The steam
on/off switch will be removed in the
production model as this function will
be controlled by the touch screen
This is how I prefer to fill my
machine... It's actually pretty easy to
fill the tank, as unlike most machines, I
don't have to slide it out from under
the cupboards.
Note, in this shot the machine was in
the corner, so the rear wall was
limiting how far I could open my panel.
See the photo above to see how wide
it opens on the prototype
The 2 Solid state relays, mounted in a very
cool location, excellent heat sinking.
INSIDE THE VESUVIUS PROTOTYPE – A MORE DETAILED TOUR
Temperature
probe steam
boiler
Vacuum
breaker
Calibrated
Safety Valve
UPGRADED VALVE SYSTEM
Autofill
probe
Exit from preheat
HX in steam
boiler, feeds brew
boiler
Steam
Pipe
The prototype has a conventional
Limit stat
vacuum breaker and safety
Temperature
probe, brew
boiler
valve. The production
machines will have a new
component where these 2
items are combined and
support a higher steam boiler
pressure. It has the additional
Insulated
steel
Steam/HW
Boiler 1.5 litre
advantage of ports for tubing, so
any water or steam can be
directed away from the
electronics of the machine in the
24V power board,
It's a prototype so I
don't have a cover,
yours will have a
cover!
Insulated steel
Brew Boiler
0.8 litre
Hot water
pipe
E61Thermo
syphon
in/out
event of a problem.
SPACE
There is lots of space within the
case and plenty of room between
component parts. The Vesuvius
2 solid
state
relays
Water Tank,
with
capacitive
sensing
is definitely not cramped inside
FG 304 variable
speed mag drive
gear pump unit.
Using brushless
24V DC motor
Commercial
mainboard, for
control of all
functions
which allows good airflow and
easy maintenance. Components
can be sited in the best place
and not just wherever they can
be squeezed in!
Both Boilers have resettable limit stats. Many
Components can be reached simply by removing 4
Allen screws securing the cup warmer tray to access
the internals of the machine. Inside, is a high quality
traditional copper pipe and brazed fitting construction.
With AISI 316 L low corrosion steel steam and brew
boilers. A drain plug allows easy draining of the steam
boiler if required.
Boiler Insulation is, good quality an excellent fit and
extremely effective
THE TOUCH SCREEN – ON THE PROTOTYPE
This touch screen is identical to the
ones that will be on the production
machines. However the sensitivity is
being increased and the programming
altered slightly. Although I have no
trouble operating it...apparently other
thicker skinned individuals than me may
find it a little unresponsive.
TOUCH SCREE N OPERATION
This gives a simple clean look
and allows a lot of complex
functions to be easily controlled
and referenced
All necessary information is
clearly displayed and the
displays small size means it does
not dominate the front of the
machine/
Different colour combinations
can be chosen to suit all users .
Paolo initially talked about adding full
colour displays and higher definition,
but I think, less is better so it can use
a proven touchpad. You can change
the contrast and basic colour schemes,
even reverse contrast. I tried green for a
while, then blue, perhaps purple or red
next week. With the ability to raise and
lower contrast there are lots of ways to
customise the on state and off state
schemes, a few are shown on the right
(it's a bit difficult to photograph and for
some schemes I should have adjusted
the contrast).
Information is clearly displayed and the
touchpad is small enough not to be
obtrusive. I have my machine working
on automatic on/off each day. It has
worked flawlessly and the touch pad is
also always on if the machine is
switched on by the main switch, even if
it's in standby. It's especially useful and
safe too, you will always know there is
power to the machine. It is actually
possible to have an "off state" where the
touchpad is not illuminated (or doesn't
appear to be), but I would not
recommend using it. I considered
asking for it to be programmatically
removed, but decided, we're not a
nanny state and you may have valid
reasons for wanting the touchpad to go
dark when it's switched off (e.g. late at
night).
The touch zones for all the functions are
fairly large, so it's pretty easy to learn
and easy to operate without pressing
the wrong function. Even those with big
sausage fingers won't have any trouble.
I also love the look of an uncluttered
front to the machine. Two LED lights
for boiler heating and the flat Touch
screen, nothing else.
KEY FEATURES OF THE VESUVIUS – WHY IS IT SPECIAL
PRESSURE PROFILE GRAPHS
To make this easy I will describe features that
exist on the prototype and also will be in the
production machines. Where a feature is a
significant change from what currently exists, or
not on the prototype it will be in blue text
The profile graphs show an
approximation of the prototype
machines pressure graphs. I
have only 5 stages, the retail
machines will have 7. The
graphs are a small example of
the many variations that can be
I won't talk about the "Dealer Units" at all, because my
personal view is they will either be sold as a discount
as an intermediate machine, or be re-engineered.
