Slayer Professional Series User manual

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
Slayer Steam X
Professional Espresso Machine Series
2-Group and 3-Group Models
USER MANUAL 1.0
FIRST DRAFT JANUARY 19, 2018

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
COPYRIGHT INFO
COPYRIGHT © 2016 BY SEATTLE ESPRESSO MACHINE CORPORATION
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE
REPRODUCED, DISTRIBUTED, OR TRANSMITTED IN ANY FORM OR
BY ANY MEANS WITHOUT THE PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION OF
THE PUBLISHER, EXCEPT IN THE CASE OF NONCOMMERCIAL USES
PERMITTED BY COPYRIGHT LAW. FOR PERMISSION REQUESTS,
CONTACT THE PUBLISHER.
SEATTLE ESPRESSO MACHINE CORPORATION
6133 6TH AVENUE SOUTH
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON, USA 98108
SLAYERESPRESSO.COM
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
SLAYER MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES WITH
RESPECT TO THE CONTENTS OF THIS PUBLICATION. INFORMATION
CONTAINED HEREIN IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. EVERY
PRECAUTION HAS BEEN TAKEN IN THE PREPARATION OF THIS MANUAL;
NEVERTHELESS, SLAYER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ERRORS
OR OMISSIONS OR ANY DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THIS
INFORMATION.
READ THIS MANUAL COMPLETELY BEFORE INSTALLING AND OPERATING
YOUR SLAYER STEAM X ESPRESSO MACHINE. INCORRECT INSTALLATION AND
OPERATION MAY RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE EQUIPMENT, PERSONAL INJURY,
OR EVEN DEATH. DISREGARDING THE INSTRUCTIONS CONTAINED HEREIN
INDEMNIFIES SLAYER FROM ALL RESULTING DAMAGES AND MAY VOID THE
EQUIPMENT WARRANTY.
FOR ADDITIONAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS, SEE THE SAFETY ADVISORY
ON PAGE #7.

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
1 Slayer Steam X
3 Table of Contents
4 Welcome
5 Resources
6 Warranty Information
7 Safety Advisory
8 Water Treatment Requirements
9 Recommended Tools & Accessories
10 Installation
11 Step 1: Prepare Site
12 Step 2: Unpack Equipment
13 Step 3: Connect Plumbing
14 Step 4: Connect Power
15 Step 5: Fill Tanks
15 Step 6: Turn On Elements
16 Using Slayer Steam X
17 Espresso Basics
20 Factory Settings
21 The Barista Dashboard™
24 Prepare Espresso
25 Steam Milk
26 Use Hot Water Tap
26 Adjust Hot Water Temperature
26 Adjust Drain Tray
27 Adjust Brew Pump Pressure
27 Adjust Brew Volumes
28 Adjust Brew Tank Temperatures
28 Adjust Steam Tank Pressure
29 Adjust Hot Water Dose
29 Adjust Hot Water Temperature
30 Other Menu Actions
33 Cleaning & Preventative Maintenance
34 Clean Your Machine
34 Clean the Steam Wands
35 General Grouphead Care
35 Backflush the Groupheads
36 Backflush the Groupheads, continued
37 Fast Clean
38 Part Diagrams
Table of Contents

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
Established in 1997 the Slayer story catalog of hand crafted machines continues to grow
and meet the demands of Slayer users. The second machine in the new Steam series,
Steam X celebrates what you have come to love in Slayer, exceptional design, durability
and consistent results for high volume cafes. When the details matter, this back to
basics model is a barflow dream, with professional features that streamline beverage
production with a moderate entry into ownership.
Jason Prefontaine founded Slayer when he had an idea for revolutionizing espresso, but
that was just the beginning. The Steam series is the result of his continued commitment
to Make Coffee Better⊤м. Expanding the Slayer portfolio of professional equipment, we
now turn to the milk-dominated world of high-volume coffee business with the same
inventive approach that we first took to espresso.
Slayer Steam X lever activated, dual volumetrics in each group head and numerous
time-saving features. A must have model for cafe chains that are looking to scale cup
consistency and guest engagement in high volume cafes.
Research and Development is led by Jason Prefontaine, Chris Flechtner, and the
Experience Team, Steam is the result of a creative collaboration between this dedicated
group and many talented friends in the industry. When industry professionals talk, Slayer
listens with our most powerful tool being the advise of professional baristas, coffee
people and technicians.
Welcome

