E61 brew group
Tommy WinbergThe vast majority of espresso machines use E61 brew groups. The first espresso machine to use this new brew group was called the E61 and was created by Faema. It utilized a volumetric pump to provide the water with the ideal 9 bars of pressure and kept the pressure constant throughout the entire extraction, unlike lever machines. The invention became so popular that other coffee machine brands began producing their own machines, but now with E61 brew groups.
So, how do you know if your machine has an E61 brew group? Well, if you have a machine from our semi-professional segment, your espresso machine has an E61 brew group. If you have another machine, the easiest way is to simply do a quick internet search and you will have the answer in a few seconds. E61 brew groups are very common, so the probability that your machine has one is high.
Replacing the gasket & shower screen
Actually replacing the gasket and shower screen on an espresso machine is not that difficult. Once you have done it a few times, the routine becomes second nature, but if you are a beginner, it is common to find it a bit tricky. We have therefore created a video with our own service manager where he shows you how it's done. In the video below, you will find all the items he uses so that you can easily order what you need.
See how to do it in the clip!
Things you might need when replacing the gasket & shower screen
E61 group overhaul
A group overhaul can be advantageously performed when you feel that your espresso machine is not producing coffee as well as it once did. After 3-5 years, a set of gaskets and valves normally needs replacing. To increase the longevity of the group overhaul, it is beneficial to use silicone grease during the replacement. Below is a video where the entire process is demonstrated on a Rocket Espresso R58 with an E61 brew group.
Usually, you need an 8 mm group gasket when overhauling your espresso machine, but there are two indicators to guide you if you actually need a larger one.
If you have a very old espresso machine and/or it is quite worn, you usually need a larger gasket. If, after your last replacement of the gasket and shower screen, you notice that the portafilter handle does not point exactly straight out from the machine, i.e., 90° from the front of the espresso machine, you should use a larger gasket.
