Percolator

A percolator was the preeminent device used to brew coffee. However, by the late 1970s and early 1980s, the automatic drip machines became more convenient and popular.

A percolator works by passing a liquid through a substance to create a reaction which forms a new compound. Water is the liquid, coffee beans are the substance and the result is a drink of coffee.

The original inventor of the percolator is believed to have been Benjamin Thompson. But, there are many more people who can lay claim to inventing the modern day percolating techniques.

Currently there are two main techniques used by percolators in the brewing of coffee. One boils water and pressurises it through chambers, so that the coffee is separated from the residue grounds.

The other techniques simple cycles water and the coffee grounds until the the liquid achieves a satisfactory strength.

There are a few notable pros and cons of the percolator. On the plus side, it is said to produce a strong and hot cup of coffee. But the brewing process does contain a disadvantage, the harsh brewing technique tends to stem the quality and flavour of the coffee.

But, that said, percolator will most probably always have a role in the brewing of coffee. They require no electricity source. So they can be conveniently boiled on a stove top, either in the kitchen or while camping. The original purpose of the percolator was for brewing coffee for soldier on the move.