To build an in-expensive, simple cooling pan that works very well, you will need: One of those 5 gallon buckets like at the bakery or Home Depot WITH THE COVER. A large stainless steel mixing bowl, a couple draw hasps (National Hardware # N208-512 V35) (Bungee cords will work - if you're less mechanical). A 1x1 (1 gallon/1 hp) shop vac. I bought one yesterday at Wal-Mart for $19.99 and a wooden spoon. Cut the top of the bucket so the steel bowl fits snug on top of the bucket. Drill several hundred little (1/8" or smaller) holes only in the bottom of the bowl (colander will not work because the holes go up the sides). Cut a little hole 3 - 4 inches from the bottom into the side of the bucket so the vacuum cleaner hose will fit into the bucket SNUGLY. With the steel bowl snugly fastened on the top and the shop vac snugly in the hole you will have a very strong downward draft through the holes in the bottom of the bowl. This makes an excellent cooling pan!

There are other, even easier ways including a 12 inch box fan blowing downward with a colander resting on top. For more information on cooling beans and cooling pans email at: info@u-roast-em.com .

Next time you roast, make an effort to cool your roast as quickly as you can and taste the difference. When everything is done right, your coffee will be noticeably better in the cup and that is why we roast our own.
About the Author

Jim Cameron is a 30 year veteran in the Specialty Coffee Industry and charter member of the SCAA (Specialty Coffee Association of America). Having sold his roasting business, Jim now uses the skills and contacts with importers and brokers developed in 30 years of roasting to purchase, cup and sell green beans to the home roasting trade. His company found at: http://www.u-roast-em.com is a great source for green coffee beans you