•
Last Shot Protection, when tanked, the
machine will ALWAYS complete the last
shot, before registering a low water state
•
Capacitive touch screen - control of
functions using a graphical and text
display, programmable colours and
contrast
I think these key features important and even if you
never thought about them before, they are important
to you as well.. The machines computer allows for
control over so many functions, I would probably
never be able to remember them all! Please note, the
Prototype does not have all these functions, but
the retail production units will have them.
achieved.
KEY FUNCTIONAL FEATURES
The last chart shows what
•
Pressure Profiling - ability to create and
store profiles. 5 profiles and 5 stages for
each in the prototype. Each stage has it's
own duration in seconds and pressure
setting. The number of stages in each
profile will be increased to 7 on
production machines
•
Programmable Pump acceleration (rate
of pressure change), fully controllable from
0 to full speed in 600 incremental steps
•
User programmable PID pump pressure
control, to improve stability under custom
pressure and acceleration conditions, or
with different Gicleur sizes
•
Dual Boiler with Dual loop PID control of
brew and steam boilers (independent
programmable algorithms, specifically
suitable for each boiler system)
•
Commercial control systems & Touch
screen control of major and advanced
functions
•
Mechanical Switches for Power ON/OFF
and Mains Water On/Off, gives total
guaranteed isolation of these critical
functions from the main computer.
•
Total Brew Boiler Isolation from preheat
system (computer controlled
electromechanical system), to prevent
thermal bleed
•
The ability to have the preheat disabled
even if the steam boiler is on, controlled
from touch screen (advanced menu)
•
Steam boiler can be switched On/Off via
Touch screen and provides preheat
(unless disabled) when on. (fast access
menu)
•
Capacitive sensor for water tank level,
very reliable and not dependent on ion
concentration, less reliable mechanical
spring platforms, or hall effect magnetic
float switches
happens if the pre-infusion
chamber within the group is left
operational and is why it's
disabled.
A TOOLKIT OF OPTIONS
You can make your profiles as
complex or as simple as you
like. You might have favourite
profiles for certain coffees, or
perhaps certain grind levels.
Maybe you prefer a super long
pre-infusion stage. Great
temperature control is that
final tweak, and in conjunction
with pressure profiling can give a
further level of complexity to add
to the cup. It's all about
customising the settings to
obtain an espresso shot just
the way you like it and saved
profiles make it repeatable.
The Vesuvius is currently the
only prosumer machine that can
deliver this!
reducers unnecessary. This allows the pump
to offer pre-infusion at lower than normal
mains pressure (2 bar minimum). Water mains
pressure is usually more than 2 bar and can
fluctuate. You do have to keep the water tank
clean, but it's a better system for a pressure
profiling machine.
KEY MECHANICAL FEATURES
This is the stuff you don't see and often don't get told
about. I have made it my business not only to find out,
but also to press for improvements wherever possible.
•
STEEL BOILERS
They are currently investigating
whether the boiler walls can be
upgraded to 2.5mm steel but
because 316L steel is so hard it,
•
Both boilers are AISI 316L low carbon and
extremely strong and corrosion resistant steel .
•
High quality extended life Steel boilers
2mm thick! (and 8mm thick end plates).
Steel boilers are often less than 1mm, rarely
more than1.5mm. The Vesuvius steel boilers
are from 50-150% thicker than usually found
on other prosumer espresso machines with
steel boilers. It would have been cheaper to
have used copper boilers!
may not be possible to form the
boiler at the smaller diameters..
NO THREAD LOCKER
I asked about this and was told
•
Teflon tape is used, to make
maintenance easy. They, like
me, dislike thread locker. This
means if you have to undo a
The case is AISI 304 grade steel (18/8), in
some places it's very thick. Many of the frames
structural elements and front panel are approx
2mm thick. This allows for great structural
strength without excess weight. A thick mild
steel frame would have been a lot cheaper, but
not as good.
The front Panel is not only 2mm thick, but
will also be reinforced with another 2mm
thick plate that will run behind almost the entire
front of the machine, and well secured (more
about this later).
•
Anti flood timeout on main water solenoid.
It runs normally closed and opens only to refill
tank. If there is a problem with the tank sensor.
It will close after a user programmable timeout
period, or if the mains power fails during filling.
•
Gear Pump System (4 mm gears), Long life
FG304 Mag drive brushless 24V DC motor
•
Commercial main board, this board has been
in commercial use for more than 5 years and is
a proven product.
•
Easy access to all components of the
machine. Access ports below to facilitate easy
changing of boiler heating elements. Drain
plug on steam boiler.
