Differences in the groups between Ponte Vecchio, Zacconi Riviera and Elektra Microcasa

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dominico
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#1: Post by dominico »

From photos of all three they all appear to be very similar. Is it possible some of them are using the same group?

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peacecup
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#2: Post by peacecup »

The Ponte Veccio/Sama use a 45-mm diameter basket, among the smallest I know of. The doubles are deep though, and can hold up to 20g.

Some Riveras have used the 45-mm group I think, very similar to PV. I think others may have used the 49-mm group.

Elektra is 49 mm I think, definitely bigger than PV. The basic design is the same mechanically, but the Elektra groups have the piston assembly bolted on at the top of the group, whereas the PV is solid. This makes it easier to change piston seals on the Elektra because one can work without needing to compress the spring with a clamp.

The mechanics of these groups are simple an effective, and they are not prone to wearing out easily. The 45-mm group makes great espresso - I have not tried the larger ones.
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