Green Coffee Buying Club

Coffee Discussion boards => Hardware & Equipment => Topic started by: Monito on March 27, 2008, 03:37:00 PM

Title: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on March 27, 2008, 03:37:00 PM: Why not? since we had one for Latte and Espresso Machines, here is one for roasters.

I'll shine mine, just for you... :angel:

Go shine your babies...

Monito

P.S.
This roaster have been modified extensible the manufacturer most have copycat it from the San Franciscan, but the internals (not the metal parts those are good) were made of cheap materials. I added better Heating Elements (non-dangerous) Change the entire cabling for a better roast. The original seller told me that he was never able to get a good tasting roast with it (no wonder).

Also own a Rosto, iRoast and a TurboCrazy.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: milowebailey on March 27, 2008, 05:45:20 PM: Here is my little Sonofresco. It's a great little red machine

Milowebailey
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: bibletec on March 27, 2008, 07:27:07 PM: Have another post on this but why not put it in 2 ;D ;D ;D
Just got it!!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: BobTimo on March 27, 2008, 07:55:34 PM: Here's the most hitech machine in this forum ... can run w/o electricity! ;D

Got this from SM, paid an arm an a leg for shipping to Timbuktu. Improvised the crank coz I overloaded it against Tom's advice, so I overheated the plastic gears and thus stopped working. So now it's w/o gears, I have roasted up to a pound so far.

Bobby T.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: YasBean on March 27, 2008, 08:17:51 PM: Well, instead of posting here, why not check out the Mrs.'s blog here http://tw.myblog.yahoo.com/ya-bean/article?mid=615&prev=907&next=513&l=f&fid=35 (http://tw.myblog.yahoo.com/ya-bean/article?mid=615&prev=907&next=513&l=f&fid=35). It has the whole set-up.

Oh, no! What is that last picture doing there? How embarrassing. The doggy must have been playing with latte art, again. Bad doggy! :P
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: thejavaman on March 28, 2008, 04:35:10 AM: I might as well jump in on the action as well!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on March 28, 2008, 04:48:09 AM: Can you roast inside?

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: thejavaman on March 28, 2008, 04:57:05 AM: Quote from: Monito on March 28, 2008, 04:48:09 AM
Can you roast inside?

Monito

Oh yeah, it's basically smoke free (unless I want to take the max batch size, which is 3.3 lbs., to French roast - which I never do anyway). That was one of the main selling points for me. It's been a great little roaster for me so far. I've roasted over 1,000 lbs. on it since September of last year without as much as a hiccup (knock on wood).
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on March 28, 2008, 08:16:31 AM: Quote from: BobTimo on March 27, 2008, 07:55:34 PM
Here's the most hitech machine in this forum ... can run w/o electricity! ;D

Got this from SM, paid an arm an a leg for shipping to Timbuktu. Improvised the crank coz I overloaded it against Tom's advice, so I overheated the plastic gears and thus stopped working. So now it's w/o gears, I have roasted up to a pound so far.

Bobby T.
Are you in Mali for real?

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Stubbie on March 28, 2008, 08:30:06 AM: 2.5Kg Artigiano Electric Roaster. We get along pretty well and it will do 4#-4.5# of greens without any trouble.

I wish it did a better job on the 1/2# samples I get - still trying to dial that in, but the low bean mass in the drum makes it interesting. I still use the SC/CO for those most of the time.

-Stubbie
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: BobTimo on March 28, 2008, 08:41:32 AM: Quote from: Monito on March 28, 2008, 08:16:31 AM
Are you in Mali for real?
No Sir! But from where you are, I'm even farther than Timbuktu. :) I'm sure you've heard of Timbuktu, but I'm sure you haven't heard of the place called Iligan yet.

BobT
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on March 28, 2008, 10:51:38 AM: Quote from: BobTimo on March 28, 2008, 08:41:32 AM
Quote from: Monito on March 28, 2008, 08:16:31 AM
Are you in Mali for real?
No Sir! But from where you are, I'm even farther than Timbuktu. :) I'm sure you've heard of Timbuktu, but I'm sure you haven't heard of the place called Iligan yet.

BobT
Well, the only Iligan I know is in the Philippines. I don't see the relation between Iligan and Timbuktu...

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on March 28, 2008, 10:54:46 AM: Man ... I salute you guys.

I've only got a lowly Fresh Roast 8 +. It works well and is cheap.

Is it really worth spending $300.00 and above for a roaster?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on March 28, 2008, 10:55:35 AM: Quote from: Stubbie on March 28, 2008, 08:30:06 AM
2.5Kg Artigiano Electric Roaster. We get along pretty well and it will do 4#-4.5# of greens without any trouble.

I wish it did a better job on the 1/2# samples I get - still trying to dial that in, but the low bean mass in the drum makes it interesting. I still use the SC/CO for those most of the time.

-Stubbie
Good luck...I get 1st crack at around 365 F which is waaaaayyy too early on my book, normally 390-400 F depending on coffee.

I haven't tried it long enough...May be I'll play a little with it tonight.

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on March 28, 2008, 10:58:55 AM: Quote from: mp on March 28, 2008, 10:54:46 AM
Man ... I salute you guys.

I've only got a lowly Fresh Roast 8 +. It works well and is cheap.

Is it really worth spending $300.00 and above for a roaster?
I decided that I'll rather spend money in my coffee hobbie rather than lunches and going out drinking. I bet my friends at work have spent more money in drinks that I'll ever spend in coffee equipment. I'm saving for a commercial espresso... ;D

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on March 28, 2008, 11:12:08 AM: Quote from: Monito on March 28, 2008, 10:58:55 AM
I decided that I'll rather spend money in my coffee hobbie rather than lunches and going out drinking. I bet my friends at work have spent more money in drinks that I'll ever spend in coffee equipment. I'm saving for a commercial espresso... ;D
Monito

Good point.

I can truthfully say that I've had the best espresso at my place and not at any espresso bar even in Italy. This is more of a labour of love ... a passion ... that most would not pursue but love to be the recipients of.

So does that roaster make the coffee beans taste that much better than the Fresh Roast Plus 8?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on March 28, 2008, 11:32:11 AM: Quote from: mp on March 28, 2008, 11:12:08 AM
...snip...

So does that roaster make the coffee beans taste that much better than the Fresh Roast Plus 8?
I have roasted coffee in my Rosto, TurboCrazy, iRoast and other air roasters. I will admit that the drum roaster makes a big difference.

I bought this roaster because it was a good deal, otherwise I wouldn't have spend the money on it.

All that said, I came to prove today that Coffee Makers are as important.

I brewed some Yemen this morning at home in my Newco, it was awesome... :o
I went to work and brewed the same exact thing, and it was mediocre... ??? what a disappointment!!!

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on March 28, 2008, 12:16:03 PM: Quote from: Monito on March 28, 2008, 11:32:11 AM
I have roasted coffee in my Rosto, TurboCrazy, iRoast and other air roasters. I will admit that the drum roaster makes a big difference.
I bought this roaster because it was a good deal, otherwise I wouldn't have spend the money on it.
All that said, I came to prove today that Coffee Makers are as important.
I brewed some Yemen this morning at home in my Newco, it was awesome... :o
I went to work and brewed the same exact thing, and it was mediocre... ??? what a disappointment!!!
Monito

Why the disappointment? Was it the bean or was the roast off?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on March 28, 2008, 12:17:18 PM: Quote from: mp on March 28, 2008, 12:16:03 PM
Quote from: Monito on March 28, 2008, 11:32:11 AM
I have roasted coffee in my Rosto, TurboCrazy, iRoast and other air roasters. I will admit that the drum roaster makes a big difference.
I bought this roaster because it was a good deal, otherwise I wouldn't have spend the money on it.
All that said, I came to prove today that Coffee Makers are as important.
I brewed some Yemen this morning at home in my Newco, it was awesome... :o
I went to work and brewed the same exact thing, and it was mediocre... ??? what a disappointment!!!
Monito

Why the disappointment? Was it the bean or was the roast off?
The brewer...A regular Mr. Coffee...

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on March 28, 2008, 12:34:13 PM: Oh ... I see ... you do mostly drip? Ever do espresso?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: milowebailey on March 28, 2008, 04:30:39 PM: Montio

Is that baby made out of real gold? or just gold plated? ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: BobTimo on March 28, 2008, 06:21:50 PM: Quote from: Monito on March 28, 2008, 10:51:38 AM
Well, the only Iligan I know is in the Philippines. I don't see the relation between Iligan and Timbuktu...
How'd you get to know my hometown? It's just that it's so far from most people. :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on March 28, 2008, 06:24:08 PM: Quote from: milowebailey on March 28, 2008, 04:30:39 PM
Montio

Is that baby made out of real gold? or just gold plated? ;D
You like that...That is brass I shine it once a week!!!

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on March 28, 2008, 06:29:42 PM: Quote from: BobTimo on March 28, 2008, 06:21:50 PM
Quote from: Monito on March 28, 2008, 10:51:38 AM
Well, the only Iligan I know is in the Philippines. I don't see the relation between Iligan and Timbuktu...
How'd you get to know my hometown? It's just that it's so far from most people. :)
I know a lot o people from around the globe :angel:

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on March 28, 2008, 06:31:35 PM: Quote from: mp on March 28, 2008, 12:34:13 PM
Oh ... I see ... you do mostly drip? Ever do espresso?
Both, but mostly drip...
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: milowebailey on March 29, 2008, 08:14:15 AM: Quote from: Monito on March 28, 2008, 06:24:08 PM

You like that...That is brass I shine it once a week!!!

Monito
Yes I do, reminds me of when I was in NYC and all the hotels had their brass fire hose connections polished... they did it every day.