•
Commercial grade toggle valves for steam
and hot water
•
E61 group with modified internal cam
profile and valves to function properly with
variable pressure pumps.
•
Extra thick gasket between group and front
panel to minimise heat transfer speed
across an extremely thick front panel. 2mm is
selected as the minimum required without
looking aesthetically bad.
•
Expansion Valve and vacuum breaker drain
into drip tray. Safety valve has vent tube to
water tank, ensuring hygienic and safe
venting in any overpressure situation, prevents
damage to internal electronics
•
All Solenoids in a normally non energised
state for general machine running (even when
plumbed). This avoids irritating buzzing, or
noise due to shading coil failure
•
HX preheat system specifically designed
for dual boiler preheat with specially reduced
32ml capacity.
•
•
Commercial grade valve system for brew,
steam boiler auto-fill, expansion valve and
one way valves. This assembly also contains
the pressure transducer
Plenty of space inside for efficient
maintenance access and good airflow around
components. More sensitive components can
be mounted well away from hot areas
•
•
Pressure managed via pressure transducer
at rear of group assembly
Commercial valve manifold system behind
group to ensure reliable operation.
•
•
Pre-infusion valve disabled in group as not
required. Parts will be supplied enabling
customers to enable pre-infusion valve should
they wish to do this for any reason.
Combined vacuum breaker and safety
valve
•
Water tank behind hinged side panel, so
cups do not have to be removed from cup
warmer to refill water
•
O-rings instead of hard Teflon gaskets on
heating elements, less chance of leaks and
minimum torque required to fit and remove.
•
Improved Boiler & pump support (extra "in
transit" protection)
•
Water wand shortened and position of steam
and water wands reversed
fitting in 5 years time, you will
be able to do it easily!
•
•
Preheat system which works from steam
boiler. However the steam boiler can work at
pressures up to 1.7 bar (I recommend 1.4 to
1.5). This preheat can be disabled if running
at very high pressures and temperatures.
There is also full electro mechanical isolation
of the water pathway to prevent heat bleed.
The preheat path, is only opened when a
shot commences
The pump always draws from the tank, even
if the machine is plumbed in making pressure
KEY CONVENIENCE FEATURES
ECO MODE
How many times have you
forgotten to switch off the steam
boiler. With Eco mode it's no
To make this easy I have decided to describe features
that exist on the prototype and also will be in the
production machines. Where a feature is a significant
change from what currently exists, or not on the
prototype it will be in blue text
•
Touch screen display (capacitive) to control
all functions, with the exception of full power
off and mains water/tank selection
•
Real Time Clock, maintains time and day
setting even when machine switched off or
unplugged
longer a problem. Set it and
forget it.
after a number of minutes
•
Timed shot, or ended early by lifting the
brew lever
•
Tank water level low warning display
changes colour (user configurable) and informs
of low water state
•
On/Off timer 2 on/off settings per day, for
each day of the week
•
ECO mode, can operate on both boilers or
just the steam boiler. This will automatically
drop the temperature to a user configurable 099C from whatever preset value exists
maintained to a temperature you
have set e.g. 60C (configurable).
This keeps the machine cool,
uses minimal power and ensures
your always ready to steam in
•
Part of ECO mode, machine will also go
into standby if unused for n hours (user
configurable). A setting of 0 disables this
function
•
Brew temperature easily set from fast
access menu on touch screen, continual
display of brew temperature selected
minutes.
SET AND FORGET
The design philosophy has been
to have features you can set and
•
forget. These features are in the
advanced menu and will rarely
•
Steam boiler temperature controlled from
advanced menu via touch screen, continual
display of steam pressure and steam boiler
temperature on touch screen.
•
Dealer Name and phone number stored in
advanced menu
•
Number of shots recorded (actually brew
lever activations)
have to be accessed. Commonly
used features will be on the main
menu and simple to use.
Pressure profile selection from fast access
menu on touch screen. continual display of
pressure profile selected
•
Display colour and normal or reverse
contrast can be configured as can contrast
level. These colours can be different for on vs.
standby.
•
Anti flood protection timer user configurable
(if mains plumbed)
•
Adjustable probe sensitivity to control the
way the auto-fill fills the steam boiler. Low,
med and high to more or less water to be
drawn (or steam to be made) before the steam
boiler auto-fill function is reactivated
Drip tray made 15mm longer - it just needed
to be a little bit longer, to stop splashes.
Weight
Dimensions
Brew boiler
Automatic shot timer in display
temperature will reduce and be
•
KEY STATS (OF PRODUCTION MACHINE)
•
steam and brew) boiler
Simultaneous boiler operation or Brew
Boiler priority
There could be some more features I have forgotten, and
it's either because they are not very important or not
something worth playing with. Or...I've simply just
forgotten.
