The tip that creates the vortex in the milk jug
On an Autosteam wand, the tip decides how the steam enters the milk. This one is the Vortex version with a 1.3 millimetre hole and a 45-degree angle: the steam exits at an angle and sets the milk spinning instead of just inflating it. That is exactly what produces the fine-pored foam that pours smoothly into the cup.
Because the hole is so small, a few tenths of a millimetre of limescale or dried-on milk are enough to change the flow pattern. The vortex breaks off, it spatters, the foam turns coarse – and then it is almost never down to the technique of the person at the machine.
Descale first, then replace
Before you replace a tip, clean it thoroughly. Milk residue dissolves 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 not clear after cleaning or the edge has been damaged is a replacement worthwhile.
When it's due
The milk vortex no longer gets going, the steam spatters instead of drawing. The foam turns coarse even though the milk, jug and method are the same. The hole is visibly narrowed or out of round. The edge is damaged, for example because the tip was once loosened with pliers.
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 steam tip |
| Part number |
F.3.183 |
| Version |
Ø 1.3 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, cooled down and depressurised. We deliberately do not provide step-by-step instructions here. Tighten it with feel and a suitable spanner – pliers will ruin the edge in seconds.
Who it's for
For bars with Autosteam where the milk quality has dropped, and for businesses that fine-tune their foam quality via the tip size. If you only steam milk occasionally, thorough cleaning will usually get you further than a new tip.
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 tip with four 1.2 mm holes made of PEEK for the Linea Mini R, part number A.6.004; the short 1.1 mm tip made of stainless steel, 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 – this product; the Vortex tip Ø 1.5 mm at 45 degrees, F.3.182; 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. We therefore leave this information out rather than estimate it.
What goes with it
The larger hole is the Autosteam tip Ø 1.5 mm 45° Vortex (F.3.182) – more steam throughput, less time to incorporate the air. The wand itself is the Autosteam steam wand. Everything else is in the section Accessories and spare parts La Marzocco.
From our workshop in Bern and Zurich: We rinse Autosteam tips at the end of every shift and soak them overnight once a week. Then we hold them up to the light – if the hole looks round and open, there's no need for a new one. This is our own routine, not a manufacturer specification. As a check, we froth a jug and drink the cappuccino too, usually with the Cozy Chocolate or the Nutty Delight. If you like it stronger, take the 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 test fitting on the machine. So before ordering, check the model, year of manufacture and serial number of your machine – or drop us a line and we'll clarify the fit together. Your rights in the event of defective goods remain unaffected.
Frequently asked questions
1.3 or 1.5 millimetres – which should I choose?
The smaller hole lets less steam through and gives you more time to incorporate the air cleanly; the larger one is faster. Your service documentation tells you which one was fitted to your machine at the factory – if in doubt, send us the serial number.
What does Vortex mean?
The name stands for a design that lets the steam exit at an angle, setting the milk spinning. The documents available to us do not state how the holes are arranged in detail.
Does the tip fit a normal steam wand?
The manufacturer's specification names the Autosteam version. There are separate tips for classic wands. Ask us before you order.
Is a gasket included?
No, only the tip is supplied.
Can I see the part in your showroom and pick it up there?
Yes. We're in Bern at Gerberngasse 44 and in Zurich at Hagenholzstrasse 50b. Let us know beforehand and we'll have it ready.
Questions about the fit? Write to us at [email protected]. We deliver across Switzerland and to Liechtenstein in 2-4 working days.
