Why is conduction important in the roasting of coffee?

Conduction plays a critical role in the roasting of coffee by ensuring uniform heat distribution within the bean. When coffee beans are exposed to heat during the roasting process, conduction allows for the transfer of thermal energy from the hot surfaces of the roasting machine (like drum or air) to the beans themselves. This even transfer of heat is essential, as it helps to avoid hotspots that could lead to uneven roasting and negatively impact the flavor profile of the coffee.

Uniform heat distribution is crucial for achieving specific roast levels and developing the desired characteristics in the coffee, such as aroma and flavor. Inadequate conduction can result in some parts of the bean being under-roasted while others are over-roasted, leading to imbalanced flavors. Thus, effective conduction is a vital aspect of the roasting process that ensures consistency and quality in the final product.