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
For quick installation, see the QUICK START GUIDE that was included with your machine upon delivery located in the clear packing envelope taped on the lid of your crate.
For everything else, contact your authorized Slayer reseller or the appropriate party listed below.
TECHNICAL SUPPORT & PARTS
[e-mail]
SALES
[e-mail]
MARKETING
[e-mail]
TRAINING & EDUCATION
[e-mail]
ORDERS
[e-mail]
SHIPPING
[e-mail]
Resources

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
Slayer provides a 15-month (fifteen month) warranty on all equipment and parts,
beginning at the date of shipment from the Seattle headquarters. All equipment
and parts are warranted to be free from defect in material or workmanship. Unless
otherwise specified in writing, this warranty covers materials only (e.g. equipment,
parts) and excludes labor, shipping, and any other costs.
This warranty does not cover accidental damage to equipment, abuse of
equipment, or improper use of equipment.“Improper use”includes, but is not
limited to, the operation of a machine with inadequately treated water and/or the
operation of a machine with inadequate water supply. Any and all damage resulting
from inadequate water treatment is expressly excluded from the coverage of this
warranty. Read “Water Treatment Requirements”on page #8 for information about
water-related issues.
Damage resulting from improper installation of equipment is expressly excluded
from this warranty.
Warranty coverage does not include parts that are subject to normal wear and tear,
as determined by Slayer. These include, but are not limited to, shower screens,
portafilter gaskets, expansion or anti-suction valves, and preventative maintenance
parts. Warranty coverage excludes glass or plastic parts.
This warranty will immediately expire if you or a third party performs faulty
maintenance, excessive use, or neglect of necessary service. This will include any
instances in which, following the occurrence of a defect, you fail to immediately take
all suitable measures to limit damage to the equipment and/or fail to provide Slayer
with an opportunity to remedy the defect.
Slayer’s sole responsibility and liability under the warranty set forth herein is limited
to, in Slayer’s sole discretion, repair or replacement of defective parts. Unless
otherwise specified in writing, this excludes labor, shipping, and any other costs.
To the fullest extent permitted by applicable Washington State (USA) laws, Slayer’s
warranty set forth herein is limited to the original purchaser of the equipment.
Slayer does not, directly or indirectly, offer any warranty to any other person, unless
otherwise agreed in writing.
Except as expressly provided herein, all goods are provided to you as they are.
Slayer disclaims all representations and warranties, whether expressed or implied,
including warranties of title, non-infringement, merchantability, and fitness for a
particular purpose.
Warranty claims must be authorized by a Slayer representative prior to repair or
remedial action.
Warranty Information

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
This guide includes important instructions about safe espresso machine installation,
operation, and maintenance. Read this manual completely before installing and
operating your Slayer espresso machine. Incorrect installation and operation may
result in damage to the equipment, personal injury, or even death. Disregarding the
instructions contained herein indemnifies Slayer from all resulting damages and
may void the machine’s warranty.
Shipping is coordinated by the customer and performed by a third party. Slayer
is not responsible for damage incurred during transport. Upon receiving your
machine, carefully inspect all packaging, equipment, and accessories for visible
damage. Photograph any visible damage and immediately contact your shipping
company representative. Comply with shipping company regulations. Do not
connect your machine to power, water, or drainage until all issues have been
resolved or your Slayer representative or reseller instructs you to do so. Failure to
resolve issues before using equipment may result in further damage or injury.
Installation should be performed by qualified personnel only and must comply
with all regulations and requirements of the authorities in your area. If guidance
is needed to safely install your machine, contact your Slayer representative or
reseller.
It is critical that an appropriately-rated and grounded electrical plug is used to
supply your machine with power. This is essential for the safe operation and use of
the equipment. Contact your Slayer representative or reseller with questions about
this requirement. If you are unsure about the safety of the electrical configuration,
do not attempt to install your machine.
Your Slayer espresso machine should only be used for the functions it was
designed to perform. Using your machine outside of its defined functionality – as
it is described in the “Using Slayer” section on page #16 of this guide – may be a
safety hazard, resulting in property damage, physical injury, or even death, and will
immediately void the warranty.
Slayer espresso machines are electrical appliances that should be used in a safe
manner appropriate to devices of their kind:
• Do not connect your Slayer espresso machine to electrical power through an
extension cord. The machine must be directly connected to an appropriately- rated
and grounded power source.
• Do not position the power cord in walkways or other high-traffic areas.
• Slayer espresso machines are designed to be used indoors. When using your
machine outdoors, take precautionary measures to protect it from moisture,
humidity, and other natural elements.
• Before performing service on your machine, disconnect the power
source.
Safety Advisory

