Brewing Innovation: Integrating Pressure Sensors Into Next-Gen Coffee Makers

Overview

The Honeywell ABP2 Series pressure sensors are highly suitable for integration into premium coffee and espresso machines. With an extended pressure range from 2.5 mbar to 20 bar (0.036 psi to 290 psi), these sensors can accurately monitor both low-pressure and high-pressure processes within coffee machines. Their food-grade compliance and compatibility with liquid media make them ideal for applications involving direct contact with water and steam.

Sensor Placement and Functionality in High-End Coffee and Espresso Machines

Boiler Pressure Monitoring

In high-end espresso machines, maintaining precise boiler pressure is crucial for consistent steam generation and optimal brewing temperatures. The Honeywell ABP2 Series pressure sensors can be strategically installed on the boiler's steam outlet or within the steam chamber to monitor steam pressure accurately. These sensors are capable of operating effectively within a temperature range of -40°C to 110°C, making them suitable for the high-temperature environment of the boiler. By providing real-time pressure readings, the ABP2 sensors enable the maker's control system to regulate the heating element, ensuring that the steam pressure remains within the desired range, typically around 1.0 bar to 1.5 bar. This precise control not only enhances the quality of milk-based beverages by providing consistent steam for frothing but also improves safety by preventing over-pressurization of the boiler system.

Brew Pressure Profiling

The extraction pressure during espresso brewing significantly influences the flavor and quality of the final beverage. Integrating the ABP2 Series pressure sensors between the pump and the group head allows for precise monitoring and control of the brew pressure profile. These sensors offer a wide pressure measurement range, from as low as 2.5 mbar up to 20 bar, accommodating the typical espresso extraction pressures of 0 bar to 9 bar. With high accuracy (Total Error Band as low as ±1.5%FSS) and fast response times (pressure and temperature readings updated at approximately 200 Hz), Honeywell ABP2 sensors enable dynamic pressure profiling throughout the extraction process. This capability allows baristas and automated systems to implement advanced brewing techniques, such as pre-infusion and pressure ramping, leading to enhanced flavor extraction and a more refined espresso experience.

Water Line Pressure Monitoring

Stable water supply pressure is essential for consistent espresso extraction and overall machine performance. Installing the ABP2 Series pressure sensors at the water inlet enables continuous monitoring of incoming water pressure. These sensors are compatible with various liquid media, including water, due to their liquid media option featuring a protective gel coating that safeguards the electronics from moisture and condensation. By detecting fluctuations or drops in supply pressure, the sensor data can prompt the machine's control system to adjust pump operation or alert the user to potential issues, such as clogged filters or supply line problems. This proactive monitoring ensures that the machine operates within optimal parameters, maintaining beverage quality and reducing the risk of mechanical failures.

Solution

By incorporating the Honeywell ABP2 Series pressure sensors into these critical areas of high-end coffee and espresso machines, manufacturers can achieve precise control over brewing parameters, enhance beverage quality, and ensure reliable machine operation. The sensors' high accuracy, wide pressure range, and compatibility with food-grade applications make them an excellent choice for advanced coffee machine designs.

Advantages of ABP2 Sensors

Wide Pressure Range: 2.5 mbar to 20 bar (0.036 psi to 290 psi), accommodating various pressure monitoring needs within the machine.
High Accuracy: Total Error Band as low as ±1.5% Full Scale Span (FSS), ensuring precise pressure readings.
Temperature Resilience: Operates effectively within -40°C to 110°C, suitable for the thermal conditions in coffee machines.
Digital and Analog Outputs: Offers 24-bit digital (I²C or SPI) and ratiometric analog outputs for flexible integration with control systems.
Food-Grade Compliance: Constructed with NSF-169, LFGB, and BPA-compliant materials, ensuring safety in food and beverage applications.
Liquid Media Compatibility: Designed to handle non-corrosive liquids, including water and steam, without compromising sensor integrity.

The Advantage of ABP2 High Temperature/High Pressure Sensors

Selected ABP2 (ABP2 HP/HT release) pressure sensors intended for use within high pressure and/or high temperature applications have an extra layer of epoxy applied around the upper housing. This significantly increases the burst pressure and mitigates the risk of leakage when used within high pressure and high temperature applications. In addition, this extra layer of epoxy provides additional protection against vibration or shocks, e.g., when the sensor is used within an air compressor or when mounted near a motor or valve. When a motor is running, there is often vibration, or when a valve opens and closes, it can create a shock that may cause a pressure spike which, in turn, can damage sensors.

Sensor Placement

The Honeywell ABP2 HP/HT board-mount pressure sensor brings precision engineering and sleek design to the frontlines of gourmet espresso and coffee production. Its food-grade gel and epoxy-sealed housing ensure compliance and durability in contact with coffee oils and steam. Sleekly integrated into the machine's control board, the ABP2 sensors are strategically positioned. As the diagram illustrates, these Honeywell board-mount sensors work together to deliver fast, reliable pressure feedback that empowers advanced PID algorithms to elevate every shot. With its ultra-low power draw, miniature footprint, and legendary Honeywell quality, the ABP2 HP/HT isn't just a sensor—it's the core of next-generation espresso machines.

