Zeroing and burr touchpoint

What is Zeroing?

• Zeroing = finding the true reference point where the grinder’s burrs meet.
• Provides a baseline for grind adjustments.
• Different grinders (flat vs conical burrs) may have different calibration mechanisms.

Burr Touchpoint

• Definition: The point at which the two burrs make contact.
• Usually detected by a faint metallic sound when running grinder empty.
• Not used for grinding coffee, but as a reference mark.

Why It Matters

• Over time, burrs wear, shifting calibration.
• Factory markings often drift from reality.
• Without zeroing, settings are inconsistent across grinders or after maintenance.

How to Zero a Grinder

1. Empty Grinder: Ensure no beans remain.
2. Run Grinder Empty: Slowly close grind adjustment until faint burr contact is heard.
3. Mark Position: Record as the zero or “touchpoint.”
4. Back Off Slightly: Prevent burr damage by reopening to safe starting point.

Practical Tips

• Always use low RPM or manual turning to detect touchpoint safely.
• Conical burrs may have less distinct touch sounds; look for slight resistance.
• Mark zero point with tape or permanent marker for easy reference.

Using Zero in Workflow

• From zero, establish working ranges:
• Filter coffee: usually +6 to +10 clicks (depending on grinder).
• Espresso: closer to zero, +2 to +5 clicks.
• Reset after burr replacement to maintain accuracy.

Summary

Zeroing and burr touchpoint detection create a reliable baseline for grind settings. By identifying where burrs meet, baristas can calibrate grinders consistently, ensure repeatable recipes, and adjust effectively as burrs wear over time.

• Tags:
• Practical Tips
• Filter Coffee
• Zero Point
• Run Grinder
• Grind Settings
• Reference Point
• Grind Adjustment