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
Water Treatment Requirements
Improper water treatment is the most frequent cause of espresso machine damage.
Water is complex and varies significantly between regions, so take great care to
test the water quality at your location and adjust as necessary. Employ professional
help to evaluate your water and administer treatments.
When evaluating water quality, the two most important factors to consider are
calcium carbonate and chloride:
Calcium Carbonate: a dissolved mineral that determines the “hardness” or
“softness” of water. The desirable range of hardness is 4-5 grains. Over time,
calcium carbonate accumulates as a hard substance, called “scale”, and will inhibit
the flow of water. Machines subjected to “harder”water (greater than 5 grains) will
accumulate scale faster and require maintenance earlier.
Chloride: chlorine combined with an electron from a negatively charged ion. There
are many types of chlorides, including calcium chloride, magnesium chloride,
sodium chloride, etc. Chlorides produce salts that impart a strong taste, which
alters the flavor of the espresso. Chlorides also encourage pitting corrosion, which
causes damage to the machine.
Your water filtration company will create a treatment plan based on your water
needs. Choose a filtration company that has solutions for addressing issues related
to both calcium carbonate and chloride.
Common treatment options include carbon filtration, ion exchange, and reverse
osmosis:
Carbon Filtration: a process by which water passes through the granular activated
carbon, which attracts and retains many chemicals in the water that have an
unpleasant color, taste or odor. Carbon filtration is necessary for all machines. For
water with 4-5 grains of hardness, carbon filtration is likely the only necessary water
treatment.
Ion Exchange: a process by which water passes through an ion exchange
system, where undesirable mineral components are retained and more desirable
substances such as sodium are released. An ion exchange system should be used
in combination with a carbon filtration system and is especially beneficial for water
in the range of 6-9 grains of hardness. This system is relatively inexpensive and
effective in removing inorganic substances. It does not, however, remove organic
substances, such as bacteria.
Reverse Osmosis with Blend-Back Valve (or Remineralized RO): a process by
which water is forced through a semi-permeable membrane with selective pore
sizes at high pressure, then blended with the appropriate amount of desired
minerals. Reverse osmosis may be a good solution for water in the range of 6-9
grains of hardness and is mandatory for water above 9 grains. When blending
minerals with the filtered water, target a TDS (total dissolved solids) value of of
75-125 ppm. Experiment with various TDS levels to determine what produces your
preferred taste.
All Slayer espresso machines need to be connected to a carbon water filter to
remove chlorine, sediments, odor, and undesirable tastes. This requirement is in
addition to any other necessary water filtration systems.
Filtration requirements may vary seasonally. Water should be tested during each
season to determine the best filtration plan. Once a filtration method has been
selected, take note of the filter’s peak capabilities. Contact the equipment vendor
to inquire about the life expectancy of the filters, then schedule replacement and
reinstallation accordingly.
IMPORTANT: Every time a new water filter is installed, thoroughly rinse the filter before
attaching it to your machine or pump. Run water from the supply line through the filter
and down a drain for at least 2 minutes. Skipping this step will cause damage to your
machine. Damage to or failure of your machine due to inadequately treated water is not
covered under warranty.

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
Recommended Tools & Accessories
BEVERAGE PREPARATION
• Espresso grinder
• Scale (must measure in 0.1-gram increments)
• Tamper (must have a 58-millimeter base diameter)
• Shot glasses
• Steaming pitcher
• Soft towels
EQUIPMENT CARE & MAINTENANCE
• Allen keys
• crescent wrench
• flat-head screwdriver
• Grouphead brush
• Needle-nose pliers
• #2 Phillips-head screwdriver
• Pick or awl
• Pliers
• 9/16-inch socket wrench
• Adjustable wrench
• Approved espresso machine cleaner
• Approved espresso machine steam wand cleaner
• Non-abrasive surface cleaner
• Slayer lubricant
• Teflon tape