The diagram shows a coffee machine with callouts indicating sensor placement:

Boiling/Brewing Pressure: ABP2 HP/HT Pressure Sensors monitor boiling or brewing pressure (hot water) when placed near the brewing unit.
Water Level: ABP2 HP/HT Pressure Sensors can detect the water level in the coffee machine's tank (cold water) when placed in the tank.

By providing real-time pressure readings, the ABP2 sensors enable the maker's control system to regulate the heating element, ensuring that the steam pressure remains within the desired range.

Integrating the ABP2 Series pressure sensors between the pump and the group head allows for precise monitoring and control of the brew pressure profile.

Warning: Improper Installation

Consult with local safety agencies and their requirements when designing a machine control link, interface, and all control elements that affect safety.
Strictly adhere to all installation instructions.

Failure to comply with these instructions could result in death or serious injury.

Warranty/Remedy

Honeywell warrants goods of its manufacture as being free of defective materials and faulty workmanship during the applicable warranty period. Honeywell's standard product warranty applies unless agreed to otherwise by Honeywell in writing; please refer to your order acknowledgement or consult your local sales office for specific warranty details. If warranted goods are returned to Honeywell during the period of coverage, Honeywell will repair or replace, at its option, without charge those items that Honeywell, in its sole discretion, finds defective. The foregoing is buyer's sole remedy and is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, including those of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. In no event shall Honeywell be liable for consequential, special, or indirect damages.

While Honeywell may provide information or engineering support for its products through Honeywell personnel, literature, and website, it is the buyer's sole responsibility to determine the suitability of the Honeywell product(s) for the buyer's requirements.

Specifications may change without notice. The information we supply is believed to be accurate as of this writing. However, Honeywell assumes no responsibility for its use.

For More Information

Honeywell Sensing Solutions services its customers through a worldwide network of sales offices and distributors. For application assistance, current specifications, pricing, or the nearest Authorized Distributor, visit our website or call:

USA/Canada: +1 302 613 4491
Latin America: +1 305 805 8188
Europe: +44 1344 238258
Japan: +81 (0) 3-6730-7152
Singapore: +65 6355 2828
Greater China: +86 4006396841

Honeywell Sensing Solutions
830 East Arapaho Road
Richardson, TX 75081
www.honeywell.com

For more details on application notes, visit: automation.honeywell.com/hss

	Honeywell ABP2 Series Pressure Sensors for Next-Gen Coffee Makers Explore how Honeywell ABP2 Series pressure sensors enhance premium coffee and espresso machines by providing precise pressure monitoring for boiler, brew, and water line applications. Learn about their advanced features, food-grade compliance, and impact on beverage quality and machine performance.
	Brewing Innovation: Integrating Pressure Sensors Into Next-Gen Coffee Makers Application brief detailing how Honeywell ABP2 Series pressure sensors enhance next-generation coffee and espresso machines by enabling precise control over brewing parameters, improving beverage quality, and ensuring reliable operation.
	Brewing Innovation: Integrating Pressure Sensors into Next-Gen Coffee Makers This application brief details how Honeywell's ABP2 Series pressure sensors enhance premium coffee and espresso machines by providing precise monitoring of brewing pressure, steam pressure, and water supply, leading to improved beverage quality, consistency, and machine reliability.
	Honeywell ABP2 Pressure Sensors for Next-Gen Coffee Makers: Application Note Explore how Honeywell's ABP2 Series pressure sensors enhance premium coffee and espresso machines by providing precise monitoring of boiler pressure, brew pressure, and water line pressure. Learn about their wide pressure range, high accuracy, temperature resilience, and food-grade compliance for improved beverage quality and machine reliability.
	Honeywell ABP2 Series Pressure Sensors for Next-Generation Coffee Makers Application brief detailing how Honeywell ABP2 Series pressure sensors enhance performance, quality, and safety in premium coffee and espresso machines through precise monitoring of boiler pressure, brew pressure, and water lines.
	Honeywell ABP2 Series Pressure Sensors for Next-Gen Coffee Makers Application brief detailing how Honeywell ABP2 Series pressure sensors enhance performance, quality, and safety in premium coffee and espresso machines through precise pressure monitoring.
	Honeywell ABP2 Series Pressure Sensors for Next-Gen Coffee Makers: Application Brief Explore how Honeywell's ABP2 Series pressure sensors enhance gourmet coffee and espresso machines. This application brief details their integration for precise boiler pressure, brew pressure profiling, and water line monitoring, highlighting advantages like wide pressure range, high accuracy, and food-grade compliance.
	Brewing Innovation: Integrating Honeywell ABP2 Pressure Sensors into Next-Gen Coffee Makers Application brief detailing how Honeywell ABP2 Series pressure sensors enhance performance, quality, and safety in high-end coffee and espresso machines through precise monitoring of boiler pressure, brew pressure, and water line pressure.