Definition & Meaning of "burr mill"

What is a "burr mill"?

A burr mill is a type of coffee grinder that uses two abrasive surfaces, called burrs, to grind coffee beans into a consistent size and texture. These burrs are typically made of metal or ceramic and are positioned one above the other, with a small gap between them. When coffee beans are fed into the grinder, they are crushed and ground between the rotating burrs, resulting in a uniform grind size that is essential for brewing high-quality coffee. Burr mills are valued for their ability to produce a more consistent grind compared to blade grinders, which can result in uneven particle sizes and inconsistent flavor extraction. They come in various sizes and styles, from manual hand-operated models to electric countertop versions.