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
Installation
Only qualified service personnel should
install Slayer espresso machines. Incorrect
installation may result in injury and/or damage
to the equipment. Please read the “Safety
Advisory” on page #7 before beginning
installation.
Install your Slayer espresso machine with the following ordered steps:
11 Step 1: Prepare Site
12 Step 2: Unpack Equipment
13 Step 3: Connect Plumbing
14 Step 4: Connect Power
15 Step 5: Fill Tanks
15 Step 6: Turn On Elements

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
Step 1: Prepare Site
Your installation site will require access to power, water, and drainage. Building
regulations vary by region, so confirm local requirements before connecting your
machine.
Using quality, treated water is essential to achieving the best possible results
when preparing coffee and may also extend the life of your machine. Read
“Water Treatment Requirements”on page #8 for information about avoiding and
addressing water-related issues.
Your Slayer Steam X machine needs to be installed on a structure that is capable of
supporting its weight, including the weight of the water, once filled:
STEAM WITH ALL TANKS FILLED
2-group 100 kilograms (220 pounds)
3-group 140 kilograms (305 pounds)
Use the following diagrams to locate and drill holes in the counter for the power
cords and plumbing lines. Note that electrical plugs vary in size and a larger hole
may be required to accommodate the main power cord.
Optional: prepare two (2) or more identical block risers, each with a maximum
height of 15 centimeters (6 inches) and capable of supporting 140 kilograms (305
pounds). The risers should be designed to elevate the machine approximately
15 centimeters (6 inches) above the counter without touching the drain tray or
wing legs. Position the risers on the prepared counter, according to the following
diagrams.
44.5 in / 113 cm
Risers
3.25 in /
8.5 cm
Ø 3 in /
7.5 cm
28 in / 71 cm
13.75 in / 35 cm
35 in / 89 cm
Risers
3.25 in /
8.5 cm
Ø 3 in /
7.5 cm
28 in / 71 cm
13.75 in / 35 cm
3-group
2-group
Drip tray edge
Drip tray edge

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
Step 2: Unpack Equipment
Your Slayer Steam X machine will arrive in a lidded wooden crate, bolted to a pallet at
the base. Unpack with the following steps. At least three (3) able-bodied people will be
needed to lift your machine.
INCLUDED PARTS
• Four (4) rubber feet
REQUIRED TOOLS & SUPPLIES
• #2 Phillips-head screwdriver
• Knife or box cutter
• 9/16-inch socket wrench
• Optional: two (2) or more identical block risers with a maximum height of 15
centimeters (6 inches), capable of supporting 305 pounds (140 kilograms)
PROCEDURE
1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to loosen and remove the eight (8) screws
found along the lower edge of the crate, two (2) at each corner, then lift the
crate from the pallet.
2. Remove the plastic sheet from the machine and identify all crate contents:
• Slayer Steam X espresso machine
• Attached power cords (2), plumbing lines (2), and drain hoses (2)
• External rotary pump
• Accessories box
3. Set aside the accessories box.
4. Locate the two (2) bolts and two (2) nuts that secure the pump to the pallet, then
use a wrench to loosen and remove the nuts; set aside the pump.
5. Use a knife or box cutter to remove the banding from the machine body. To
protect the machine during installation, keep all other packing material in place.
6. Locate the four (4) bolts that are threaded into the two (2) wing legs, then use a
9/16-inch socket wrench to loosen and remove all bolts.
7. Pull the locking pins on both sides of the drain tray, one at a time, to move the
drain tray to the highest position (if not already in the highest position); release
the pins to set the tray height.
8. Employ the assistance of at least three people to lift the machine up and away
from the crate base, minding the attached cords, lines, and hoses.
Lift only from the chassis; do not handle the drain tray, cup rail, or any part
of the wing legs. To protect yourself during this step, wear thick gloves or
drape a small towel over each wrist and forearm.
9. Suspend the machine with the wing channels located directly above the
prepared counter holes. If using risers, lower the machine onto the risers. The
risers should support the chassis without touching the drain tray.
10. Locate the four (4) rubber feet inside of the accessories box and install them on
the wing legs. Later, adjust the feet individually to level the machine.
11. Remove the packing material from the attached cords, lines, and hoses, then
run them through the wing channels and counter holes.
12. Lower the machine into the prepared position and remove all packing material.
13. Lift to remove the four (4) cup tray panels; set aside.