When you leave the machine,
(configurable). The steam (or
•
Steam boiler
Max Pressure
Total Power Draw max
Pump & Motor
Water Tank Level
Sensing
Water tank Capacity
Drip tray capacity
Depth of drip tray has
increased by 15mm, so
machines overall size
is 15mm deeper than
prototype.
Insulation
Useful Hot water draw
Transformer
Low water alarm
2 LEDs
Feet
Steam and hot water
wands
Portafilters
Filter baskets
Plumbed or tanked
operation
Heavy approx 24kg
415H x 368W x 510D
0.8l - 1000W AISI 316L
stainless steel 2mm thick
(8mm end plates)
1.5l - 1400W AISI 316L
stainless steel 2mm thick
(8mm end plates)
12.5 bar E61 brew group
limitation
2.5Kw
FG304 gear pump motor
unit, brushless, 24V DC
(4mm gears)
Capacitive
3l
1.7l (can be drained)
Both boilers
1000ml +/- 200 ml (dead
draw with machine
switched off is 940ml)
24V 110W, commercial
unit.
Visual only
Steam boiler and Brew
boiler heating.
Metal & rubber (anti
shock), height adjustable.
2 sets of pads supplied
to reduce scratching or
increase grip
Ball joint no burn. Steam
on left, water on right
2, 1 single and 1 double
spout
1 single, 1 double, 1 blind
Pipes and drain hoses
supplied, drip tray has
drain facility
USING THE VESUVIUS
achieved and each time step
The Vesuvius is a twin boiler machine, so the usual
surfing and cooling flushes required with an HX
machine are unnecessary. The Vesuvius maintains
the brew boiler at the optimum temperature (whatever
you decide to set) for espresso extraction. Although
some people do not do any flushing I always like to
flush 25 ml before the first shot in a series, I call it a
stabilization flush and it ensures I start from the same
point each time.
can be up to 99s long. With 7
PRESSURE PROFILING
PRESSURE PROFILING
This is only a little about
pressure profiles. Some quite
complex profiles can be
stages in the production
machines, the granularity is there
to create any profile you want.
WHY USE A VARIABLE SPEED
GEAR PUMP
Some machines use a valve in
the group to try and create
pressure variances, but they
still use a standard rotary
pump.
This is a huge area that I have only partly explored
during my 3 months of testing on the prototype. It's
something I still expect to be experimenting with for
months to come. Especially as the production
machines will have 7 profiles and I would hope to
update the software on the prototype.
It's not just the raw pressure settings and durations of
each stage, but also the way in which that pressure
changes. For example I may have a profile with the
following stages for the shot (note: the cumulative
shot time is not a program value, I have added only
for clarity):
Cumulative
Time (s)
Pressure in
shot time
Bar
8
8
2
15
7
11
21
6
9
27
6
8
32
5
6
This approach has a few
disadvantages. The static
pressures are unchanged, the
Dynamic pressures vary, as the
Now with the global pump acceleration parameter set
to maximum, these pressure changes will happen
very fast and it will quickly ramp from one pressure to
another. Of course this gives increased duration of
each pressure phase at it's maximum pre set
pressure.
pressures equalise, it becomes
difficult to control pressure. The
rotary pump usually has to be set
to 9 bar, limiting the maximum
pressure you can use. Lastly, it's
all manual and not easily
repeatable.
A proper pressure profiling pump
such as the FG304 with PID
control, or similar type unit is the
correct way. Computer control
and saved profiles make the
results repeatable.
Reducing pump acceleration to much lower levels
(which is how I have it set). Gives a more gradual
pressure transition and of course slightly less time at
the preset pressure phases. I prefer this, but this is
what my taste likes, it may be different for you. The
production machine profiles will each have 7 and not
5 phases, but of course you do not have to use all 7
phases, in the same way I don't have to use all 5. in
the example below only 3 of the 5 phases are used
Cumulative
shot time
10
32
36
Time (s)
10
22
9
0
0
Pressure in
Bar
2
9
7
0
0
There is one final parameter and this is the PID
control of the pump. It's a little to complex to go into
here, but it can give the advanced user the ability to
have fairly fast pump acceleration...but slow down the
final parts of those pressure transitions...introducing a
slow down at a variable point before the preset
pressure is reached. This is advanced stuff...does it
make a difference. I'm not sure. I think it will enable
fast accelerations with a slow down to the pressure
preset that allows a sort of fudge, a trick if you like to
actually introduce variable acceleration into the later
parts of each pressure stage. Of course there is a
point at which you can introduce too much pump
instability.