Sweet looking roaster.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: BobTimo on March 29, 2008, 03:38:00 PM: Quote from: mp on March 28, 2008, 10:54:46 AM
I've only got a lowly Fresh Roast 8 +. It works well and is cheap.
Is it really worth spending $300.00 and above for a roaster?
I started with the FR+8. But it roasts too small a batch I had to roast at least once a day. Maybe mine was a bad unit, the thermal fuse gets busted maybe 2x a month, and the beans become charcoal in maybe 5mins max, such that I was roasting in 2-3 mins. Too expensive to send it back for repair/replacement. I regretted spending $90 on that one. Now very happy with the cheapo Whirley Pop popcorn maker, which can roast a lb. And I can use it in succession, with no problem of busted fuses.

BobT
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on March 29, 2008, 04:29:02 PM: Quote from: BobTimo on March 29, 2008, 03:38:00 PM
I started with the FR+8. But it roasts too small a batch I had to roast at least once a day. Maybe mine was a bad unit, the thermal fuse gets busted maybe 2x a month, and the beans become charcoal in maybe 5mins max, such that I was roasting in 2-3 mins. Too expensive to send it back for repair/replacement. I regretted spending $90 on that one. Now very happy with the cheapo Whirley Pop popcorn maker, which can roast a lb. And I can use it in succession, with no problem of busted fuses.

BobT
That is interesting Bob ... I've had mine for a year and a half. Never a problem with it. It does take me dark in 4 1/2 minutes but coffee is good. From what I understand the drum roasters make the coffee taste sweeter. That is good if you are brewing espresso.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on March 30, 2008, 11:51:06 AM: Quote from: bibletec on March 27, 2008, 07:27:07 PM
Have another post on this but why not put it in 2 ;D ;D ;D
Just got it!!

Have you roasted with it yet?

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: bibletec on March 30, 2008, 08:22:27 PM: No I'm waiting on the manuals and other parts to arrive. I will be going over to Shep's place because he has this same roaster and has volunteered to help me learn. I can't wait to get started!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Hananonn on March 30, 2008, 11:18:58 PM: do' know if mine can match the $$$ spent but it sure gives me 5lb of mostly even roasts.
made it meself and me very proud. :wav:
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Hananonn on April 01, 2008, 11:58:18 PM: Quote from: kwksilver on March 31, 2008, 11:18:41 PM
You mentioned that drum on the package you sent me:p

That looks great indeed. Even better than the one I've seen on Sweet maria's franken-thingy (I am sure that pages is old news to all of you)
Any plans on offering to make this for members?
I am quite intrigued. Never would I admit I couldn't make that, but to say your execution seems very nice and I would love to roast with it!

Awesome!

Felix
It will be my pleasure, just say the word-pm me.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: peter on April 02, 2008, 08:58:54 AM: Hanan,

Perhaps it would be kosher to put a thread in the Buy-Sell forum to showcase your drum, and make it a sticky. If you're selling this thing of rare beauty, us brothers of the bean should be the first to know about it.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: nimbus on April 02, 2008, 10:06:14 PM: I have some more "proper" pix, but I think ya'll have seen it already. Here's an early "action" shot...

(http://raysmonkeyhouse.com/images/4.jpg)

Probat L12
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: BoldJava on April 03, 2008, 03:03:21 AM: Quote from: nimbus on April 02, 2008, 10:06:14 PM
I have some more "proper" pix, but I think ya'll have seen it already. Here's an early "action" shot...

Probat L12

Probat L12...I was at a local roaster recently and they are in the process of setting up a Probat that roasts 90 kilos. Let's see, 200 lbs of coffee at $2.50 a pound. Just remembering some of my finer 'pooched' roasts as I learned machines. Yow-zir...expensive learning lessons on that machine.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: kwksilver on April 03, 2008, 01:46:59 PM: Well since you guys kindly helped me with the temp cutoff on this guy, and since that sparked the making of this ultra cheap frankenstein.
I am obliged to show her off.

Felix
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Joe on April 03, 2008, 01:55:20 PM: Quote from: nimbus on April 02, 2008, 10:06:14 PM
I have some more "proper" pix, but I think ya'll have seen it already. Here's an early "action" shot...

Probat L12

Nice!!! I love Probats, something about the cast Iron Drum just makes sense.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: tlohrey on April 04, 2008, 04:43:04 PM: [DROOL MODE ON]
man oh man.....what the heck am I doing here on this site? There's some SERIOUS roasting going on here......
[DROOL MODE OFF]

My humble setup (SC/TO)

Terry
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on April 04, 2008, 08:45:47 PM: Quote from: tlohrey on April 04, 2008, 04:43:04 PM
[DROOL MODE ON]
man oh man.....what the heck am I doing here on this site? There's some SERIOUS roasting going on here......
[DROOL MODE OFF]

My humble setup (SC/TO)

Terry
I have that identical roaster, but has never been able to roast that even...nice!!!

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on April 04, 2008, 09:13:45 PM: Quote from: tlohrey on April 04, 2008, 04:43:04 PM
[DROOL MODE ON]
man oh man.....what the heck am I doing here on this site? There's some SERIOUS roasting going on here......
[DROOL MODE OFF]
My humble setup (SC/TO)
Terry

That looks like it can roast a pound or two ... how much is she worth?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: tlohrey on April 05, 2008, 05:23:38 AM: Thanks, Monito...(Brazilian....always seems to roast evenly for me)

mp-can do a lb, but 12-14 oz seems to be the "sweet spot". Built from all new components for ~$85

I'd be willing to trade for the Probat.....even steven (although I don't think I could afford the shipping....damn)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: peter on April 05, 2008, 07:52:55 AM: Many of you have seen my roasting station, but for the new guys, here it is:

http://peter4jc.googlepages.com/ (http://peter4jc.googlepages.com/)

A few things have changed, like a new bean cooler, but the roasters have been the same for 3 years. The take a lickin' and keep on tickin'. 50#'s/month in '05, 60 in '06, 73/mo. in '07. No issues, no complaints.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: tlohrey on April 05, 2008, 10:25:40 AM: nice, peter...I'm intrigued by that adjustable 'woz' heat regulator....50-70# a month? Holy smokes !!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: grinderz on April 07, 2008, 04:51:51 PM: Hey Peter, thanks for posting your roasting setup. Is there a fan up there in your ventilation cabinet that isn't shown in the pics? Your bean cooler has sparked some ideas that I can't wait to try out. I'm off to buy a plastic tub and a sheet of plywood!!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: peter on April 07, 2008, 06:33:04 PM: Yes, grinderz, there's a fan. Actually, those pics were taken when the station was located next to my chimney, and had one 6" duct booster fan stuck in the hole where the old oil furnace used to be ducted. I've since had to relocate the station. Now it uses the same duct booster fan to blow up a 6" duct that runs through a closet on the first floor and into the attic where a 2nd duct booster fan helps out by pulling smoke up.

You can find the fans at Home Depot for ~$26.

If I were computer saavy enough, I'd post the drawing for my new cooler. All it is is a box 12"w x 20"l x 30"h, with an angled baffle. An 8" fan that can be bought anywhere sits on the bottom of the box w/ the round part of the fan stuck in an 8" hole in the baffle, blowing out the front of the box, which is cut away and replace w/ window screen. What I like best about the cooler is its simplicity, and $12 overall cost.

If somebody can give me a clue as to how to draw and post the above ramble, let me know so I can start a new thread and not hijack this one further.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on April 08, 2008, 06:17:56 AM: Here is my iRoast which I use as a sample roaster, look at the thermometer, it is a stainless steel rod that touches the beans. For consistency I always drop the beans at the exact temperature.

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Joe on April 11, 2008, 09:10:11 PM: pic 1. My sonofresco roasting Yemen Sanani a little darker than I wanted.

pic 2. The Sample roaster a 1400w (Pac-Man) Popcorn Pumper with custom PID built to CPL593h specs.

Pic 3. My recent PID build for Chad based on afore mentioned CPL593h spec
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: milowebailey on April 12, 2008, 08:20:56 AM: Joe

Do you vent your sonofresco? Or just breath all that smoke? ;D

I can't tell in the photo.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Joe on April 12, 2008, 08:50:24 AM: Quote from: milowebailey on April 12, 2008, 08:20:56 AM
Joe

Do you vent your sonofresco? Or just breath all that smoke? ;D

I can't tell in the photo.

that's pretty much the front of my Garage so I open the garage door and the fumes go outside for the most part. a small amount remains in the garage but as you know the best part about the sonofresco is th ability to step a few steps and be out side while everything is running on its own. I used to vent it, but I got tired of dealing with the dryer vents and cleaning the opening of all the collected resins.

Joe
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: milowebailey on April 12, 2008, 09:04:06 AM: Quote from: Joe on April 12, 2008, 08:50:24 AM

I used to vent it, ........ and cleaning the opening of all the collected resins.

Joe
Cleaning the vent........hmmmmm I havent' done that.

I don't use a dryer vent... too flimsy. I use hotwater heater vent. Much more robust, takes the heat, and if there is a chimney fire (since I don't clean it) it won't melt...
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on April 12, 2008, 09:08:40 AM: Joe,

What does the PID does for you on your sample roaster?
Would it help me with my iRoast?

I have one on my big roaster, but that is way different.

monito
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Joe on April 12, 2008, 10:01:19 AM: Quote from: Monito on April 12, 2008, 09:08:40 AM
Joe,

What does the PID does for you on your sample roaster?
Would it help me with my iRoast?

I have one on my big roaster, but that is way different.

monito

It's awesome it basically becomes a mini electric programable sonofresco. It fully automates any profile I want for roasting, I use mine as a sample roaster so I have 4 setpoints on my profile and then I have it shut heat off and turn to cooling (fan only). I have it set currently for a 440F finish temp which is where I am calibrated for cupping, I might adjust the finish temp slightly if I feel like I need to go lighter but for the most part it is extremely consistant.

Joe

edit:If you can seperate the heating element to its own 120vac plug you can PID the Iroast
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: barko78 on April 12, 2008, 08:24:07 PM: The newest addition to my family. I bought it today and have a couple batches on it. It's not installed yet and it won't end up where it is in the pic. Just needed to get it out of the way. I'm going to start burning in the drum tomorrow.
Edit: ok, they should look better now.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: peter on April 12, 2008, 08:28:30 PM: You must be talking about the gorgeous new Ambex YM-2K, yes?