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
Step 3: Connect Plumbing
Your Slayer Steam X machine will arrive with two (2) plumbing lines and two (2) drain
hoses attached. One (1) additional plumbing line will arrive inside of the accessories
box. A water treatment system is required, but not included. Read “Water Treatment
Requirements”on page #8 for information about avoiding and addressing water-related
issues.
INCLUDED PARTS
• Two (2) drain hoses with an inside diameter of 5/8 inch (16 millimeters)
• One (1) 30 inch by 3/8 inch braided hose (in North America, includes 3/8-inch
compression fitting)
• Two (2) 60 inch by 3/8 inch braided hoses, color-coded
• External rotary pump
REQUIRED TOOLS & SUPPLIES
• Water treatment system (see page #8 for recommendations)
• Adjustable wrench
PROCEDURE
1. Install your water treatment system according to the instructions provided by the
manufacturer, then turn off the main water supply.
Before use, all treatment systems should be flushed with water for at least
two (2) minutes.
2. Ensure that the machine is in position, with all cords, lines, and hoses running
through the wing channels and counter holes (per previous steps).
3. Run the two (2) drain hoses to an open gravity drain, ensuring that the lines
always slope downwards.
4. Locate the 30 inch by 3/8 inch braided hose inside of the accessories box
and use it to connect the water treatment system to the external rotary pump,
tightening with a wrench.
5. Locate the two (2) color-coded braided hoses, attached to the machine, and the
color-coded connections on the pump.
6. Connect each hose to its color-matched connection on the pump, tightening
with a wrench.
Do not turn on the main water supply.
Water filter
Water line in
Shut-off

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
Step 4: Connect Power
Your Slayer Steam X machine will ship with the power configuration requested at the
time of purchase. In most cases, this will include a plug end on the power cord. If your
machine does not include a plug, do not attempt to wire it yourself. Only an electrician or
approved technician should wire the power cord into an appropriately-rated plug end.
INCLUDED PARTS
• External rotary pump
PROCEDURE
1. Ensure that both steam actuators are in the“off” position and the drain hoses
and water lines are connected (per previous steps).
2. Insert the main power plug into an appropriately-rated and grounded receptacle
3. Locate the quick connect plug, found on one of the electrical cords that extends
from your machine, and insert it into the matching plug unit on the pump motor.
Do not move the steam actuators to the “on” position.
Do not turn on the main water supply.
Main power
Quick connect plug
Purge
Off
On

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
Step 5: Fill Tanks
PROCEDURE
1. Ensure that both steam actuators are in the“off” position, the drain hoses and
water lines are connected, and the cup tray panels have been removed (per
previous steps).
2. Turn on the main water supply.
3. Check the inside of the machine for leaks or collected water.
4. Turn on the power to your machine by pressing the power switch; the steam
tank will begin to fill.
Filling will take 1-2 minutes and is complete when the pump motor ceases
to work and a “click” is heard.
5. Wait until the steam tank has filled completely, then fill the groupheads by
moving the brew actuators left, to the“on” position, until water begins to flow.
Factory settings for the volumetrics are set (reference Factory Settings on
page #20). You may need to repeat this step multiple times, until water
begins to flow.
6. Move the brew actuators right, to the“off” position.
7. Activate the electronics by pressing any one of the jog wheels on the Barista
Dashboard.
Do not move the steam actuators to the “on” position.
Do not engage the white heating element breaker.
PROCEDURE
1. Ensure that both steam actuators are in the“off” position, the cup tray panels
have been removed, and the tanks have filled completely (per previous steps).
2. Turn on the heating elements by moving the heating element breaker left, to the“on”
position.
Do not move the steam actuators to the “on” position.
3. Wait until the machine has heated fully, then move one of the steam actuators
down, to the“on” position. If steam is produced, proceed to the next step. If no
steam is produced, wait several minutes before repeating this step.
4. Check the inside of the machine for leaks or collected water.
The anti-suction valve on the steam tank may sputter and release small
drops of water when first building pressure. During your inspection, check
for large pools or steady streams of water.
5. Install the four (4) cup tray panels.
Step 6: Turn On Elements
Breaker
Power