For most people, initially they will probably use a few
presets they find on the web and invent their own.
Perhaps play with pump acceleration (highly
recommended), until they get comfortable with the
profiles they have set and like...It's fair to say some
interesting experimentation awaits them. Our taste is
personal to us and people will find the settings that
work for them. Perhaps they like ristrettos, dark roasts,
or light ones, single baskets, certain coffees....all can
be enhanced using different profiles.
e.g. say you have a coffee that has to be ground quite
fine and gets a little problematic with extraction
breaking up later in the shot....but you like the flavours
a particular grind level and length of shot produces,
You might try a profile like this
Cumulative
Time (s)
shot time
8
8
16
8
24
8
32
8
35
3
Pump Acceleration = 200 or 300
Pressure in
Bar
2
9
8
7
4
PID BREW TEMPERATURE CONTROL
Nothing much to say here, it works in the same way as
PIDs on other machines, it uses the processing power
and algorithms of a commercial main board to do this,
so it works at least as well as the normal Gicar
prosumer PID units. Each of the PID algorithms and
controls, is of course, fully independent allowing
different algorithms for steam and brew boilers.
The boiler sizing, pipe lengths and E61 group all gives
excellent thermal stability and a reproducible shot. A
1000W brew boiler heating element gives quick boiler
recovery and the preheat system (if enabled and the
steam boiler is on), gives good capacity. I'm not going
to really talk much more about it, because it meets or
exceeds what other top class dual boiler machines of
this type are capable of. The superb quality steel
boilers, are of course "no taste".
The one little change from the prototype to the
production models, is moving the incoming water entry
point to the centre of the brew boiler. This allows a the
PID to respond in a more accurate and improved way.
It's a small change that does not change anything in
the cup...but allows more accurate PID tuning.
USING THE VESUVIUS (CONT)
STEAMING AND HOT WATER
PRE-HEAT ON OR OFF YOUR
CHOICE
(PATENT PENDING)
Another new feature. We al know
preheat systems are a
compromise. A single size of
heat exchanger can't be right for
all situations, or ambient
temperatures. With insulated
brew boilers it's important not to
overheat them.
The steaming power of the Vesuvius is excellent, my
prototype only has a 1300W steam boiler heating
element, production machines will have 1400W
elements. Even so, the steaming power of my
machine is extremely good. The ability to run the
boiler at 1.4 or 1.5 bar+ with no fear of overheating
anything is partly responsible, as is the decent fill level
and PID implementation. It has a 3 hole steam tip (no
burn arm) and is really fast to steam. Production
machines will be even faster.
The speed a machine steams at and the minimum
steam pressures maintained, really do contribute to
better microfoam and sweetness in milk...you will
have no problems in this department with the
Vesuvius.
The steam boiler being steel means it's no taste, so I
suppose I could also use the machine for hot water,
but you may have noticed an on demand water
system next to my Vesuvius and it's this I use for my
hot water.
THE E61 GROUP
The preheat system is tuned to
normal steam boiler pressures of
1.3 to 1.4 bar, but if you want to
run the steam boiler really hot
e.g. 1.7 bar for faster steaming,
you can. No fear of overheating
the brew boiler, simply switch
the preheat system off!
LAST SHOT PROTECTION
(LSP)
How annoying is it to have that
perfect double shot ruined, just
because the internal water tank
is low on water?
With the Vesuvius (LSP), just
ensures it's never going to
happen again.
I have a tremendous level of admiration for this
particular group. I know it was invented in the 60s, it's
old technology blah,blah blah...but it has an elegance,
simplicity and adaptability of design that is truly
astounding.
It works so well for dual boiler machines, one might be
forgiven for thinking that it's designer had them in
mind when he came up with the E61. Big lump of
chromed brass, massive thermal stability, not through
any electronic trickery, heating element or other
doodads. Just simply through sheer mass, it's stable!
Of course it was never made for pressure profiling
machines, this is reinforced by the fact that it has
a preinfusion chamber...totally unnecessary with
an advanced pressure profiling pump. But again
the robust design continues to delight me. Fortunately
for the Vesuvius we had a direct line through to the
group manufacturer. I wanted the valve pins altered
slightly and the cam recut, Paolo and I discussed it
and the E61 group manufacturer delivered the revised
parts we wanted. It was great being able to talk to
them and get them to understand how we were using
the group. It needed to be stable under higher than
usual and rapidly changing pressures. Once we
had this stability in place, I was able to disable the
preinfusion system in the E61...the last step to pure
pressure profiling control by the computer, with no
mechanical interference. I find it quite amazing that
the E61 group design was well able to support this.