I wonder why only some of us can see the pic... ?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: barko78 on April 12, 2008, 08:30:36 PM: Quote from: peter on April 12, 2008, 08:28:30 PM
You must be talking about the gorgeous new Ambex YM-2K, yes?

I wonder why only some of us can see the pic... ?

Have to resize the pics - too much driving for one day ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: BoldJava on April 13, 2008, 02:29:23 AM: Quote from: barko78 on April 12, 2008, 08:24:07 PM
The newest addition to my family. I bought it today and have a couple batches on it. ...

I can now roast vicariously thru you on an Ambex. Happy for you. You have now taken the lead for who has the biggest toy in our Cabal. Except this really isn't a toy.

I bet you drove down to Clearwater and picked it up? You sneak you...

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on April 13, 2008, 06:10:49 AM: Quote from: Joe on April 12, 2008, 10:01:19 AM
It's awesome it basically becomes a mini electric programable sonofresco. It fully automates any profile I want for roasting, I use mine as a sample roaster so I have 4 setpoints on my profile and then I have it shut heat off and turn to cooling (fan only). I have it set currently for a 440F finish temp which is where I am calibrated for cupping, I might adjust the finish temp slightly if I feel like I need to go lighter but for the most part it is extremely consistant.
Joe
edit:If you can seperate the heating element to its own 120vac plug you can PID the Iroast

Hey Yo GO GI Joe ... is that a separate self contained PID unit? How much does that baby go for?

Ciao
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: barko78 on April 13, 2008, 07:05:03 AM: Quote from: BoldJava on April 13, 2008, 02:29:23 AM
I bet you drove down to Clearwater and picked it up? You sneak you...

Actually drove to Madison to get it. Easier than Clearwater. Found a seller with a brand new 2008 model.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: YasBean on April 13, 2008, 10:42:45 AM: I knew Madison was the center of the civilized Mid-west! ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on April 13, 2008, 02:41:51 PM: Quote from: BoldJava on April 13, 2008, 02:29:23 AM
Quote from: barko78 on April 12, 2008, 08:24:07 PM
The newest addition to my family. I bought it today and have a couple batches on it. ...

I can now roast vicariously thru you on an Ambex. Happy for you. You have now taken the lead for who has the biggest toy in our Cabal. Except this really isn't a toy.

I bet you drove down to Clearwater and picked it up? You sneak you...

B|Java
I have been to their factory and their classroom which they have at their office/espresso store. This people are very nice, Terry, his wife and crew.

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: shep on April 13, 2008, 05:14:58 PM: We even had snow down here in Southern Indiana today...that is just not right! Congrats barko78 on the new YM2. I am quite pleased with mine, only I hope that six months from now it will be overshadowed by a new YM15!

Shep
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on April 13, 2008, 06:45:03 PM: Did you get this batch to a 2nd crack?

I never get that smoke unless is into a rolling 2nd crack...

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: irunbird on April 14, 2008, 06:38:31 PM: Our last snow was on April 15th a few years ago (on Easter Sunday)- in Tucson, no less! Leave it to our weird weather systems to have a "white Easter". Anyway, here's my set up-- kinda hard to see given the light, but this is shortly after dropping a 350 gm load of Brazil FVA that Liftoff distributed a while ago.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Joe on April 14, 2008, 10:21:43 PM: Quote from: mp on April 13, 2008, 06:10:49 AM
Quote from: Joe on April 12, 2008, 10:01:19 AM
It's awesome it basically becomes a mini electric programable sonofresco. It fully automates any profile I want for roasting, I use mine as a sample roaster so I have 4 setpoints on my profile and then I have it shut heat off and turn to cooling (fan only). I have it set currently for a 440F finish temp which is where I am calibrated for cupping, I might adjust the finish temp slightly if I feel like I need to go lighter but for the most part it is extremely consistant.
Joe
edit:If you can seperate the heating element to its own 120vac plug you can PID the Iroast

Hey Yo GO GI Joe ... is that a separate self contained PID unit? How much does that baby go for?

Ciao

Yes it is. I built mine for about $200 but I built Chad's for around $175 I think. PID's have come down in price
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: shep on April 15, 2008, 02:39:57 AM: Quote from: Monito on April 13, 2008, 06:45:03 PM
Did you get this batch to a 2nd crack?

I never get that smoke unless is into a rolling 2nd crack...

Monito

Just barely into second...probably about 428 degrees by my readout. You see a lot more smoke if you don't open the damper all the way to the cooling bin...makes a nice show for visitors! Funny, I used to keep most of my coffees out of second crack completely. Now that I sell coffee and use the Ambex, I rarely ever roast a coffee that light anymore.

Shep
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on April 23, 2008, 11:01:20 AM: I wish this was my Roaster... Has any body got a clue were this came from?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: irunbird on April 23, 2008, 12:05:30 PM: I would guess all parts came from Grainger and Home-depot, maybe? Interesting design, but you'd kinda leave temp and air control up to the prevailing winds, unless you roast under the kitchen hood.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: peter on April 23, 2008, 12:49:54 PM: Quote from: J.Jirehs Roaster on April 23, 2008, 11:01:20 AM
I wish this was my Roaster... Has any body got a clue were this came from?

No idea what it's from, but I do know I'd like to buy it from you.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on April 23, 2008, 01:15:09 PM: Quote from: peter on April 23, 2008, 12:49:54 PM

No idea what it's from, but I do know I'd like to buy it from you.

If I had one I would let you know were to get it.. :(

I agree with you on the open air design issue irunbird, I found it on a chinese blog while searching for coffee roaster images..

I like the way it picks up and pours out, similar to sample roasters only no hinge. Also has a trier and right angle funnel, If it was enclosed it would be the cats meow..
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: milowebailey on April 27, 2008, 02:23:03 PM: Here is one of my roaster.... sort of.

It's a traditional roaster from Ethiopia. They put hot coals in the bottom Clay chamber and then once hot, put green coffee on the metal pan. They roast the beans, crush them and make coffee in a clay pot (see one in show off your espresso machine topic)

http://www.epicurean.com/articles/ethiopian-coffee-ceremony.html
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: fanelda on May 01, 2008, 08:29:35 AM: Where did you find this darling wave group????? Would love to have it. Thanks!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on May 01, 2008, 07:54:10 PM: I am looking for opinions and ideas as I begin learning to roast on this fully battery and propane powered roaster. I want to sell hand made coffee and fresh roasted mugs this summer. Primary goal is to promote my wife and mine pottery business and to promote the coffee shop I am roasting for. Will probably sell mostly Sonafresca roasted coffee from the shop but thinking the smell of fresh roasting coffee will be a nice draw.

first pick is of the roaster, second pic is of the first 1/2 lb batch of Ethiopian Yirg taken a little too far into 2nd
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on May 15, 2008, 06:16:28 PM: Whimper... I never really felt the need to restore an old car, but......

Do you have to actually play lotto to win!?!?!?!??!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Dante on July 18, 2008, 07:16:56 PM: My troops in battle formation - ;D Eager to meet the Gesha! Ah!

(http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a280/dtp279/Coffee/Trio-_MG_6544.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: thejavaman on July 20, 2008, 06:59:13 PM: Congrats Woody! I'll be curious to see how you like it because I may need to upgrade soon and Ambex is at the top of my list.....
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Dante on July 20, 2008, 08:40:17 PM: 15 kilos! Man, that is a monster machine! Congratulations Woody!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: shep on November 11, 2008, 04:06:42 AM: Woody,

That is awesome! I really wanted a 15k and did find two, but in the end, the 10k swap deal was my best choice financially. The come-along is a good idea but I am going to have to go one step further...heavy equipment! I have to lower mine about 10-12 feet into a landing. I have been using propane also. The YM2 was very economical. It will be interesting to see how the 10 compares. We will be learning together. I have taken my YM2 apart for cleaning/maintenance many times (don't want to burn the house down!), so if I can help any, don't hesitate to call or write.

Shep
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on November 11, 2008, 04:50:02 PM: Quote from: FinerGrind on November 11, 2008, 04:32:10 PM

I also fear propane greatly - let's just say there was a period during my youth where I got interested in thermodynamics and accelerants and I had a bad experience with a propane tank and a .22 long...
......Sweet. :P... unless of course you were to close then !?!?!? Ouch :o ?!?!?!

Quote from: FinerGrind on November 11, 2008, 04:32:10 PM
Understand the house burning thing - thus the Roasting Shack I built.......
I have converted the YM-15 to propane, but I have yet to dig the trench to tie in the power to the building. I'll need to have enough power to run the Behmor and/or SC-TO, an espresso machine, grinder, laptop, lights, air-conditioner, flat-screen TV, in addition to the motors on the YM-15 and booster fan on the exhaust.

That's not a roasting shack?!?!?!? that's a two car garage?!?! or in Minnesota they call it an ice fishing hut :-X
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: sconelady on November 19, 2008, 08:47:36 AM: Here is mine
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: grinderz on November 19, 2008, 11:13:39 AM: Quote from: FinerGrind on November 11, 2008, 04:32:10 PM
Understand the house burning thing - thus the Roasting Shack I built. I also fear propane greatly - let's just say there was a period during my youth where I got interested in thermodynamics and accelerants and I had a bad experience with a propane tank and a .22 long...

Must have been a lucky shot? My own youthful experiments with an (EMPTY!!) 5 gallon LPG tank and a .357 just resulted in a dented tank. Now a 30-30 on the other hand...

I had a former boss who had to go swimming one time when the guided steelhead fishing boat he was on developed a leaky hose on a propane catalytic heater.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: shep on November 20, 2008, 05:15:42 AM: Here is my new machine installed. I run on 2, 100 lb propane tanks with a switchover valve so I don't run out.

Shep
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: shep on November 22, 2008, 03:00:45 PM: Quote from: FinerGrind on November 22, 2008, 01:36:53 PM
Quote from: shep on November 20, 2008, 05:15:42 AM
Here is my new machine installed. I run on 2, 100 lb propane tanks with a switchover valve so I don't run out.