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
Using Slayer Steam X
Your new machine features sophisticated
technologies that are designed to improve
numerous aspects of coffee beverage production.
These innovations will promote efficiency,
accuracy, and comfort on every bar where
Slayer Steam X is found. Whether this is your first
espresso machine or the latest in a long career,
our instructions should serve as a helpful baseline
for getting the most out of Steam X.
We can’t wait to see what you do with it.
Contents
17 Espresso Basics
20 Slayer Steam X Factory Settings
21 The Barista Dashboard™
24 Prepare Espresso
25 Steam Milk
26 Use Hot Water Tap
26 Adjust Drain Tray
27 Adjust Brew Pump Pressure
27 Adjust Shot Volumes
28 Adjust Brew Tank Temperature
28 Adjust Steam Tank Pressure
29 Adjust Hot Water Dose
29 Adjust Hot Water Temperature
30 Other Menu Options

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
Espresso Basics
Coffee“beans”are the seeds from berry-like fruits that grow on shrubs in equatorial
regions. After picking and processing, the beans are roasted, ground, and dissolved
in water to yield a coffee beverage.
Brewing espresso is a unique method of coffee extraction in which water is added
to ground coffee under intense pressure. As a result, the beverage, when compared
to filter coffee (e.g. pour-over, immersion), contains a higher concentration of
dissolved coffee, feels heavier in the mouth, and asserts stronger flavor.
The espresso machine is the preferred equipment for preparing espresso. Therein,
coffee is secured, water is heated, pressure is applied, filtration occurs, and the
beverage is dispensed. The entire process takes less than one (1) minute.
Many variables affect espresso extraction and therefore require the attention of
the barista. Consider the following generalizations and guidelines when preparing
espresso.
COFFEE ORIGIN
Coffee plants are cultivated around the world in equatorial regions that have varying
climates and growing conditions. Every location – country, locale, farm, and lot –
produces coffee with distinct characteristics that contribute to discernible differences in
beverage flavor. Slayer Steam X is well-suited for preparing coffee from any single origin,
as well as blends of coffees from varying origins.
PLANT VARIETY
Like other fruits (e.g. apples, oranges), coffee beans may come from one of
many varieties of the same plant. Common varieties include Typica, Bourbon,
Heirloom, and Caturra, among others. Every variety produces coffee with distinct
characteristics that contribute to discernible differences in beverage flavor.
PROCESSING METHOD
There are many unique processes by which coffee seeds may be separated from
the fruit containing them. Every process produces coffee with distinct characteristics
that contribute to discernible differences in beverage flavor. Note these examples:
• “Washed” process: increased acidity, enhanced flavor clarity, clean body
• “Natural” process: fruit-forward flavor, full body
• “Pulped natural”, “semi-washed”, and “honey” processes: borrowed
characteristics from washed and natural processes
GREEN COFFEE FRESHNESS
After it has been picked and processed, green (i.e. un-roasted) coffee has
a considerable shelf life. However, the potential quality of coffee beverages
deteriorates with the age of the green coffee. For best results, buy roasted coffee
from a trustworthy supplier that guarantees the freshness of its green coffee.
ROAST PROFILE
Roasting makes the dense, green coffee bean porous and soluble and is the first
step in preparing coffee for extraction. Coffee may be roasted to varying degrees
by a variety of technologies, each producing coffee with distinct characteristics that
contribute to discernible differences in beverage flavor.
Generally, the flavor of espresso prepared from light-roasted coffee will more
closely resemble the characteristics of its origin, variety, and processing method
(e.g.“bright”,“fruity”, etc.). Conversely, the flavor of espresso prepared from
dark-roasted coffee will more closely resemble the characteristics of the roasting
process (e.g. “smoky”). Typically over developed roast profiles do not exhibit the full
potential of your machine, nor the flavorful complexity of your coffee.

