Currently, gas is the fuel of choice for coffee roasters worldwide. With the growing desire for more sustainable coffee, we need to consider earth-friendly alternatives such as electric roasters. Why did we choose electric over gas? Discover the compelling benefits and the thought process that led to our decision.
Electric vs. gas roasters
Historically, coffee roasting relied heavily on the use of gas energy, regardless of the type of roaster used - whether drum or fluid bed. This process required strict vigilance over a number of variables, from roasting temperature to total roasting time.
Things changed, however, with the arrival of electric roasters. These machines have enabled more automation, which means less time is spent on roasting and more time can be spent on other aspects of the coffee business.
More control
In transitioning from gas-based to electric roasting, we were necessitated to comprehend the distinct operational mechanics. Primarily, the method of heat transfer varied significantly. Electric roasters offered us the autonomy to control the convective and conductive heat independently.
Some roasters are even equipped with a triple heat management system that controls convection, radiation and conduction independently. Being able to control parameters independently allows us to fine-tune roasting profiles and explore a wider range of possibilities.
Consistent results
Coffee roasting mastery isn't for the faint of heart. With the complexities and subtleties of traditional coffee roasters, mastering them feels like conquering a steep mountain, where achieving consistent results becomes a strenuous, time-consuming process. To operate a gas roaster, one must dedicate months, even years, to truly understanding its mechanisms and nuances. This immense time commitment often surpasses what coffee shop owners and industry professionals can reasonably accommodate.
Moreover, the learning process unfortunately results in wasted green coffee beans as initial roasts often fall short of quality standards. However, the solution lies in emerging technologies that make it significantly easier to maintain a consistent roasting curve. Consider the many roasters equipped with artificial intelligence, ready to adhere to your desired roasting curve.
Why electric roasters?
In our observations, the present-day consumer is attributing an increasing importance to the sustainability of coffee, desiring transparency, traceability, and environmentally friendly roasting techniques. Unfortunately, the usage of conventional gas-fired roasters has contributed to environmental damage through the emission of greenhouse gases and a dependence on fossil fuels.
The turning point
The most compelling advantage of electric roasters over gas models is their minimal impact on the environment. Currently, the coffee industry relies heavily on fossil fuels for roasting, contributing to global climate change - a growing concern for coffee growers worldwide.
Escalating costs associated with natural gas are compelling the coffee industry to seek more sustainable solutions. Electric roasters provide an excellent answer. They allow roasters to choose their power source, making it easier to switch to renewable energies, thereby ensuring the ongoing sustainability of coffee production.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the adoption of electric roasters marks a step towards a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly coffee industry. The control, consistency and reduced environmental impact offered by electric roasting technology present compelling reasons for roasters, like us, to embrace this alternative. As a result, we're ensuring a brighter future for both coffee and the planet.
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