Maintaining the E61 is easy, the shower screen drops
down easy for cleaning, backflushing with cleaner
keeps the valves clean. It can be re lubricated in
minutes, fully rebuilt in 15 minutes, without even
removing it from the machine! There is very little to go
wrong and what does go wrong is cheap and easy to
put right.....It looks really good too.
Standard portafilters, accessories, group gaskets all
make the E61 a great choice.
M AINTENANCE
This is an area that might worry some people. "This is a
complicated machine and it's going to be difficult to
maintain isn't it"?
The answer is yes, it is complicated and simple all at
the same time. A computer is complicated, but if a disk
drive fails, you replace it, if a graphics card fails you
replace it, if a power supply fails, you replace it. The
Vesuvius is no different. What the Vesuvius can do is
complicated, but maintaining it is simple. This is
because:
•
Most parts are commercial components and
freely available
•
Most parts are standard components
wherever possible
•
The programming is customised (but by the
company that built these commercial
components)
•
Proven Companies Like Gicar , Fluid-O-Tech & MATER
The components for the machine can easily be
obtained and easily replaced. There is exceptionally
easy access, within a case that is not cramped at all.
The mother board and the Pump/Motor unit are
expensive parts, but are of commercial grade have
been proven in the field for years. These parts should
give long and reliable service. The gear pump is used
in medical applications as well as the beverage
industry and the manufacturer states they are "long life
components"
The high quality steel boilers are extremely thick and
they may even add another 0.5mm in the final
production models if the forming process can handle it.
The steel is highly corrosion resistant as is the steel HX
unit in the steam boiler. It would have actually been
cheaper to have used standard copper boilers (about
60% cheaper).
I also like using the E61, I've never liked press button
shots and volumetric proportioning control. I like the
fact that a shot is timed and stops at the end of the
programmed time, but I like it even better that I can
simply lift the lever at any time and stop the shot.
PROTOTYPE TO PRODUCTION MACHINE - SOME EXAMPLES
It's interesting to understand a little more about the way
the production machine has evolved and some of the
thinking behind a process which has taken 100s more
man hours. A few anecdotal examples follow
the changes are the commercial company who make
the board and:
GENESIS
LEARNING FROM THE
EXPERIENCE OF THE PAST
Over the last 8 years I have
tested and reviewed many
different espresso machines. I
have seen good and bad ideas. I
have also been fortunate to have
been involved in the design of a
few dual boiler machines. It was
great to be able to bring all that
experience into the second stage
design process of the Vesuvius
and cherry pick some of the best
ideas.
Most manufacturers designers
do not have an extensive photo
archive, or experience of so
many different machines
stretching back over more than 8
years
The Vesuvius idea, I'm not totally sure when it started,
but I think it would be about 18 months ago. I'd been
waiting for the collaboration between Antonio and Paolo
to throw up a new machine and a file was sent to me with
a virtual 3D model of a machine and was expecting a
normal Dual boiler machine. The render I had been sent
also didn't look too good. I waited patiently for a LONG
time and still nothing. Finally I saw some new renderings,
which looked a lot better and finally got my hands on the
Vesuvius nearly 3 months ago.
My first thoughts were that it was a bit functional
looking, my wife liked it though (but what does she
know). At that time, I didn't really understand what I had
on the bench!
After I realised what I had, I wondered why they didn't
talk to me before moving the design from computer to
reality. I was told, but "it's got everything you have been
asking for over the years". In a sense that is true, there's
a lot on it I have been wanting. In fairness though I didn't
know too much about the FG304 pump unit as I had
been exploring other variable pressure units. However,
they made a great choice with the FG304!
I started the rapid deep dive review over the weekend. I
presented my report back to Bella Barista and
Ambiente&spresso on the Monday. I guess it wasn't
received fantastically well. As you can imagine I had
looked at their new baby and said "it needs work". I
suspect they felt it was pretty much ready for market and
just needed a quick look over and a few tweaks. We had
a conference call, where I explained what I thought, what
I liked, what I didn't like, what could be changed. Now
this is the point at which things can so easily go wrong
and for a few days it was tough. They probably didn't
trust me (who could blame them) , but fortunately a
similar situation had happened at Izzo with the Duetto.
Antonio and I turned that into a success, so fortunately, I
had some history and credibility with Antonio.
It is fortunate that Paolo is an immensely ingenious
and gifted designer, but very practical as well, with a
broad skill set. The only barrier left was the fact that I
don't speak Italian, but luckily Paolos English isn't too
bad and I suspect it's much better now! We keep a Skype
channel almost permanently open for text messaging.
