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Last active November 19, 2024 12:52
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Zerno Z1 Community FAQs

1. How do I remove the stationary and rotary burrs, and where can I find the magnets?

To remove the stationary burr, use the two small magnets provided in the box. Place the magnets next to each other on the stationary burr’s face, and lift gently; this should loosen it enough to pull it out. For the rotary burr, firmly tap the auger against the palm of your hand to release it.

2. Why does my unit not have radial screws?

Radial screws were phased out starting with batch 5, so they are no longer needed or included in the newer models.

3. Positioning the Stationary (Fixed) and Rotary (Top) Burrs

Most grinders are designed to function without needing specific burr placements. For example, in the Z1 with CV2s burrs, the stationary burr is mounted on the grinder body while the rotary burr is positioned in the carrier.

4. Where can I find a diagram for lubrication and what type of lubricant should I use?

Refer to... umm... hmmm... Vel help pls... for a detailed diagram highlighting parts that need lubrication. Use Molykote 111 or a similar high-quality lubricant as specified.

5. How can I manage retention and exchange when grinding?

When grinding fine for espresso, some grounds may retain inside. To release them, give the funnel a firm tap with your palm. Flick the chute a few times as well, but hold it steady to prevent it from falling into the catch cup.

6. Burr Seasoning (Note for CV2s Burrs)

Seasoning burrs is debated and can vary depending on burr type and coating. Generally:

  • SSP MPv1 "Brew" and MPv2 "Multipurpose" burrs: 2-3 kg (4-5 lbs)
  • SSP HU "High Uniformity" burrs: 2-3 kg (4-5 lbs)
  • SSP CV2 with Silver Knight coating: up to 5.5-7 kg (12-15 lbs)
  • SSP CV3 with Red Speed coating: likely 2-3kg (4-5 lbs)

7. Installing Burrs with Regular Mounts

Use the screws from the accessory bag included with your unit. Check the box for a pouch containing spare parts such as burr screws, an Allen key, spare fuse, and SSP certificates.

8. What is the purpose of the foam inserts?

The foam inserts are intended for regular (non-blind) burrs. Place these inserts between the burr and the grinder body (or carrier) to prevent coffee particles from collecting behind the burrs.

9. Carrier / Auger 180-Degree Click

When inserting the rotary carrier/auger, ensure proper alignment. If the auger touches the stationary burr with light pressure, it’s correctly aligned. If it requires force, rotate the auger until it clicks, sinks onto the shaft, and engages properly.

10. What is the "chirp-to-lock" measurement, and how do I optimize it?

The "chirp-to-lock" refers to the difference in microns on the adjustment dial between two points:

  1. The "chirp" point – where the burrs first make contact, producing a characteristic sound.
  2. The lock point – where the burrs fully touch and lock with the grinder powered off.

This measurement typically ranges from 5 to 50 microns and depends on how tightly the collar is secured past the chirp point.

However, the "chirp-to-lock" distance may vary based on the orientation of the keyed auger on the grinder shaft. To achieve the best alignment:

  1. Follow the steps in FAQ #9 to lock the keyed auger onto the shaft properly, reassemble the front dial, and determine your current "chirp-to-lock" distance after zeroing the grinder.
  2. Flip the keyed auger 180 degrees and measure the "chirp-to-lock" distance again.
  3. Use the auger orientation that results in the smallest "chirp-to-lock" measurement for optimal alignment.

11. Why does my Z1 sound noisier than Will’s?

Will received a silent model.

12. Why can’t I find a set screw for my funnel?

The funnel does not require set screws.

13. I’m having trouble adjusting the grind finer with the grinder off.

Do not adjust finer with the grinder turned off. Always switch it on before making finer adjustments to avoid coffee particles becoming trapped between the burrs. You can adjust coarser with the grinder off.

14. My zero point seems off. What can I do?

If the burrs chirp, it may indicate either contact between the burrs or trapped coffee particles. The chirp sounds different in each case; refer to the video for guidance.

15. Why are beans getting stuck before reaching the burrs? I’m using five RDT sprays to reduce static.

To reduce static without causing bean clumping, use only one or two RDT sprays. Some older Z1 batches were equipped with a non-toothed pre-breaker that occasionally retained beans. The Zerno store now offers a V2 medium-speed auger with a toothed design to address this issue.

16. How do I know if my Z1 has a ionizer? Why was one not included?

Initial batches included a ionizer beneath the stationary burr, but the new chute design removes the need for one, so ionizers are no longer included in newer units.

17. Is the grinder "permanently aligned"?

The grinder's alignment is maintained by the middle section, which extends from the metal stand to just behind the coffee bean opening. Provided the burr surfaces are perfectly flat, this design ensures the grinder remains permanently aligned as long as the middle section remains untouched.

The following components can be disassembled, removed, and replaced without affecting the alignment:

  • Exterior metal shield
  • Motor
  • PCB
  • Switch
  • Gearbox
  • Stationary and rotary burr
  • Adjustment dial

18. What grind setting should I be using for X and Y with burrs Z?

See this spreadsheet for settings used by other owners

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