Data logging and curve analysis

Key Concepts

• Data Logging Basics:

• Record critical parameters: charge temperature, bean temperature, environment temperature, rate of rise (RoR), and drum speed.

• Use digital roast software or spreadsheets to maintain accurate logs for each batch.

• Roast Curve Components:

• Bean Temperature Curve: Monitors internal temperature of coffee beans.

• Environmental Temperature Curve: Measures the air or drum temperature.

• Rate of Rise (RoR) Curve: Represents how quickly the bean temperature is increasing.

• Curve Interpretation:

• Identify turning points and critical moments like first crack and development phase.

• Detect RoR flicks, plateaus, or crashes that may indicate insufficient heat transfer or overcompensation.

• Trend Analysis:

• Compare curves from multiple batches to ensure consistency.

• Use curve overlays to evaluate repeatability and adjust profiles for specific bean origins or blends.

• Error Diagnosis:

• Recognize anomalies caused by equipment variability, operator error, or bean characteristics.

• Adjust charge temperature, airflow, or drum speed in response to curve behavior.

• Continuous Improvement:

• Maintain a reference library of successful roast curves for different beans.

• Update logs with sensory feedback to correlate data with taste outcomes.

Summary

Accurate data logging and thoughtful curve analysis allow roasters to fine-tune their processes, achieve consistent roast results, and troubleshoot potential issues effectively. Systematic tracking ensures that every batch aligns with the intended flavor profile.

• Tags:
• Key Concepts
• Flavor Profile
• Coffee Beans
• Heat Transfer
• Drum Speed
• Charge Temperature
• Fine Tune
• Continuous Improvement
• Rate Rise
• Bean Temperature
• Rise Ror
• Roast Curve
• Data Logging
• Airflow Drum
• Achieve Consistent
• Roast Curves
• Sensory Feedback
• Adjust Profiles
• Environmental Temperature
• Ensure Consistency
• Crack Development