SOFTWARE
We started with the software. The motherboard is a
professional board for a standard 3 group machine.
Pressure profiling has been added to this board as an
extra feature at Ambientes request, specifically for the
Vesuvius. This makes the core hardware, proven and
reliable. The prototype software was reasonable, but still
had some of those useless commercial things in it, such
as: Open days, service count, an eco mode that didn't
make any rational sense. I recommended some changes,
but these have been kept to a minimum. Gicar who do
•
•
•
•
•
The software isn't so easy to change
More change more chance of bugs
It's expensive to get changed
It's time consuming
It works pretty well at the moment
Even the reduced number of key changes I asked for
are very expensive.
One good thing though, there is unlikely to be any
software revisions of any consequence in future
machines. Even though the motherboards can have
the firmware upgraded (with a special kit), the
machine you purchase is not going to require
upgrading.
The question was explored of using an alternative
board and self programming. It would have been a lot
cheaper, but there were 2 issues
•
•
Proven Reliability
Time to market
For Ambients' first high value complex pressure
profiling machine, it was better to use a proven
professional solution and add the special pressure
profiling code.
STRUCTURAL & MECHANICAL
My pump made some noise as it explored the limits of
pressure performance and acrobatics. Oddly enough
it had been quiet for a long time until I moved it. I
found the cause, I had neglected to refit the one of
the front feet correctly (and screw it out properly),
this allowed excess vibration and created noise.
My machine is now quiet again and the production
units will be even quieter, because drip tray rack
fitment has been improved
Next the case came under scrutiny. Like the look
of it or not, it's very high quality and the front is a
complex and difficult shape to fabricate,
especially with such thick steel. There was a
finishing problem with the prototype, we traced it
back and it is now corrected at the manufacturers.
The side access to the tank has been improved and
better feet have been sourced..
Just how well a thing can work when you can talk to
such a skilled designer is unbelievable. Here is an
example. In Denmark they were concerned the group
moved/flexed the front panel (funnily enough it
wasn't for the reason everyone thought, but more
about that later). Now I was understandably
confused, because the panel was 2mm thick AISI 304
Stainless...which is much thicker than usual and
already had a little plate behind it. Paolo and I
discussed what was needed. 5 minutes later the cad
system image on the following page came through
Paolo: "how's this" 2mm thick.
prototype. However I didn't realise the final design
didn't have one, because they wanted it to "look
good". Normally this would not matter as much, most
machines have thin front panels. The Vesuvius has a
304 steel 2mm thick front panel, it's really stiff and acts
as a really good heat sink. This causes a small
temperature stability issue for the first 90m and the
group can move slightly. Unless the 2 surfaces are
100% flat, the panel is so strong it isn't going to
deform to accommodate to the group. No matter how
tight you make the 2 group bolts, you won't stop it
rocking up and down. A 2mm thick Teflon gasket,
corrects both issues!
INSTANT MESSAGING AND
CLOSE COLLABORATION
it's so much easier when you can
chew over ideas with the head
What about the strengthening plate I hear you say?
Well it's too late, because even though it's not the
problem, the people in Denmark wouldn't be able to
"unthink" what they saw. So it will still have the
strengthening plate and a group that is really firm!
designer directly. You can
explore concepts within minutes,
Me "needs to be bigger and go right across"
explore and change ideas. All
The specification is 2mm thick Teflon hard but not
completely stiff. The next day I got this:
within the computer. Then when
ready, the order for parts can be
done, or metal cut.
Mini tests of concept can be
scheduled and problems worked
out.
As far as I know, no other
espresso machine has had this
level of user feedback and
iterative design method.
A few minutes later the next cad system image came
through. Yes, I said that's exactly what we need. Minutes
later the specification was with the manufacturers, so that
when the new production order came through, the metal
would be cut correctly.
When we discussed the group variable pressure issues,
and this came through.
These are just a few small
Yes, it's the custom gasket being 3D printed by Paolo
ready to test for aesthetics, dimensionality and
performance, before the order goes to the
manufacturers. It was tested and a different type of
high insulation gasket made from many natural
materials will be used. It has the right thermal and
compression properties that Teflon did not have.
On my prototype, the spitting from the vacuum
breaker, and safety valve would vent into the case (as
normally happens). The expansion valve leads back to
the tank, so each time it switches on from cold, about
20ml of water goes down the tube and back to the
tank. I don't like this, other people don't like this. So we
chose a new combined vacuum breaker and safety
valve and routed the venting using Teflon pipe. The
safety valve vents to the water tank (safest if an
overpressure situation ever exists). The vacuum
breaker and expansion valve now vent to the drip tray.
examples of the process.