Shep

Shep, how many roasts can you do on a 100lb tank? Just curious, because this is what I'm looking to do, until I can find a good deal on a 500lb tank (tho' it might be less expensive for me to carry the 100lb tanks to be refilled, than to have a truck deliver). Also, do you monitoring the flow and consider this in your profile?

Thanks,

Woody

Woody,

The YM2 was very conservative. I have filled both tanks once and just filled one of them for the second time. I would guess I have run about 1000 batches or more through those tanks. I have only done about 10 batches on the new machine so I have no idea yet how much it will use, but I will monitor it. I chose to use these tanks and take them to get filled rather than have a big tank in the yard and have a truck come out. We don't use propane for anything else here. I have natural gas at my house, but the house next door, where I roast, does not have it and I did not want to run it right now.

As far as monitoring the flow in my profile, do you mean the pressure? If so, yes, I use the pressure gauge as a point of reference for my roasts. I do not know what year Ambex started adding the pressure gauge and control knob. Mine is an 06 and it only had a "half/full" valve, similar to a gas on/off valve. I had it upgraded so that I now have the pressure gauge and control knob just like my YM2 had. Better yet, I would love to upgrade to the touch screen system...but I'm all tapped out right now!

Shep
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on March 25, 2009, 04:08:19 AM: Quote from: nanotheater on March 25, 2009, 03:13:33 AM
My Fresh Roast is on the way out- it is now unable to deliver a really dark bean- and is unable to roast the Costa Rican that I got from a distribution to an espresso dark.

Spend the money-either go way popcorn popper cheap or $495+ expensive- no picture- not proud

SC/TO (http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php?topic=5033.0) can be a simple build or a tinkerers dream but cost is low for the volume and control... ;D

If I didn't like to make things as much as I like to burn things I would get a Behmour for $300
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on April 04, 2009, 09:10:59 AM: That is some beast mattquest! So you were roasting commercially?

:)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on April 04, 2009, 09:29:55 AM: Quote from: mp on April 04, 2009, 09:10:59 AM
That is some beast mattquest! So you were roasting commercially?

:)

Perspective... it's a close up.. I think its about a 5lb max roaster.. otherwise that is one monstrous trier :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on April 04, 2009, 10:38:55 AM: Quote from: J.Jirehs Roaster on April 04, 2009, 09:29:55 AM
Perspective... it's a close up.. I think its about a 5lb max roaster.. otherwise that is one monstrous trier :)

I see your point JJ ... mattquist must have a nice 35mm DSLR to take pictures with. If I did that with my point and shoot it would come out much too blurry to do it any justice.

:)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on April 04, 2009, 12:00:36 PM: Thank you for that mattquist ... I know everything is relative ... that looks like a beast compared to my FR8+.

:)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: dennis.keating on June 06, 2009, 12:33:07 PM: The commercial roasters are truly beautifull beasts.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: farmroast on August 20, 2009, 08:03:44 AM: Here is my hybrid 1kg homebuilt Dreamroast
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Nucer on September 04, 2009, 07:30:13 AM: I am envious but it is all about our toys. Enjoy and let us know how your learning curve works out.

(green in Benbrook, Texas)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Dante on September 04, 2009, 06:47:59 PM: Fantastic upgrade Larry! With that capacity, are you planning to open a small roasting business soon?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: yorel23 on September 09, 2009, 05:54:03 PM: Quote from: milowebailey on September 09, 2009, 05:15:18 PM
It's the Economy model, no upgrades... but there will be.

They probably won't be purchased from Ambex though, I bet. ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: coffeefanaddict on October 06, 2009, 09:58:43 PM: Why whats going on with Ambex?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on October 07, 2009, 02:40:42 PM: Quote from: Coffeefanaddict on October 06, 2009, 09:58:43 PM
Why whats going on with Ambex?

I think he was referring to millow's propensity to make his own mods (http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php?topic=5382.0)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: coffeefanaddict on October 08, 2009, 06:27:30 PM: Ok... this is the only place I can go with this information where it will be totally appreciated and where I know most of you would feel the same way as I do if you were in my shoes.

I just paid a deposit on a used Diedrich IR-3.

I am so excited I can hardly contain myself.
I will send pictures when I get it. I still love my Sonofresco and RK and popcorn popper but to have some real control over a roast now that is exciting.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: milowebailey on October 08, 2009, 08:41:40 PM: Quote from: Tex on October 07, 2009, 02:42:55 PM
Quote from: J.Jirehs Roaster on October 07, 2009, 02:40:42 PM
Quote from: Coffeefanaddict on October 06, 2009, 09:58:43 PM
Why whats going on with Ambex?

I think he was referring to millow's propensity to make his own mods ([url]http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php?topic=5382.0[/url])

At least that's the rumor. Has anyone seen any of these mods? ::)

Tex has roaster envy... poor little fella... I'm sure he'll get a drum roaster one of these days ;D ;D

(http://rlv.zcache.com/envy_university_t_shirt_maroon_red_tshirt-p235727313204934643u34v_400.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on October 08, 2009, 08:47:57 PM: Milo ... I think you may have Tex's roaster now.

;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Tex on October 08, 2009, 08:55:07 PM: Quote from: milowebailey on October 08, 2009, 08:41:40 PM
Quote from: Tex on October 07, 2009, 02:42:55 PM
Quote from: J.Jirehs Roaster on October 07, 2009, 02:40:42 PM
Quote from: Coffeefanaddict on October 06, 2009, 09:58:43 PM
Why whats going on with Ambex?

I think he was referring to millow's propensity to make his own mods ([url]http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php?topic=5382.0[/url])

At least that's the rumor. Has anyone seen any of these mods? ::)

Tex has roaster envy... poor little fella... I'm sure he'll get a drum roaster one of these days ;D ;D
...

I thought about it - hard! :-\
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: dmankin on October 18, 2009, 12:03:18 PM: Quote from: Tex on October 08, 2009, 09:01:46 PM
Quote from: milowebailey on October 08, 2009, 08:57:53 PM
I know, hard not to buy it... it was a great deal too.

Yeah, but Mrs T wanted to go to an antique auction in Memphis next month, so I'll wait on my drum roaster. You know how it is with us married men, when the wife's happy we're tickled pink! ;D
Take Mrs. T. antique shopping in Alexandria, VA, stay with us, and use the saved hotel fees for a roaster. Run it up the flagpole to see if it flies! :angel:
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Joseph Plaugher on October 22, 2009, 08:47:24 AM: BobTimo,
I just bought one of these whirley pops to roast with. Switched from a hot air popper which kept breaking and lacked body in the cup. Any advice before I run my first batch? Will be roasting for both press and espresso, respectively.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: MMW on October 22, 2009, 09:12:54 AM: Quote from: Joseph Plaugher on October 22, 2009, 08:47:24 AM
BobTimo,
I just bought one of these whirley pops to roast with. Switched from a hot air popper which kept breaking and lacked body in the cup. Any advice before I run my first batch? Will be roasting for both press and espresso, respectively.

You have read this (http://www.sweetmarias.com/stovepopmethod.php), right?

Get one of these

(http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/photos/03600-03699/03670.gif)19.99 (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=3670)

And one of these

(http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/photos/42100-42199/42191.gif) 3.99 (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=42191)

A nut that fits the thread on the top of the whirly pop and a socket for the nut.

That's what I used before my Hottop.

Make sure you have a good thermometer...crank slow and steady. It's so easy I could do it...
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Tex on October 28, 2009, 12:12:44 PM: My Sonofresco in action!

Guat COE #10, distro'd by Draagoth.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6j1oKiCLb4[/youtube]
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on October 31, 2009, 04:29:39 PM: Quote from: Joseph Plaugher on October 31, 2009, 11:38:57 AM

That's a great idea. I did that. Works well. I seems like the 400 degree preheat temp Tom recommends is too high. So far I've scorched the batch a little before it even reached first crack. What preheat temp do you use? I was thinking about trying it at 200 F.

I preheat my SC/TO to 400 and that usually means it takes 3 minutes to get to 300. the whirly pops are thin (especially the Aluminum ones) you may need to preheat to 400 then back the heat down for the early part of the roast... or try preheat to 300... 200 sounds a little low IMHO
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: headchange4u on November 11, 2009, 01:47:40 PM: My new 4# RK Drum setup.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v704/headchange4u/coffee%20related/Drum%20Roaster/DrumRoaster8.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v704/headchange4u/coffee%20related/Drum%20Roaster/DrumRoaster13.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v704/headchange4u/coffee%20related/Drum%20Roaster/DrumRoaster10.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: peter on November 11, 2009, 01:55:25 PM: When you are roasting beans from the southern hemisphere, make sure the drum is rotating counterclockwise. That's how the beans like it, and you'll get moar flavor out of them.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on November 11, 2009, 07:47:20 PM: Quote from: peter on November 11, 2009, 01:55:25 PM
When you are roasting beans from the southern hemisphere, make sure the drum is rotating counterclockwise. That's how the beans like it, and you'll get moar flavor out of them.

thats why you like the SC/TO... you can change the direction easily.. ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: coffeefanaddict on February 18, 2010, 08:19:42 AM: I got this up and running this december.

Diedrich IR-3
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on February 18, 2010, 08:23:22 AM: Quote from: Coffeefanaddict on February 18, 2010, 08:19:42 AM
I got this up and running this december.

Diedrich IR-3

Nice looking install (hope that door is not the one you bring full bags of coffee in through :o
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on February 18, 2010, 08:38:06 AM: :o :o :o

How many kilos will that sucker do?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: thejavaman on February 18, 2010, 08:58:10 AM: Quote from: Coffeefanaddict on February 18, 2010, 08:19:42 AM
I got this up and running this december.