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
ROASTED COFFEE FRESHNESS
After roasting, coffee beans are increasingly vulnerable to deterioration. Preserve
freshness by storing in a sealed container in a cool, dark area. Ideally, use a
container that allows the outward flow of gas, which coffee releases as it ages,
but prevents the inward flow of oxygen. Espresso is generally most flavorful when
prepared with coffee that has “rested” for at least two (2) days after roasting but has
not exceeded three (3) weeks. These guidelines are especially important for dark-
roasted coffee, which deteriorates faster than light-roasted coffee.
GROUND PARTICLE SIZE
Preparing espresso requires finely-ground coffee and a professional grinder. When
setting up your grinder, target a setting that achieves the recommended beverage
yield with the recommended dose weight in the recommended brew time. Continue
reading for recommendations regarding these brewing parameters. Adjust grind as
necessary, noting these rules:
Finer grind setting (smaller particles):
• Longer extraction time
• Enhanced body
• Reduced clarity
Recommended when espresso tastes sour, feels thin, extracts quickly, or has no
crema.
Coarser grind setting (larger particles):
• Shorter extraction time
• Reduced body
• Enhanced clarity
Recommended when espresso tastes bitter, feels muddy, or extracts slowly.
DOSE WEIGHT
Dose weight refers to the amount of ground coffee used for a serving of espresso.
When considered alongside the beverage yield, dose weight is part of the brew
ratio, which correlates with the perceived strength of the espresso and influences
the extraction process. Slayer recommends using a scale to measure 18-21 grams
of ground coffee per espresso serving. Begin with 18 grams, then adjust dose
weight as necessary, noting these rules:
Larger coffee dose (more weight):
• Increased flavor intensity
• Longer extraction time
Recommended when espresso tastes sour, feels thin, extracts quickly, or has no
crema.
Smaller coffee dose (less weight):
• Decreased flavor intensity
• Shorter extraction time
Recommended when espresso tastes bitter, feels muddy, or extracts slowly.
BED DEPTH
Tamping ground coffee is essential to forming a puck through which water will
evenly flow. Instead of tamping to a specific pressure (e.g., 30 pounds), Slayer
recommends tamping to a specific depth in order to achieve the adequate
headspace between the coffee puck and the shower screen. To ensure consistent
results, target a tamp depth that levels the top of the tamper piston with the top of
the portafilter basket (approximately 1 centimeter).

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SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
WATER TEMPERATURE
At the factory, the brew tank temperature is set to 93° C (200° F). Coffee is best
brewed with water heated to 92-95° C (195-205° F).
Begin with the factory setting, then adjust the temperature as necessary, noting
these rules:
Higher temperature:
• Increased extraction rate
• Enhanced acidity
Recommended when espresso tastes sour.
Lower temperature:
• Decreased extraction rate
• Reduced acidity
Recommended when espresso tastes bitter.
To adjust the brew temperature, see instructions under Using Slayer > Adjust Brew
Temperature on page #26.
WATER PRESSURE
At the factory, the brew pump pressure is set to 9 bar. Generally, espresso is best
brewed with water pressurized to 6-10 bar. More dense coffees (such as those
grown at a higher elevation, processed with the “washed” method, and/or roasted
light) may endure higher pressure, while less dense coffees (such as those grown
at a lower elevation, processed with the “natural” method, and/or roasted medium-
to-dark) prefer lower pressure.
To adjust the brew pump pressure, see instructions under “Using Slayer > Adjust Brew
Pump Pressure”on page #27.
BEVERAGE YIELD
Beverage yield refers to the weight or volume of a serving of espresso. When
considered alongside the dose weight, beverage yield is part of the brew ratio,
which correlates with the perceived strength of the espresso and influences the
extraction process. Slayer recommends using a scale or graduated shot glasses to
measure 25-40 grams or 1.0-1.5 fluid ounces of espresso per serving. Begin with
35 grams or 1.25 fluid ounces, then adjust beverage yield as necessary, noting
these rules:
Larger yield (more weight or volume):
• Decreased flavor intensity
• Longer extraction time
Recommended when espresso lacks clarity.
Smaller yield (less weight or volume):
• Increased flavor intensity
• Longer extraction time
Recommended when espresso lacks body.
BREW TIME
Brew time refers to the total duration of extraction. Begin with 25 seconds, then
adjust brew time as necessary, noting these rules:
Longer brew time:
• Higher extraction yield
Recommended when espresso tastes sour.
Shorter brew time:
• Lower extraction yield
Recommended when espresso tastes bitter.

20
SLAYER STEAM X USER MANUAL
SLAYER STEAM X FACTORY SETTINGS
Brew Tank Temperature 93° C (200° F)
Brew Pump Pressure 9 bar
Steam X Tank Pressure 1.7 bar
Volumetrics Dose 1/Dose 2 30/ 60
Slayer Steam X Factory Settings