IMS E&B Lab E61 Shower Screen

The IMS E61 Precision Shower Screens are designed to improve water distribution, extraction consistency, and cleanliness for E61 group espresso machines. Manufactured in Italy by IMS Filtri, these shower screens use precision photo-etched membranes and integrated filtration technology to deliver more even saturation across the coffee puck, helping reduce channeling while improving extraction balance and flavour clarity.

Compared to standard OEM shower screens, IMS shower screens offer:

• More even water dispersion

• Improved extraction consistency

• Cleaner espresso flavour separation

• Easier maintenance

• Reduced coffee residue buildup

• Better performance with modern light-to-medium roast espresso

The three most popular E61 variants are the IMS E61 200 IM, E61 200 NT, and the E&B Lab E61 200 RNT.

IMS E61 200 IM

The IMS E61 200 IM is the classic integrated membrane precision shower screen designed for E61 group heads. The membrane is manufactured directly into the body of the shower screen using IMS photo-etching technology, producing highly consistent water distribution while remaining easy to clean.

This model is ideal for baristas seeking improved extraction performance over stock shower screens without additional coatings.

Features

• Integrated membrane design

• 200 μm filtration membrane

• Precision micro-perforations

• Improved water dispersion

• Smooth surface for easier cleaning

• Excellent durability for daily use

Specifications

The IM version is highly popular because it improves extraction consistency while remaining affordable and easy to maintain. 

IMS E61 200 NT

The IMS E61 200 NT builds upon the IM version by adding IMS NanoQuartz nanotechnology coating. This hydrophobic and non-stick coating improves water flow behaviour while reducing coffee oil buildup on the shower screen surface.

The NanoQuartz coating helps create more uniform water distribution before water contacts the coffee puck, improving saturation consistency and reducing channeling.

Why the NanoQuartz Coating is Good

• Easier cleaning and maintenance

• Reduced coffee oil adhesion

• Improved water dispersion

• Better puck saturation

• More consistent extractions

• Increased corrosion resistance

• Smoother flow behaviour

Many users also notice cleaner-looking group heads and easier wipe-down maintenance compared to standard stainless steel shower screens.

Specifications

The NT version is ideal for users prioritising cleanliness, reduced maintenance, and improved extraction stability. 

IMS E61 200 RNT (E&B Lab)

The IMS E61 200 RNT is the premium E&B Lab reinforced NanoQuartz shower screen. Compared to the standard NT model, the RNT version uses a reinforced support structure with a denser perforation pattern and smaller holes to further improve water distribution and puck saturation.

This model is designed for enthusiasts and specialty coffee professionals seeking maximum extraction consistency and puck uniformity.

The reinforced membrane design also improves structural rigidity, reducing deformation even when overdosing or using higher puck resistance.

Why the E&B Lab RNT is Special

• Reinforced support structure

• More holes and denser water distribution

• Better puck saturation

• Reduced channeling

• Cleaner and drier spent pucks

• NanoQuartz non-stick coating

• Exceptional extraction consistency

• Improved performance with light roasts and precision grinders

Compared to the standard NT:

• Smaller holes

• Higher hole count

• More even shower effect

• Better flow uniformity

Specifications

The RNT version is often preferred by users running modern espresso profiles, high-uniformity grinders, and flow profiling machines because of its superior saturation consistency and extraction control.

Which One Should You Choose?

For most users:

• IM = excellent everyday precision upgrade

• NT = cleaner workflow and maintenance

• RNT = maximum performance and puck saturation

The RNT especially pairs extremely well with:

• Light roast espresso

• Bottomless portafilters

• Precision baskets

• Flow profiling machines

• High-end grinders such as SSP, DF64, EK-style, or VBM/Quick Mill/Ascaso etc.