An espresso machine is a type of coffee maker that uses pressure to force water through finely-ground coffee beans.
These machines usually come in two types: automatic and manual.
Automatic espresso machines are easier to use while manual machines offer more control over the brewing process.
No matter which type you choose all espresso machines require some basic ingredients: coffee grounds water and a brewer.
But what are they made of?
What materials are used in their construction?
Keep reading to find out!
What Materials Are Used for Assembly?
There are a few materials that commonly appear in the assembly of an espresso machine: metal (brass and steel) plastic and rubber.
The metal parts help produce pressure to extract the coffee’s flavor; the plastic helps with insulation and the rubber provides seals for steam and water.
What Materials Are Used for the Machine’s Construction?
Many espresso machines are made of stainless steel which is a durable and hygienic material that will last a long time.
Other common components include aluminum plastic brass copper nylon and rubber.
Aluminum makes a great surface for exterior panels as well as internal components as it is lightweight and strong without being too expensive.
Some machines have aluminum alloy exteriors that resist dents and scratches — a benefit for those who wish to travel with their machine.
The interior of your espresso machine will likely be made of food-grade stainless steel which ensures the machine is safe to use with food.
How Are Espresso Machines Powered?
Typically espresso machines are powered by electricity or butane gas though other options do exist.
For example one type of manual pump has a hand-crank mechanism that the user turns to create pressure inside the machine — no electricity required!
Of course the power source affects your machine’s energy consumption and the level of noise it produces.
How Are Espresso Machines Made?
To make an espresso machine manufacturers start with a base unit which contains the water tank and boiler.
The tank holds up to two liters — enough for about 40 shots of espresso — and the boiler heats up to 200 degrees Celsius (392 degrees Fahrenheit) making it ideal for creating rich flavorful coffee.
Liquid flows from the tank through a tube which leads to the machine’s group head.
The steam wand is connected to this part so stick around if you want to learn more about its amazing abilities.
The group head is where the real magic happens: it distributes water evenly over the coffee grounds then pushes the delicious espresso into your cup.
Meanwhile hot steam is produced to help dry out the wet coffee before they’re compressed together for maximum flavor.
This process takes just 20-30 seconds which gives you a fast piping hot cup of coffee.
Now that’s what we call a good morning pick-me-up!
What Does the Grouphead Do?
The group head is an important component in your machine: it distributes the water evenly over the coffee grounds before compressing them together to extract flavor and caffeine.
The machine’s portafilter locks into the group head and coffee grounds go inside of it.
A few pumps of the levers built into your machine results in a perfect shot of espresso — just 20 to 30 seconds later!
How Does Steam Power Work?
Your espresso machine has two boilers: one for the coffee and one for the steam.
The machine’s steaming wand can produce steam or water depending on what it needs to do.
For example when you activate the steamer before brewing espresso hot water is converted into steam inside of the boiler.
When heated up again this process produces even more steam than before since the boiler is already hot.
The powerful steam produced by your machine’s steamer has many uses.
Some machines have a frothing wand that can be used to create airy foam in your cappuccino or latte.
Other appliances — like kettles and teapots — rely on steam for cooking as well as heating up water.
What Is the Best Espresso Machine for You?
Now that you know what components go into an espresso machine it’s time to find one that fits your needs!
That means buying a machine with all of the features you want and need: steam wand portafilter and water tank are just a few examples.
Since you’re investing in something that’s going to be on your countertop make sure the machine has an attractive design as well.
You might want to look for customizable options like LED lights cup size or color options.
Check out the best espresso machines we’ve picked just for you after all the research so you don’t have to do it yourself.