Decode IMS competition filter basket codes: border, dose, shape, height, hole pattern, tamper compatibility and filtering technologies.
The descriptive product code of IMS competition filters tells you about some of the main characteristics of the filter.
In the example B70 2T C H26 E, every segment identifies a specific feature: border, dose, shape, height and hole pattern.
The border of the filter matches the portafilter and its dimensions indicate compatibility with the coffee machine.
The internal diameter of the filter body determines its compatibility with the tamper.
| Tamper | Border | Border diameter | Compatible machines and groups |
|---|---|---|---|
| 58 / 58.4 | B70 | Ø 70 mm | E61 and compatible groups like Bellezza, Bezzera, BFC, Bianchi, Brasilia, Breville The Oracle, D.I.D., ECM, Expobar, Faema, Fiorenzato, Flair Espresso 58, Grimac, Iberital, Kees Van Der Westen, La Marzocco, La Nuova Era, La Scala, Lelit, L'Orchestrale, Maro, Mavam, Meraki, Mr. Cafe, Nuova Simonelli, Profitec, Quality Espresso, Quick Mill, Rancilio, Rocket, Royal First, San Remo, Slayer, SV - SAB, Synesso, VFA, Vibiemme, Victoria Arduino, Wega. |
| 58 / 58.4 | B68 | Ø 68 mm | Carimali, Gaggia, La Cimbali. The body of B68 filters is the same as B70 filters, but with a border that is 2 mm narrower for a better fit in the portafilters of these brands. |
| 57 | B64 | Ø 64 mm | Lelit Anita, Diana, Anna. |
| 54 / 54.4 | B66 | Ø 66 mm | Dalla Corte, Izzo Lever, La San Marco Lever, Olympia, San Marco. |
| 53 | B65 | Ø 65 mm | Aram, La Spaziale, 9 Barista, Wega and Astoria with small group. |
| 53 / 53.4 | B62.5 | Ø 62.5 mm | Breville/Sage, Solis. |
| 51 | B60 | Ø 60 mm | Hi Brew H4C Barista, La Pavoni Post Millennium, Lelit Kate. |
| 51 | DL | Ø 60.5 mm | De Longhi, Smeg. |
| 49 | B58 | Ø 58 mm | La Pavoni Pre Millennium, Olympia Express Mina. |
Filter models are conventionally classified according to the diameter of the tamper used.
By convention, a filter can be of type 1T ("T" for "Tazza", the Italian word for cup) for a single dose of coffee, or of type 2T, two cups, for a double or triple dose.
Typically, filters for 1 cup are narrower to reduce the capacity of the filter.
The addition of another letter in the code determines the difference between filters.
C - for cylindrical filters with a convex bottom.
F - for cylindrical filters with a flat bottom.
The height of the filter, together with its shape and diameter, determines its capacity.
An approximate weight of ground coffee in grams is associated with each code in the catalogue. The actual capacity of a filter depends on many factors such as the coffee grind or the space that is left between the coffee puck and the showerhead screen.
For optimal distribution of holes in the bottom of the filter, IMS uses multiple hole-boring patterns.
Distance between holes: 2.00 mm
Distribution: rectangular pattern
Maximum number of holes: 481
Within a maximum Ø of 49 mm
Distance between holes: 1.73 mm
Distribution: hexagonal pattern
Maximum number of holes: 715
Within a maximum Ø of 49 mm
Distance between holes: 1.50 mm
Distribution: rectangular pattern
Maximum number of holes: 641
Within a maximum Ø of 44 mm
Incremental distance between holes, from 1.5 mm in the center increasing toward the edge.
Maximum number of holes: 585
Within a maximum Ø of 49 mm
253 holes of 2.4 mm diameter combined with a photo-etched membrane.
Filtering power: 150 micron
Maximum diameter of the hole area: Ø 52 mm
Such diameter enables the right equilibrium between blocking off substances that must not pass through to the cup, while extracting a full-bodied and creamy espresso coffee with its aromatic overtones.
The inner surface of IMS perforations is polished and has no corners or burrs.
These unique features allow the coffee to slip out without obstruction. The number of holes and their distribution varies from model to model in relation to the shape and height of the filter.
Some IMS codes also identify surface coatings or advanced filtering constructions.
IMS has developed a high quality coating to further improve the surface of its filters using quartz nanotechnology: the Nanotech coating. Thanks to its high non-stick potency, this coating makes it easier to remove used coffee cakes and easier to clean, rendering the antibacterial nature of the surfaces extremely effective.
IMS has created an innovative and unique product for finer filtering even using an espresso machine. The level of filtering is normally between 250 µm and 350 µm. The Super Fine filter has a filtering level of 170 µm. IMS combined the benefits of a photo-etched membrane with its own perforation technology, resulting in a cleaner espresso that accentuates the acid component of coffee.