How Tritan Plastic Improves Cold Brew Coffee Systems

If you’ve ever wondered why some cold brew systems taste overly bitter or acidic, or why your cold brew pitcher cracks after just a few months, the answer may lie in the materials—not the beans. Choosing the right plastic matters more than you think when crafting a clean, long-lasting cold brew.

The key improvement? Using Eastman Tritan copolyester in cold brew equipment cuts acidity by 69.9%, boosts durability, and allows for a safe, reusable system without sacrificing clarity or toughness.

What Is the Hourglass Cold Brew System?

The Hourglass Cold Brew Coffee system is a two-part, non-electric cold brew maker built with Eastman’s Tritan copolyester. Its transparent design lets users watch the extraction process, and it features a stainless steel filter between two hourglass-shaped chambers. The lower chamber holds coffee grounds and cold water, while the upper collects the extracted coffee.

Why Tritan Is Ideal for Cold Brew Equipment

Eastman Tritan is a BPA-free copolyester chosen specifically for its combination of properties essential in food-contact products. It offers high toughness similar to glass, exceptional durability through repeated washing, heat resistance, broad chemical compatibility, and ease of molding. Unlike standard plastics, Tritan doesn’t become brittle or degrade easily over time—even with regular dishwasher cycles.

According to Hourglass Coffee’s market manager Kim Kapp, Tritan delivers multiple benefits beyond durability. “Our goal was to find a material that enhances user benefit,” she said. “With Tritan, we achieved a significant reduction in bitterness and acidity—dropping those elements by 69.9%—making for a much healthier cold brew experience.”

How the Hourglass System Works

The system requires no electricity. Users combine cold water and coarsely ground coffee in the lower chamber. Over time, the coffee is naturally extracted without heat, resulting in a smoother, less acidic brew compared to traditional hot-brewed coffee. The resulting concentrated cold brew can be diluted with hot or cold water depending on taste preference. Any leftover concentrated brew can be stored in the Hourglass BeanKanteen—a portable container also made from Tritan—for freezing without flavor loss.

Design and Usability Features

Beyond its functional material advantages, the Hourglass Cold Brew system is built for everyday use. Its transparent Tritan construction resembles glass but avoids the breakability. The entire system is dishwasher-safe, making cleaning simple. The minimalist, hourglass shape is both ergonomic and visually appealing, reinforcing a premium feel without added weight or risk of shattering.

Product Availability and Launch

The Hourglass Cold Brew Coffee system made its official debut at the 2009 International Home + Housewares Show. Following the launch, it became available for purchase at the Kitchen Kaboodle store in Portland. The accompanying BeanKanteen storage container, also made from Tritan, offers a complete cold brew solution for consumers looking to store and serve their coffee with consistency and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tritan plastic and why is it used in the Hourglass Cold Brew system?

Tritan is a BPA-free copolyester developed by Eastman Chemical known for its toughness, clarity, and durability. It's used in the Hourglass Cold Brew system because it mimics the look of glass but is safer, more durable, and resistant to staining and odors—plus, it helps reduce bitterness and acidity in the brewed coffee by 69.9%.

Does the Hourglass Cold Brew system require electricity?

No, the Hourglass Cold Brew system is completely non-electric. It works by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water without heat, relying on time rather than temperature for extraction.

How much does the Tritan material reduce acidity in cold brew?

According to Hourglass Coffee, using Tritan in their cold brew system results in a 69.9% reduction in bitterness and acidity compared to other brewing methods or materials, leading to a smoother and healthier cup of cold brew.

Can the Hourglass Cold Brew system go in the dishwasher?

Yes, both the Hourglass Cold Brew system and the accompanying BeanKanteen are designed to be dishwasher-safe, making them easy to clean after regular use.

Where can I buy the Hourglass Cold Brew Coffee system?

The Hourglass Cold Brew Coffee system was first made available at the 2009 International Home + Housewares Show and could be purchased at the Kitchen Kaboodle store in Portland following its launch.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Cold Brew

For the best cold brew results, try FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Yirgacheffe for bright, floral notes; Colombia Huila for balanced caramel and citrus; or Brazil Yellow Bourbon for low-acid, chocolatey smoothness. These beans are ideal for extended cold water extraction, highlighting clarity and body without harshness. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.