So detailed, with full technical information that it allowed
us to identify the issue and explain to the manufacturer,
the changes we needed to the valves and cam, that
same day!.
Another interesting one came up that started because of
a slight error of translation. Strangely enough it was
also 95% of the reason why the group appeared to
move/flex. It does cause other problems though. There
was no gasket between the group and front panel on the
PORTAFILTER AND KNOBS
Paolo sent me this
In the photos of the prototype, I used my standard
portafilter and the machine had the standard black knobs
on the toggle valves and group lever.
This is the emerging design for the portafilter
handles that will be on the production machines. The
wood will be a darker Cherry wood colour. Nice I
thought and immediately asked about the knobs. "They
will be all wood, the same colour said Paolo", "ah.. just
wood", I said, "yes" came the reply. I think he could tell I
was disappointed. Of course, cost is always going to be a
consideration....all wood for the knobs would be much
cheaper.
Guess what came through the next day?
The Brew lever knob will be the same design too. The
colour is more representative of the colour the portafilter
handle will be.
PHOTOS OF THE DEALER MACHINES - ONLY 1 STEP ON FROM
PROTOTYPE
FINAL THOUGHTS - IN THE CUP IT'S INCREDIBLE
INNOVATION
Finally, a machine that works
with you, not just 2 boilers, a
group and a pump.
QUALITY
Excellence in construction,
conception, components and
control systems.
TECHNOLOGY
21st century solutions using a
mix of proven technologies from
the last 50 years.
SIMPLICITY
You don't have to be an
espresso geek, your dealer will
I have tried to take you through the machine and it's
technical features. I have covered a small part of the
iterative design process. It makes a difference when
you can work directly with a designer like Paolo,
things can happen quickly and innovatively.
I perhaps have not captured the 100s of man hours
that have gone into turning what was thought to be a
"close to market" prototype to an excellent production
machine. In fairness the prototype would have been
good, with just a few changes. However this machine
deserves to aspire to excellence in every way.
The looks of the machine are always going to be
down to personal taste. Does it look good, I don't care
because it performs so well, it's for you to decide if
you like how it looks. For me other things really matter
a little more.
have set up the standard profiles
for you and will have many stock
profiles for you to choose from.
Simply select the profile you
want and lift the lever.
WHATS IN A NAME
The prototype was code named
the V9, the production machine
will be the Vesuvius V10.
There's nothing on the
machine, no logo, no
badge....not planned either. I
kind of like it!
•
Performance & capability
•
Convenience & practicality
•
Reliability & Maintainability
In the cup, which is really where is counts. The
results are astounding. If I am honest, I would not
have believed it could make such a difference. From
the first cup on those basic lever type profiles and
even at full pump acceleration, I was amazed at the
difference between espresso from this and from a
standard Dual boiler machine.
As an example, I want to tell you about an
accident that showed me just how powerful
profiling was. I accidentally chose a flat 9 bar profile,
the same as a standard machine. When I pulled the
shot, It only extracted about 15-20ml after 50 sec...it
had choked. I did another shot...same grind, same
bean, with a profile that had a long 10s 2 bar preinfusion, then 11 bar, 9 bar, 8 bar, 6 bar. In 35
seconds I had extracted 45ml, more than twice as
much. This means you can have a much, finer
grind, which of course affects flavour!
You have the ability to extract the shot to obtain the
best from every phase of the extraction, adjusting
pressure to glean the best, whilst leaving the worst.
What's different about levers a large commercial
spring lever group will often start the extraction at 11
or 12 bar and then it gradually tails off. However you
don't have the temperature control of a Dual boiler
pumped machine
The 9 bar 92-96C formula was for pump
machines which run at 9 bar, because that's the
best average. The E61 group is limited to a very
brief pre-infusion at 4 bar and then up to 9 bar until
end of shot. All we could do was have temperature
control, with dual boiler and PID management.
That's the compromise, until now!
The Vesuvius gives you the best of both worlds,
but it's more than that. We can explore espresso
with profiles and temperature management well
beyond the capabilities of both types of espresso
machine.
I believe extraction is related to grind, so different
pressure profiles can cater for different grind levels. I
also believe that different coffees extract differently
and different pressure profiles help get the best from
them. I've really only scratched the surface of what
can be done. I have found profiles I really like for
certain coffees and I am sure I will still be learning
and exploring in 6 months time. The important
thing is, people can alter all the parameters to
make the shot suit their taste and it's repeatable.
In this simple looking box is something
quite special...a single group machine
that is designed to work in a way no
other prosumer machine can. It gives
you full control over the espresso
production process in a unique,
convenient and repeatable way.

Closer Look Review

Transcription

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