Does Bezzera BZ99/Livia 90 have preinfusion?

#1: Post by **javanutter** » March 21st, 2010, 4:43 pm

Hi,

Can anyone can tell me if my BZ99 has preinfusion and if so can it be adjusted?

Thanks

#2: Post by **another_jim** » March 21st, 2010, 6:23 pm

No, it does not have preinfusion.

Yes, you can adjust it by changing dose or basket size -- the more space between the top of the puck and the shower screen, the longer the dwell time (the time from turning on the pump to seeing the first drops). Pick a basket whose depth gets you 5 seconds dwell with the dose you normally use.

Non-existent stuff is the easiest to adjust.

#3: Post by HB » March 21st, 2010, 6:30 pm

To elaborate on Jim's point, espresso machines like the BZ99 rely on gicleurs (calibrated orifice) to slow the pressure build up. This, and the naturally slower pressurization of vibratory pumps, is frequently referred to as progressive preinfusion in marketing literature. Slower pressurization may enhance the "forgiveness factor", but attention to dosing and adequate headspace as Jim suggests will help consistency even more.