A round filtration machine, usually constructed from chrome steel mesh or an identical permeable materials, measuring 51 millimeters in diameter. This implement is positioned atop the tamped espresso grounds inside an espresso machine portafilter previous to extraction. It acts as a barrier between the group head and the espresso puck. For instance, a barista may use this implement after tamping the espresso to make sure even water dispersion.
The implementation of this barrier presents a number of benefits through the espresso-making course of. It promotes a extra uniform saturation of the espresso grounds, probably lowering channeling and resulting in a extra balanced extraction. Additional, it aids in retaining the espresso machine’s group head cleaner by stopping espresso grounds from backflushing into it. Traditionally, such strategies aimed to enhance extraction consistency and gear upkeep have been employed in numerous types throughout the specialty espresso business.