Diedrich IR-3

Nice! Did you do the install yourself? How about the venting?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: coffeefanaddict on February 18, 2010, 09:18:40 AM: I did the install with the help of a handyman. We really took our time to get it right. I found the black doublewall pipe on craigslist for 100 bucks then bought the kit for the roof from home depot and above that is 6 feet of triplewall.
The door is kind of an optical illusion. It opens all the way and there is good room to walk past. I carry all my club flat rate boxes through the garage door behind. I look forward to the time when I carry some full bags through though.
My brother and I are going up to Diedrich manufacturing next month for some education. I have done about 30 roasts on it so far.
It will do 7 pounds but I think it likes 6 best.
I love it!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Warrior372 on February 18, 2010, 09:38:14 AM: Have fun in Sandpoint, Idaho, it is beautiful! Bring your skis too, there is a great resort named Schweitzer right there in Sandpoint. I am not sure how much time you will be spending in the area, but you will want to check out Coeur D'Alene, Idaho as well if you have time. It is a very quant lake town with mountains surrounding the lake. It is a city you will have to drive through while going up to Sandpoint, Sandpoint is about an hour and a half north of Coeur D'Alene, from the Spokane, WA airport. I use to live in Spokane and work in Coeur D'Alene. It is an absolutely gorgeous part of the Inland NorthWest.

Beautiful roaster by the way!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: coffeefanaddict on February 18, 2010, 11:14:19 AM: I am really looking forward to going. I have been up to Coeur d'alene before and loved it. (summertime) i have only seen pictures of Sandpoint as a friend of ours has a house there. Unfortunately we are only there for three days because of work schedules. Looking forward to a Bowl of Soul at the local cafe!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Stubbie on February 27, 2010, 08:01:10 AM: Just a quick video of a full batch of Brazil Moreninha Formosa coming out of my roaster the other night. Quality is poor, it was shot on my phone, and you might want to turn down the volume a bit - that loud noise in the middle is the cooling arms/fan coming on.

35# of green in, about 28.5# out roasted - 30 second pull :)

[youtube]E.F. Hobbs Specialty Coffee - Full batch roast finish (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YS3Do5brxvE#)[/youtube]

-Stubbie
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on February 27, 2010, 09:03:15 AM: Hmm ... here is the working link.

Stubbie's Brazil Moreninha Formosa coming out of my roaster the other night. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YS3Do5brxvE#)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Stubbie on February 28, 2010, 05:47:33 AM: Thanks mp - not sure why mine didn't work. It showed up in the preview before I posted...

-Stubbie
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: nwmarco on March 29, 2010, 04:31:33 PM: I started with a hot air popcorn machine and have graduate to the iRoast 2.

Those are the Sul de Minas beans in there right now.

I'm considering upgrading to the Behrmor machine as I've read good things about it on coffeegeek.com

Cheers,
Marco in Seattle
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on March 29, 2010, 04:39:04 PM: Quote from: Stubbie on February 28, 2010, 05:47:33 AM
Thanks mp - not sure why mine didn't work. It showed up in the preview before I posted...

-Stubbie

You're welcome Stubbie ... there seem to be many changes that go onto YouTube. What worked one day all of a sudden does not work the next.

::)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on May 04, 2010, 01:23:00 PM: Quote from: doveguy1 on May 03, 2010, 09:29:32 PM
Check out the rig

IMG_2020 ([url]http://www.flickr.com/photos/doveguy1/4576814249/#[/url])

That's nice....
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: peter on May 04, 2010, 08:15:41 PM: Quote from: BoldJava on May 04, 2010, 06:31:32 PM
Quote from: cfsheridan on May 04, 2010, 06:22:08 PM

Yet another shameless Wisconsin plug.

You have no idea how hard it is to be humble when you live in Wisconsin.

B|Java

Keep that to yourself. We don't want Tex moving up here; we'd have to leave.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Tex on May 04, 2010, 08:21:04 PM: Quote from: peter on May 04, 2010, 08:15:41 PM
Quote from: BoldJava on May 04, 2010, 06:31:32 PM
Quote from: cfsheridan on May 04, 2010, 06:22:08 PM

Yet another shameless Wisconsin plug.

You have no idea how hard it is to be humble when you live in Wisconsin.

B|Java

Keep that to yourself. We don't want Tex moving up here; we'd have to leave.

Go ahead and yell it from the mountain: No thanks - Tex doesn't live anywhere that cold - Seattle was bad enough!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: peter on May 04, 2010, 08:41:06 PM: Quote from: Tex on May 04, 2010, 08:21:04 PM
Quote from: peter on May 04, 2010, 08:15:41 PM
Quote from: BoldJava on May 04, 2010, 06:31:32 PM
Quote from: cfsheridan on May 04, 2010, 06:22:08 PM

Yet another shameless Wisconsin plug.

You have no idea how hard it is to be humble when you live in Wisconsin.

B|Java

Keep that to yourself. We don't want Tex moving up here; we'd have to leave.

Go ahead and yell it from the mountain: No thanks - Tex doesn't live anywhere that cold - Seattle was bad enough!

That whooshing sound you just heard was a collective sigh of relief.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: somegeek on June 15, 2010, 08:38:48 PM: Quote from: milowebailey on April 27, 2008, 02:23:03 PM
Here is one of my roaster.... sort of.

It's a traditional roaster from Ethiopia. They put hot coals in the bottom Clay chamber and then once hot, put green coffee on the metal pan. They roast the beans, crush them and make coffee in a clay pot (see one in show off your espresso machine topic)

[url]http://www.epicurean.com/articles/ethiopian-coffee-ceremony.html[/url] ([url]http://www.epicurean.com/articles/ethiopian-coffee-ceremony.html[/url])

That's pretty sweet.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: somegeek on June 15, 2010, 08:50:20 PM: (http://somegeek.home.comcast.net/somegeek_coffee_roasting_13.jpg)

All parts from Goodwill:
Base is from a Toastmaster
Bowl for insulation mounted to breadmachine base.
Drilled out the mounted paddle from the stock bread bowl and mounted to a saucepan.
Black and Decker head gun.
Cutting board material for the base.

100+ roasts and going strong.

In action...

(http://somegeek.home.comcast.net/somegeek_roasting_2.jpg)

My cooling setup...

(http://somegeek.home.comcast.net/somegeek_roasting_1.jpg)

Found the colander at Goodwill - couldn't ask for a more perfect fit - drops right in and seats perfectly. Knocked off the handles and feet(spot welded on) with a hammer and some quick whacks.

The milk jug works great as a funnel to dump in to my jars or hold the next batch of weighed out beans to hit my roaster.

Takes me 20 minutes from weighing the green beans and setting up to setting the coffee bean filled jars in my kitchen and walking away. 1-1.5lbs per roast.

somegeek
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: peter on June 15, 2010, 09:01:11 PM: Very, very slick, some.

What are your thoughts about putting some sort of lid on it to trap more heat?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: somegeek on June 16, 2010, 08:00:58 AM: Thanks, Peter. I have this lid on there which holds the heat gun as well:

(http://somegeek.home.comcast.net/somegeek_coffee_roasting_11.jpg)

(http://somegeek.home.comcast.net/somegeek_coffee_roasting_12.jpg)

(http://somegeek.home.comcast.net/somegeek_coffee_roasting_8.jpg)

Posted more pics here (http://www.homeroasters.org/php/forum/viewthread.php?thread_id=528&rowstart=50) regarding this build.

somegeek
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: FinerGrind on September 14, 2010, 01:15:12 PM: Quote from: FinerGrind on July 20, 2008, 05:01:28 PM
Here is the Ambex YM-15 (15kilo, 33lbs) I just purchased. I'm baby-stepping my way to serious coffee roasting, and I had a lead from the SCAA conference on this roaster.

I bought it from Stone Cup Roasting Co. If you are ever in Chattanooga, stop by and visit them - this are wonderful to work with. Jennifer Stone may be the reason I got into roasting, when I stopped into her shop on the way to a fishing trip in Snowbird Mts. Their roaster Bryan and I roasted a couple of batches of coffee on it, prior to tearing it down for me to carry home. Come-alongs are a roaster-movers friend...

I just finished building my "roasting shack" (did I nick that from BW?) and I didn't plan to put a production roaster into it - it's a good thing that I haven't run power to it yet, and I'll be converting the Ambex from natural gas to propane. But I have proper clearances around the roaster, and will probably expand the building soon. I just wrestled the 800lb roaster into the shack - again, come-alongs are a roaster-movers friend...

Once it's up and running, I'll post more pictures. The first pic is at their site; the second the "roasting shack", the third a close-up. I'm really excited about being able to roast

I did it again. I just brought home an Ambex YM-5. I want to do a lot of upgrades to the YM-15 so I'm going to take it offline and boot up the YM-5, until I'm finished with the mods. I might put one roaster into a roasting space in the city and keep one here on the farm.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Pyment on September 14, 2010, 01:29:03 PM: you could sell it to a guy here in Wisconsin after you are done. 8)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: FinerGrind on September 14, 2010, 03:36:12 PM: Quote from: Pyment on September 14, 2010, 01:29:03 PM
you could sell it to a guy here in Wisconsin after you are done. 8)

I would always sell to my friends first :-D! This is a nice little roaster. It was used very little and has been in storage for the last two years. Compared to the 1996 YM-15, it doesn't seem as heavily built. The YM-15 is #36 Ambex built, and the YM-5 is 50XX. It may be that Ambex overbuilt them earlier on.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Pyment on September 20, 2010, 02:35:45 PM: From another thread:

Quote from: JimsJava on September 13, 2010, 08:34:31 PM
Can you give me a rough idea on the price? I am looking for a roaster in the 1 to 2 kilo range, plus I like that with this one (as compared to the Sonofresco), I can do small sample batches.

Also, do you have a discussion thread where you gave a review of your roaster?

A review? well imagine that! Someone wants my opinion! Quelle horreur!

