More steam throughput, same swirl
This tip is the larger of the two Vortex versions: 1.5 millimetre hole, 45-degree angle, part number F.3.182. It lets more steam through than the 1.3 and gets the milk moving faster – good for businesses that steam many jugs back to back at peak times.
The price for this is a shorter time window: with more steam, you need to have worked the air in earlier. And because the hole is still small, just a few tenths of a millimetre of limescale or dried-on milk change the whole flow pattern.
Descale first, then replace
Before you replace a tip, clean it thoroughly. Milk residue is dissolved overnight in milk system cleaner, limescale with a suitable descaler – you'll find both under Machine and grinder cleaning. Very often the tip is as good as new afterwards. Only if the hole is still blocked after cleaning or the edge is damaged is a replacement worthwhile.
When it's due
The steam spits instead of drawing the milk in. The foam turns coarse even though nothing has changed in your technique. The hole is visibly narrowed or out of round. The edge is damaged because the tip was once loosened with an unsuitable tool.
At a glance
| Type |
Steam tip for Autosteam |
| Location |
End of the Autosteam steam wand |
| Fits |
La Marzocco machines with Autosteam wand |
| Scope of delivery |
one tip |
| Part number |
F.3.182 |
| Version |
Ø 1.5 mm, 45 degrees, Vortex |
| Installation |
Installation by a qualified technician recommended |
| Brand |
La Marzocco |
Important for installation
The tip sits at the end of a steam-carrying line and gets very hot during operation. Before changing it, the machine is switched off, allowed to cool down and depressurised. We deliberately don't give step-by-step instructions here. Tighten it with a suitable spanner and a gentle touch, never with pliers.
Who it's for
For businesses with high milk throughput and for anyone who adjusts their Autosteam setting via the tip size. If you work a lot with plant-based alternatives, it's best to try the two sizes side by side – they behave noticeably differently.
The steam tips in the La Marzocco catalogue
We carry nine steam tips in the La Marzocco catalogue, spread across four designs. Which one belongs on your machine is decided by the wand, not the machine model. If you're unsure, send us the serial number and we'll check the fit together.
On the classic steam wand: the version with four 1.2 mm holes; the version with four 1.5 mm holes.
On the Cool-Touch steam wand: the version with four 1.5 mm holes.
On other wands: the PEEK tip with four 1.2 mm holes for the Linea Mini R, part number A.6.004; the short 1.1 mm stainless steel tip, A.5.180; the complete swivelling steam tip for the Linea series, T.2.126.
Tips for the Autosteam wand: the Vortex tip Ø 1.3 mm at 45 degrees, F.3.183; the Vortex tip Ø 1.5 mm at 45 degrees, F.3.182 – that is, this product; the Tornado tip at 60 degrees, A.5.148.
For none of the nine tips do our documents state the thread size or material grade. So rather than estimate this information, we leave it out.
What goes with it
The smaller hole is the Autosteam tip Ø 1.3 mm 45° Vortex (F.3.183) – less throughput, but more time for the air. The wand itself is the Autosteam steam wand. Everything else is in the La Marzocco accessories and spare parts section.
From our workshop in Bern and Zurich: When we switch a bar to the larger tip, we steam three jugs before and three after and have the same team judge both – the difference is bigger than the number on paper suggests. This is our own routine, not a manufacturer's specification. Afterwards there's cappuccino, usually made with Nutty Delight or Cozy Chocolate. If you like it stronger, go for Very Nutty; the full range is under Coffee beans.
No returns
Original spare parts are excluded from exchange and return. They are procured specifically for each order and cannot be resold after installation or a trial fitting on the machine. So before ordering, check the model, year of manufacture and serial number of your machine – or drop us a quick message and we'll clarify the fit together. Your rights in the event of defective goods remain unaffected.
Frequently asked questions
1.5 or 1.3 millimetres – which is better?
There is no better, only a better fit. 1.5 mm brings more steam and speed, 1.3 mm gives more time to work the air in cleanly. Which one was fitted at the factory is stated in your service documentation.
What does Vortex mean?
The name stands for a design that lets the steam exit at an angle and sets the milk spinning. The documents available to us do not state the exact arrangement of the holes.
Does the tip fit a classic steam wand?
The manufacturer's specification names the Autosteam version. We carry separate tips for classic wands; ask us before ordering.
Is a gasket included?
No, the tip is supplied on its own.
Can I view and pick up the part in your showroom?
Yes. We're in Bern at Gerberngasse 44 and in Zurich at Hagenholzstrasse 50b. Let us know beforehand and it'll be ready for you.
Questions about the fit? Write to us at [email protected]. We deliver across Switzerland and to Liechtenstein in 2-4 working days.
