If you’re interested in expanding your knowledge on the inner workings of a vape, there’s no better place to start than with the atomizer.
This small yet essential component is responsible for transforming the E-liquid into an inhalable vapour, making it a crucial element in the overall vaping experience.
Understanding how the atomizer works can also help you troubleshoot common issues that may arise, such as leaks or burnt hits. So, let’s dive into the fascinating world of atomizers and explore their role in the vaping process in more detail.
What Is A Vape Atomizer?
The atomizer is an essential component of your vaping device that produces the vapour you inhale, regardless of whether you use a vape tank, a rebuildable atomizer, or a vape pod.
When you purchase a full vape kit, it includes a vaping device and a compatible atomizer in the same package. However, if your current atomizer has a threaded connection, you can easily replace it with a different one.
How Does Vape Atomizer Work?
The atomizer is responsible for producing the vapour and flavour that is inhaled while vaping. It comprises of the following components:
Atomizer coil: This heating element can generate temperatures ranging from 180°F to 500°F.
Cotton wick: It connects the resistance coil to the cartridge (where the juice is stored). The oil on the wick fibers travels to the e-coils, where it is heated and vaporized.
The atomizer performs three essential functions with the help of its parts:
- Holding your E-liquid as a reservoir
- Heating the surface to vaporize the liquid
- Transporting the E-liquid from the reservoir to the heating area
The atomizer requires the assistance of several other components in order to function properly, including:
- Battery: This supplies the power needed to heat the coil and produce the vapour.
- Cartridge/Tank: Available in reusable and disposable types, this component stores the juice. It only touches the wick, as a membrane isolates it from the electronic coils.
- Mouthpiece: This allows you to inhale the vapour.
What Are The Different Types of Vape Atomizers?
For those new to vaping, the atomizer is a crucial component, and there are varying types of atomizers depending on your needs.
Whether you plan to use it for a short or extended period, there are essentially three types of atomizers to choose from:
- Disposable atomizer
- Coil change atomisers
- Rebuildable atomizers
The latter is the most intricate and generally found in newer vape models. Rebuildable atomizers are further divided into three types based on their function: Rebuildable Tank Atomizers (RTA), Rebuildable Drip Atomizers (RDA), and Rebuildable Dripping Tank Atomizers (RDTA).
Disposable Atomizer
Beginning with the simplest option, the disposable atomizer, also referred to as a “clearomizer,” is the least advanced. It’s best for occasional use if you don’t want vaping to become a regular part of your routine.
Limited airflow can affect its performance and it is not designed for prolonged use. It is recommended to replace the components as they wear out. Nonetheless, the product offers benefits such as affordability and user-friendliness.
Coil Change Atomisers
This variety is slightly more intricate and is commonly utilized by most vapers. The Ohm coil, also referred to as the vape coil, serves as a key element of the atomizer and can be swapped out in this type as it wears down and alters the taste of the vape.
The majority of professionals prefer to use a coil change atomizer due to its capability to accommodate an ohm coil with superior performance. However, it’s important to note that changing the coil can be quite expensive and may require a significant investment.
Rebuildable Vape Devices
Rebuildable vapes, as the name implies, enable you to personalize your device by selecting the components you prefer, much like a Do It Yourself (DIY) project.
This grants you the freedom to adjust and exchange practically every part of your vape in any size and arrangement. Naturally, this may pose a challenge for beginners to tinker with, but once you have honed your skills, the possibilities are limitless.
The three types of rebuildable vapes are:
- Rebuildable Tank Atomiser (RTA): An RTA is a vape device with a larger tank for carrying more E-juice, making it more convenient to refill, use for longer periods, and get the most out of. This mod is ideal for power users seeking continuous clouds of sweet white flavors. It has a larger tank that thoroughly soaks the wick in liquid before delivering it to the coil at your desired speed, making it suitable for sub-ohm use.
- Rebuildable Drip Atomizers (RDA): This atomizer offers a steady e-juice flow to your coil, preventing damage. However, it needs manual dripping. Unlike RTAs, dripping requires you to manually drip the flavor after every few puffs. But, it allows you to mix and use multiple flavors simultaneously. For instance, if you have two coils, you can use one with one flavor and the other with a different flavor. Remember to drip regularly.
- Rebuildable Dripping Tank Atomizers (RDTA): RDTAs combine the benefits of other rebuildable atomizers. They have a large tank and allow for amazing builds like drippers. The deck sits on top of the tank with wicks hanging down. RDTAs hold a lot of juice, enough for a full day of vaping with a multi-coil sub ohm build. The coils and air-holes are above the tank, so they are less likely to leak than a standard tank.
Which Atomizer Should You Choose?
When choosing an atomizer, it’s important to consider your vaping style. Some vapers prioritize producing large amounts of vapour, while others focus on enhancing the flavour of their E-liquids. Luckily, there are atomizers designed to cater to both preferences.
Your preferred vaping technique, whether it’s direct lung inhalation or indirect inhalation (also known as MTL or “Mouth to Lung”), also plays a role. Other factors to consider include different airflow options, the atomizer material and design, and, of course, your budget.
When Should You Replace Your Atomizer?
As mentioned earlier, atomizers have varying lifespans depending on their type. However, there are instances where you may need to replace them, such as when they show any of the following signs:
- The wick looks burnt, black, or dirty.
- Your e-juice has quickly changed to a dark shade.
- There are yellow or brown traces in your E-liquid, indicating that burnt materials have escaped from the wicks.
- The flavour seems weak or ‘off.’
- You hear a gurgling noise when inhaling, indicating that liquid has entered the airflow chamber and flooded the coils.
- The device displays an error message saying ‘shorted,’ which could mean the coil is damaged or incorrectly installed.
How To Make Your Vape Atomizer Last?
If you want to extend the lifespan of your various types of vape atomizers, then follow these tips:
- Store your device upright in an area with room temperature.
- Be sure to handle your vape pod with care and avoid dropping it.
- Refill the tank before the liquid runs out.
- Replace the coils as necessary.
Verdict
Vape atomizers are essential components that produce the vapour and flavour when vaping. They come in different types, including mouth-to-lung tanks, direct-to-lung tanks, rebuildable tank atomizers, and vape pods. When choosing an atomizer, consider your vaping style, airflow options, and budget.
Signs that you need to replace your atomizer include burnt wicks, dark e-juice, weak flavour, and error messages. To extend the lifespan of your atomizer, store it upright, handle it with care, refill the tank before it runs out, and replace the coils as necessary. I hope I have answered all your questions about the vape atomizer! If you have any more, feel free to connect me.
FAQ
Is an atomizer the same as a coil?
Although they are technically atomizer heads, they are commonly referred to as coils in the vaping world. The coil is a component located inside the atomizer and is considered a fundamental part of your vaping experience – like the heart to your vape mod’s body.
Do all vapes have an atomizer?
Every vape device, ranging from the simplest disposable vape to the most sophisticated vape kit, technically includes an atomizer. Without it, the device would not be able to vaporize e-liquid, and it would not be considered a vape.
How long does an atomizer last in a vape?
In general, most new coils are designed to last somewhere between 7 to 21 days. However, it’s worth noting that this duration may vary depending on how well you care for and clean your device.
Do all atomizers fit all mods?
Tanks and mods are pretty interchangeable these days, as long as they have the 510 connection. The only problem you may run into (depending on tank/mod) is that some mods offer more wattage ranges, and you don’t want a tank that requires so much wattage your mod won’t support it well, causing poor battery life.