I have had the roaster for 2+ years. I bought it from one of the members here. It was made in 2007. I have the electric 120v version. Prior to this I roasted on a Gene Cafe (I actually got one of the first 50 of those imported into the US) and before that an iRoast. Before buying this, I had experience with roasting with some Probat sample roasters (both electric and gas), a Diedrich IR3, a Joper 15Kg (see link) and had seen some other roasters in action.

http://web.mac.com/victor.mondry/Site/New_Joper_European_15_kg_Roaster.html#0 (http://web.mac.com/victor.mondry/Site/New_Joper_European_15_kg_Roaster.html#0)

In looking for my roaster, I looked at the US Roasters sample roaster, the Diedrich HR1 (there were still a few of those available then) and a variety of used roasters. This one was a great deal and seemed to fit my needs.

When I first bought the roaster, I put in a separate circuit for it and have it set up in the garage. The element needed replacing and, in the process, I shorted it out.

Delaware City Coffee Company refused to help me because they didn't sell the machine. I had to obtain elements from Turkey. (You have to wonder why they wouldn't help someone who might want to upgrade and become a future customer. Perhaps that is why they used to be distributors for Coffee Tech and now have their "Geometrico" line). Fortunately, the response I got from Robust Roasters has been considerably better. They have emailed a copy of the manual to me (which is considerably improved over the old one). definitely more friendly than the prior distributor.

The local machine shop (which services much of the local industrial machinery and farm equipment) was able to help me with this and I was up and running.

The Roaster weighs 82 kg. It is a rugged design with good fit and finish. There are 4 controls. Three pairs of on/off buttons control the drum, heat and stirring wand for the cooler. There is also a rotating switch for the 2 coils you can have the coils off or turn on 1 or both.

There is an attached chaff collector and the exhaust comes off there. I don't have it connected to anything but I am sure there wouldn't be any trouble finding appropriate ducting. If you are venting this through a structure, there would be other considerations. You would have to get advice from someone who knows more than I. There are guidelines in the manual.

You only have 1 temp probe and need to decide whether you want to measure air temp or bean temp. I have my probe in the bean mass. I adjusted the probe so it is as close to the drum without hitting the vanes. It might be nice to also measure air temp, but I haven't introduced a second temp probe. The temp on my roaster is in C.

When you are ready to roast, you have to preheat the drum. You adjust your drop temp so you get the "turn" about 1.5-2 min after you drop the beans. You don't want the temp so high that you scorch them. I usually want the temp below my final goal temp. I use a lower temp for smaller batches. This is one of the variables you get to work with.

The drum has a pretty high thermal mass which helps it heat evenly and consistently. I would look at the weight of any roaster you are looking at to give you an idea of how heavy the drum is. The heaviest 1 kg roaster I have seen is the Giesen W1 at 150 kg. The Diedrich is 61+ kg, the 1 lb US Roasters is 88 lbs. Ambex 1 lb roaster is 75lbs. Toper is at the heavier end of the scale for this size roaster.

Because this is an electric roaster, you aren't going to have an immediate effect on the roast by turning coils on and off. It is like Diedrich IR roasters in that changes you make take effect 1-2 mins from now.

I have roasted in the garage at below 0 deg F. here you begin to notice the cold air coming in cools things down. To counter this I have used a can that fits over the exhaust to slow down air flow. This helps heat things faster. You can use this technique if you have a roast that is falling behind. If I have slowed the roast I will use this to get caught up.

It is a solidly built roaster that does what is necessary to get some great roasts. Not all of your roasters in this range are going to have this heavy a drum or 3 motors or the overall build that is going to last a long time.

Now on to what I would like to see better:

1) I would like to have better control over air flow. I will say this didn't really bother me until I had roasted quite a bit and had the knowledge where I know what to do with it.

2) The sight glass fills with beans and chaff during any roast over 1/2 capacity. This is much less a problem with smaller beans and peaberries. The beans that get stuck in there don't roast adequately. Other than being able to see the coils are working, there isn't much to see. It is a pain to fish out 5-12 under-roasted beans at the end of the roast. This interferes with being able to to back to back roasts and is tedious. If I was confident in my ability to put the thing back together, I would take it apart and do some kind of remedy. It is minor, but irritating.

3) Sampler is a bit small. I would like a larger one so I could remove enough to cup at different temps.

4) More heat! It is a bit underpowered. I think I have said this about every roaster I have had.

These are really all small issues. In fact, I plan on talking to my nephew the electrician to see about putting in a variable fan.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: DJR on November 04, 2010, 09:06:36 PM: Here's a roaster I made from a stainless milk can and a Tormek knife sharpener.

I admit that the sharpener was an afterthought. I blew up my gear motor and the Tormek was gathering dust, so why not? Plus I can sharpen a knife until first crack, after which, I'm all over it. It easily and evenly roasts 32 ounces (dry measure).

Almost as useful is my shop dust collector cooler which cools a couple pounds of beans in 14 seconds. I really haven't seen a better cooling method, even in small commercial roasters. It also removes the chaff.

Coffee Roaster Knife Sharpener (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBSeh69h2_I#)
The roaster in action

Coffee Roaster Cooler (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S2mRgPpIFxA#)
Cooler in action

dan
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Tex on November 04, 2010, 09:11:31 PM: Quote from: DJR on November 04, 2010, 09:06:36 PM
Here's a roaster I made from a stainless milk can and a Tormek knife sharpener.

I admit that the sharpener was an afterthought. I blew up my gear motor and the Tormek was gathering dust, so why not? Plus I can sharpen a knife until first crack, after which, I'm all over it. It easily and evenly roasts 32 ounces (dry measure).

Almost as useful is my shop dust collector cooler which cools a couple pounds of beans in 14 seconds. I really haven't seen a better cooling method, even in small commercial roasters. It also removes the chaff.

snipped

dan

Doesn't it seem the RPM's a bit fast? But it's a pretty setup!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: DJR on November 04, 2010, 09:19:28 PM: It's 90 RPM, which seems ok. At least it works ok. No tipping or burning. I'm going to drill a few 1/8" holes around the drum to let the beans dry better. I've been noticing with some beans, that when I put in my trier, it has condensation on it, so they are not drying as fast as I think they should, though what do I know? I've done over 150 roasts on it so far. They all seem to last between 14-16 minutes.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Ringo on November 05, 2010, 03:51:17 AM: Really nice build, the milk can looks like a great roasting drum.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: BoldJava on November 05, 2010, 05:20:14 AM: Quote from: Ringo on November 05, 2010, 03:51:17 AM
Really nice build, the milk can looks like a great roasting drum.

What an ingenious contraption. I love it. For comparison, the RK drum rotates at about 55 RPM. It has tons of holes and before your post, I never considered why. In the YouTube, when you ran the tester rod into the milk can, I knew I had to discuss with my wife over breakfast. She wasn't quite as taken with it but she politely listens, as she always does.

Delightful.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Tex on November 05, 2010, 06:34:00 AM: Quote from: DJR on November 04, 2010, 09:19:28 PM
It's 90 RPM, which seems ok. At least it works ok. No tipping or burning. I'm going to drill a few 1/8" holes around the drum to let the beans dry better. I've been noticing with some beans, that when I put in my trier, it has condensation on it, so they are not drying as fast as I think they should, though what do I know? I've done over 150 roasts on it so far. They all seem to last between 14-16 minutes.

Probably needs a fan to push the moisture out of the can. Maybe it's also a problem of the hole being too small?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Ringo on November 05, 2010, 06:55:26 AM: Crazy idea here, but could you rig a pipe that would stick into the can the same way the trier does, remove it when you need to sample the roast. Have the pipe go up a couple of feet so the heat could draft out of the pipe. You would have a natural draft vent to use when you needed it. It would have to be smaller than your sample hole becouse thats were the make up air would come from.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: reedvilleroaster on November 18, 2010, 10:48:40 PM: My SC/TO seems very humble compared to a lot of what I see going on in here. Gotta admit, I'm a little jealous.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: peter on November 19, 2010, 09:54:10 AM: Quote from: reedvilleroaster on November 18, 2010, 10:48:40 PM
My SC/TO seems very humble compared to a lot of what I see going on in here. Gotta admit, I'm a little jealous.

Nothin' wrong with that setup!

If you can move to a digital thermometer for quicker response, and get the probe down into the bean mass, it'll be similar to what I've used for a few thousand lbs.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on November 19, 2010, 12:59:45 PM: Quote from: reedvilleroaster on November 18, 2010, 10:48:40 PM
My SC/TO seems very humble compared to a lot of what I see going on in here. Gotta admit, I'm a little jealous.

looks pretty good to me.. complete with bottle opener?!?! love it :D
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Tex on November 19, 2010, 09:05:45 PM: Quote from: reedvilleroaster on November 18, 2010, 10:48:40 PM
My SC/TO seems very humble compared to a lot of what I see going on in here. Gotta admit, I'm a little jealous.

Nice looking setup - one question: how do you make sure the toilet overflow you sucked up with the shop vac doesn't show up in your next roast? ??? I'd prefer using a dedicated air source.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: reedvilleroaster on November 20, 2010, 12:11:12 PM: Toilet overflow? I'm not sure what you mean. It sucks the chaff down and then after it's cooled I use the vacuum to suck the rest of the chaff from the bottom of the bucket. There's no way anything from the previous roast gets into the next roast.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: oldgearhead on November 20, 2010, 12:21:48 PM: I think Tex assumes you use the shop vac for other things....
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: peter on November 20, 2010, 12:54:18 PM: Quote from: oldgearhead on November 20, 2010, 12:21:48 PM
I think Tex assumes you use the shop vac for other things....

Oops, you mean nobody warned reedvilleroaster about Tex?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: reedvilleroaster on November 20, 2010, 01:01:28 PM: Nope, only for roasting. Can't you tell by how shiny and new it looks?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Tex on November 20, 2010, 01:17:09 PM: Quote from: reedvilleroaster on November 20, 2010, 12:11:12 PM
Toilet overflow? I'm not sure what you mean. It sucks the chaff down and then after it's cooled I use the vacuum to suck the rest of the chaff from the bottom of the bucket. There's no way anything from the previous roast gets into the next roast.

Too oblique a reference to things which might affect the flavor of the coffee?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: reedvilleroaster on December 07, 2010, 11:19:17 PM: Here's a project I've been working on. It's like a Turbo Crazy on steroids. I used a Krups ice cream machine on the bottom with a Farberware electric skillet on top (which coincidentally fits right on top of the motor's base). It took some work with a drill and some JB Weld to get a shaft attached to it. I did a dry run with it last night with no heat. It agitated a full pound of beans for 20 minutes with no problem whatsoever. I think I could double it and it still wouldn't have a problem. The only thing left is to try it with the heat and see if the JB holds. Of course, it will eventually need a spacer for proper chaff ejection. Wish me luck.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: grinderz on December 08, 2010, 12:51:46 AM: That looks awesome! The skillet has an adjustable thermostat, right? And the ice cream maker should have tons of torque. Looks like you might have a real winner there.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: reedvilleroaster on December 09, 2010, 12:00:55 AM: After a few hiccups I was able to roast in the Super Crazy tonight. The JB Weld didn't hold, but I was able to reattach the shaft with some copper strip and a couple screws. Here are some thoughts from the first roast.

Negatives:
Definitely needs a spacer to eject chaff- lots of chaff.
Roast took a little too long- almost 20 minutes for Full City/+. Next time I will preheat.
When I turned on both the oven and electric part of the skillet at the same time it tripped the breaker. This is really more of a problem because of my current garage configuration- which unfortunately only has one outlet.

Positives-
Ultimately it did what I wanted- roasted a full pound of coffee, fairly evenly. I think with some slight tinkering, this will be a good setup.

Here is a picture of the maiden roast- Mexico Chiapas.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: karlo on December 14, 2010, 06:54:13 PM: Just received our new Diedrich IR5 on Friday morning. It's a beauty. Still have probably through the end of the month to get the install right in the midst of the Christmas crunch at the shop - we're building a platform out of some distressed sheet metal & i-beams, and are waiting for a local sheet metal place to finish building our duct work. While I can't wait to get roasting on it, I'm just telling folks that I'd rather have it done right than done fast. It also gives me some down time to learn the software on it, too. What's crazy is that I already have two local restaurants and a brewery committed to buying coffee from me! Definitely a humbling feeling.

If you're ever in my direction in central PA, you're invited to come play!
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5081/5262542644_7f256012fb.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Warrior372 on December 15, 2010, 08:25:20 AM: That is a pretty roaster!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: FinerGrind on December 15, 2010, 10:59:23 AM: Quote from: karlo on December 14, 2010, 06:54:13 PM
Just received our new Diedrich IR5 on Friday morning. It's a beauty. Still have probably through the end of the month to get the install right in the midst of the Christmas crunch at the shop - we're building a platform out of some distressed sheet metal & i-beams, and are waiting for a local sheet metal place to finish building our duct work. While I can't wait to get roasting on it, I'm just telling folks that I'd rather have it done right than done fast. It also gives me some down time to learn the software on it, too. What's crazy is that I already have two local restaurants and a brewery committed to buying coffee from me! Definitely a humbling feeling.

If you're ever in my direction in central PA, you're invited to come play!
([url]http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5081/5262542644_7f256012fb.jpg[/url])

Nice Karlo!!!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: headchange4u on December 15, 2010, 12:14:03 PM: That thing is sexy as hell. White looks a lot nicer than I would have thought.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Mlee on December 15, 2010, 12:23:10 PM: I have roaster envy ::) ::)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: karlo on December 27, 2010, 02:50:08 PM: Quote from: headchange4u on December 15, 2010, 12:14:03 PM
That thing is sexy as hell. White looks a lot nicer than I would have thought.

Even though it'll probably be a pain to keep clean, I went with the white for two reasons:
1) I wanted a fairly neutral color, since the roasting room is heavy on brick & wood with a bright accent wall.
2) ever since I first saw Star Wars I've been smitten with storm troopers. They may be mindless, but something about that stark black & white screams pure class.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on December 27, 2010, 02:52:25 PM: Quote from: karlo on December 27, 2010, 02:50:08 PM
Quote from: headchange4u on December 15, 2010, 12:14:03 PM
That thing is sexy as hell. White looks a lot nicer than I would have thought.

Even though it'll probably be a pain to keep clean, I went with the white for two reasons:
1) I wanted a fairly neutral color, since the roasting room is heavy on brick & wood with a bright accent wall.
2) ever since I first saw Star Wars I've been smitten with storm troopers. They may be mindless, but something about that stark black & white screams pure class.

Eye candy for sure!

:)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: jspain on December 27, 2010, 03:07:59 PM: Quote from: FinerGrind on December 15, 2010, 10:59:23 AM
Quote from: karlo on December 14, 2010, 06:54:13 PM
Just received our new Diedrich IR5 on Friday morning. It's a beauty. Still have probably through the end of the month to get the install right in the midst of the Christmas crunch at the shop - we're building a platform out of some distressed sheet metal & i-beams, and are waiting for a local sheet metal place to finish building our duct work. While I can't wait to get roasting on it, I'm just telling folks that I'd rather have it done right than done fast. It also gives me some down time to learn the software on it, too. What's crazy is that I already have two local restaurants and a brewery committed to buying coffee from me! Definitely a humbling feeling.

If you're ever in my direction in central PA, you're invited to come play!
([url]http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5081/5262542644_7f256012fb.jpg[/url])

Nice Karlo!!!

Where you at in central Pa.? I'm on the Ohio border near Pitt and always like a roadtrip.... Jim
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: BoldJava on December 27, 2010, 03:18:42 PM: Quote from: jspain on December 27, 2010, 03:07:59 PM
...
Where you at in central Pa.? I'm on the Ohio border near Pitt and always like a roadtrip.... Jim

Oh, oh. A ridge runners' koffee klatsch coming up.

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: karlo on December 28, 2010, 11:00:05 AM: Quote
Where you at in central Pa.? I'm on the Ohio border near Pitt and always like a roadtrip.... Jim

I'm in Williamsport, PA. She's not up & running yet; I'm bidding out the duct work, hopefully it will be a done job in a week or two. I'll let ya'll know & we'll have a party.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on February 13, 2011, 09:22:39 PM: the subject of ceramic roaster drums came up t the Yemenathon.. here are a few pictures.. (R&D department closed for the season)

first pic is looking into the opening of the drum.. preliminary test show I may only get a pound of roasted per roast
second and third pic are two end angles.. I have a crank arm buried in the snow to hand crank it..
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: BoldJava on February 14, 2011, 03:00:07 AM: Bill, nice.

How much that bad boy weigh? How you dumping it?

The heat that gets retained in the drum must be tricky to profile -- would seem easy to run away?

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: milowebailey on February 14, 2011, 06:23:21 AM: Bill

I like it. I can't even imagine how long it took to make that. I wonder if it will be close to a cast Iron drum...

looking forward to your roasting notes!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: peter on February 14, 2011, 08:22:39 AM: Don't drop it bro'!
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on February 14, 2011, 09:25:41 AM: Quote from: BoldJava on February 14, 2011, 03:00:07 AM
Bill, nice.

How much that bad boy weigh? How you dumping it?

The heat that gets retained in the drum must be tricky to profile -- would seem easy to run away?

B|Java

couple pounds.. the shaft is setting loose so I can pick it up and dump it.. so far it seams the retained heat is not a scorching issue.. (as long as I keep cranking)

Quote from: milowebailey on February 14, 2011, 06:23:21 AM
Bill

I like it. I can't even imagine how long it took to make that. I wonder if it will be close to a cast Iron drum...

looking forward to your roasting notes!

maybe a day of actual labor over a few weeks of drying firing and etc.. I fired it only once.. since I was not glazing it I just put it in a high fire as green ware

Quote from: peter on February 14, 2011, 08:22:39 AM
Don't drop it bro'!

but if I do I have an excuse to make the next one.. bigger, better, faster.. ~theme from bionic man show in background~
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Tex on February 14, 2011, 09:32:49 AM: Quote from: J.Jirehs Roaster on February 14, 2011, 09:25:41 AM
Quote from: BoldJava on February 14, 2011, 03:00:07 AM
Bill, nice.

How much that bad boy weigh? How you dumping it?

The heat that gets retained in the drum must be tricky to profile -- would seem easy to run away?

B|Java

couple pounds.. the shaft is setting loose so I can pick it up and dump it.. so far it seams the retained heat is not a scorching issue.. (as long as I keep cranking)

Quote from: milowebailey on February 14, 2011, 06:23:21 AM
Bill

I like it. I can't even imagine how long it took to make that. I wonder if it will be close to a cast Iron drum...

looking forward to your roasting notes!

maybe a day of actual labor over a few weeks of drying firing and etc.. I fired it only once.. since I was not glazing it I just put it in a high fire as green ware

Quote from: peter on February 14, 2011, 08:22:39 AM
Don't drop it bro'!

but if I do I have an excuse to make the next one.. bigger, better, faster.. ~theme from bionic man show in background~

I want one - when will you begin marketing them? :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: grinderz on February 14, 2011, 12:29:22 PM: I know nothing about ceramics, but is there anything you can add to the clay to modify it so that is more resistant to impact and is less brittle? Something similar to the polypropelyne fibers they add to concrete? Short staple steel wool maybe?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Tex on February 14, 2011, 12:33:05 PM: Quote from: grinderz on February 14, 2011, 12:29:22 PM
I know nothing about ceramics, but is there anything you can add to the clay to modify it so that is more resistant to impact and is less brittle? Something similar to the polypropelyne fibers they add to concrete? Short staple steel wool maybe?

Or form it out of expanded steel and gunite it with concrete?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on February 14, 2011, 03:37:18 PM: Quote from: Tex on February 14, 2011, 12:33:05 PM
Quote from: grinderz on February 14, 2011, 12:29:22 PM
I know nothing about ceramics, but is there anything you can add to the clay to modify it so that is more resistant to impact and is less brittle? Something similar to the polypropelyne fibers they add to concrete? Short staple steel wool maybe?

Or form it out of expanded steel and gunite it with concrete?

I have heard of nothing like that.. there are some more durable ceramic bodies but most of them are formed dry or semi dry under extreme pressure then fired... (not easy for a small studio like ours) I think it is pretty durable as built.. I may try and make it thinner next time and if we try paper clay (organic material in the clay burns out leaving the clay lighter and pores) I may try one with that..

I don't think there is an advantage to the added cost.. its just cheaper for me since I am the manufacturer.. I want to try coffee grinds (like the paper clay) in the clay so when it burns out it will be pores enough to brew coffee
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Tex on February 14, 2011, 03:52:45 PM: Quote from: J.Jirehs Roaster on February 14, 2011, 03:37:18 PM
Quote from: Tex on February 14, 2011, 12:33:05 PM
Quote from: grinderz on February 14, 2011, 12:29:22 PM
I know nothing about ceramics, but is there anything you can add to the clay to modify it so that is more resistant to impact and is less brittle? Something similar to the polypropelyne fibers they add to concrete? Short staple steel wool maybe?

Or form it out of expanded steel and gunite it with concrete?

I have heard of nothing like that.. there are some more durable ceramic bodies but most of them are formed dry or semi dry under extreme pressure then fired... (not easy for a small studio like ours) I think it is pretty durable as built.. I may try and make it thinner next time and if we try paper clay (organic material in the clay burns out leaving the clay lighter and pores) I may try one with that..

I don't think there is an advantage to the added cost.. its just cheaper for me since I am the manufacturer.. I want to try coffee grinds (like the paper clay) in the clay so when it burns out it will be pores enough to brew coffee

I wonder if the heat shield tiles they use on the shuttle would work for this? Their single greatest feature would be light weight, second would be resistance to heat. I wonder how expensive the process and materials are?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Ringo on February 14, 2011, 04:07:32 PM: Did you throw that in one piece? That is a very large piece. I am a beginner with pottery, I can make coffee cups and small pieces. I look at what you made and say "WOW". To build that with vanes inside would be a challenge. Nice work.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on February 14, 2011, 04:39:45 PM: the shuttle heat shields are dry compressed then fired (I think) also they are made to insulate so the beans would be comfortably cool inside while you get hotter and hotter (under the collar) trying to raise the temperature of the outside

I threw it in two pieces..
1: the strait cylinder, to which I added the veins and a piece to hold the shaft
2: the top cap and vein pieces were added.. and all the holes punched in..
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Tex on February 14, 2011, 07:08:47 PM: Quote from: J.Jirehs Roaster on February 14, 2011, 04:39:45 PM
the shuttle heat shields are dry compressed then fired (I think) also they are made to insulate so the beans would be comfortably cool inside while you get hotter and hotter (under the collar) trying to raise the temperature of the outside

I threw it in two pieces..
1: the strait cylinder, to which I added the veins and a piece to hold the shaft
2: the top cap and vein pieces were added.. and all the holes punched in..

I was actually thinking of an internal heat source. Watlow has some interesting choices that would work, and with the insulating properties of the ceramic the profiles might be interesting?
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on February 15, 2011, 09:49:35 AM: Quote from: Tex on February 14, 2011, 07:08:47 PM
Quote from: J.Jirehs Roaster on February 14, 2011, 04:39:45 PM
the shuttle heat shields are dry compressed then fired (I think) also they are made to insulate so the beans would be comfortably cool inside while you get hotter and hotter (under the collar) trying to raise the temperature of the outside

I threw it in two pieces..
1: the strait cylinder, to which I added the veins and a piece to hold the shaft
2: the top cap and vein pieces were added.. and all the holes punched in..

I was actually thinking of an internal heat source. Watlow has some interesting choices that would work, and with the insulating properties of the ceramic the profiles might be interesting?

I was thinking how can I roast more coffee with out spending more money..

design you drum and I will let you know if I can make it...
Title: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on November 10, 2011, 07:59:47 PM: Keeping your roaster clean makes better cupping and avoids fire hazard

Pat
Title: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Monito on November 10, 2011, 08:03:38 PM: After cleaning roaster pics

Pat
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: smico on March 07, 2012, 09:40:39 PM: I have just finished temporary installation of hood over my HT. I can do more than few batches now without gas mask.
Sometime in spring I will drill a hole in the wall and make this installation permanent.

Version 1.1 - no bad smell in the garage at all.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on March 08, 2012, 01:56:46 PM: You went and got your own vent hood for your Hottop?

Cool!

8)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: smico on March 08, 2012, 02:23:58 PM: I started digging for old power supplies to scavange fans, but I saw this hood in Costco and ...
I like it very much.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on March 08, 2012, 02:34:01 PM: How is the CFM count?

:)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: PozzSka on March 09, 2012, 12:40:09 PM: Here's a couple shoddy photos I took with my phone...

(http://img52.imageshack.us/img52/7906/roasterwatch.th.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/52/roasterwatch.jpg/)
(http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/3096/beancheck.th.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/850/beancheck.jpg/)
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: Ray T on March 09, 2012, 01:54:10 PM: Quote from: PozzSka on March 09, 2012, 12:40:09 PM
Here's a couple shoddy photos I took with my phone...

([url]http://img52.imageshack.us/img52/7906/roasterwatch.th.jpg[/url]) ([url]http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/52/roasterwatch.jpg/[/url])
([url]http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/3096/beancheck.th.jpg[/url]) ([url]http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/850/beancheck.jpg/[/url])

Sweet roaster, but better pictures would be nice i drooled a bit ;D ok ok still drooling
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: peter on March 09, 2012, 02:11:20 PM: Quote from: Ray T on March 09, 2012, 01:54:10 PM
Quote from: PozzSka on March 09, 2012, 12:40:09 PM
Here's a couple shoddy photos I took with my phone...

([url]http://img52.imageshack.us/img52/7906/roasterwatch.th.jpg[/url]) ([url]http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/52/roasterwatch.jpg/[/url])
([url]http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/3096/beancheck.th.jpg[/url]) ([url]http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/850/beancheck.jpg/[/url])

Sweet roaster, but better pictures would be nice i drooled a bit ;D ok ok still drooling

He's related to B|Fuzzy.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: shakin_jake on March 17, 2012, 12:48:22 AM: Nice roaster Nathan...I had the opportunity to roast with one almost two years ago to the day

http://www.shakinjake.blogspot.com/2010/04/roasting-green-coffee-beans-ym-2-ambex.html (http://www.shakinjake.blogspot.com/2010/04/roasting-green-coffee-beans-ym-2-ambex.html)

But roasting the smallest run you can with the Ambex, it's 2 lbs and poor old Jake can't slurp espresso fast enough to use the beans before they are history...so it looks like I will be sticking with my Hot Top for a bit more

http://www.shakinjake.blogspot.com/2010/03/sight-i-like-to-see-new-bag-of-green.html (http://www.shakinjake.blogspot.com/2010/03/sight-i-like-to-see-new-bag-of-green.html)

I really can't complain using the Hot Top B...it does everything I want a roaster to do, except of course, use gas for heat=:-)

Best,

Jake
Reddick Fla.
Of course it's dark, it's a suicide note
-Jeremy
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: mp on March 17, 2012, 04:15:52 AM: Nice roaster PozzSka.

Would be great to see it in all its glory with pictures from a decent camera.

:)
Title: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: PozzSka on March 17, 2012, 06:21:53 AM: I'll get some better pics soon, been busy, getting ready to move. Ahhh!

And to shakinjake, I can roast as little as 8oz if I'm very careful, but it is very hard to control the roast. I've done it before though. I regularly do 1lb batches.
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: shep on March 17, 2012, 06:33:20 AM: Had a chance to see a 240 kilo roaster in action yesterday. Very interesting operation. No photos allowed though. Talk about automation and computer control.

Shep
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: shakin_jake on March 17, 2012, 11:11:10 AM: Quote from: PozzSka on March 17, 2012, 06:21:53 AM
I'll get some better pics soon, been busy, getting ready to move. Ahhh!

And to shakinjake, I can roast as little as 8oz if I'm very careful, but it is very hard to control the roast. I've done it before though. I regularly do 1lb batches.

~~~~one pound roast lengths would be doable for me...I'm currently starting my roast batches with 280 grams (somewhere around a 1/2 pound) and I'm roasting again 5 days later. When I was using a Behmor I weighed out 12 ounces at a time and none of it ever seemed to get stale, so I would imagine a one pound roast length would do it for me

IIRC, the guy that I was roasting with using his roaster, he told me the YM-2 was set up to do 4 lb batches (approx., 2 kilos), but could or would do as little as 2 lbs but no less than 2 lbs., or so he said... Perhaps that was the official party line, although as you say Nathan, you are able to roast less

Yeah, anyways, I've always wanted to use a gas roaster at home...thought I might drift into a U.S. Roaster 1 lb. sample roaster but trying to come up with the entry price...the cash usually finds a different route to take. I've even thought about selling my motorcycle to fund the purchase,
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5218/5458202756_0accccda00_z.jpg)
as little I ride it anymore...but I can't seem to get enough courage to write the first draft for the sale ad...

Best,

Jake
Reddick Fla.
"Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it."
Mahatma Gandhi
Title: Re: Show Off your Roaster
Post by: shep on March 18, 2012, 04:35:13 AM: Quote from: shakin_jake on March 17, 2012, 11:11:10 AM
I've even thought about selling my motorcycle to fund the purchase,
([url]http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5218/5458202756_0accccda00_z.jpg[/url])
as little I ride it anymore...but I can't seem to get enough courage to write the first draft for the sale ad...

Best,

Jake
Reddick Fla.
"Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it."
Mahatma Gandhi

I was able to roast as little as one pound in a YM2 as well. It's been a few years, but I don't think there was much control at that level. Now you are really talking my language Jake, bikes and beans! I don't know: KTM vs a 1lb roaster...maybe KTM vs a 10lb roaster, that's more like it. Of course, I always wanted an Adventure; too bad I don't have a roaster to trade!

I tried to buy an old Probat L12 off of a local guy a couple weeks ago with no luck. You see, its an addiction...or a cult: you can never leave the fold!

Shep