Hardware

What is a coil?

Nov 22, 2023

Introduction

Vaping has become a popular alternative to traditional smoking, with countless individuals making the switch in pursuit of a less harmful alternative. But have you ever wondered how those sleek vaping devices produce those flavourful clouds of vapour? The answer lies in one crucial component: vape coils. In this post, we'll explore what vape coils are and how they make vaping possible.


The Basics of Vape Coils

At the heart of every vape device, be it a starter kit or a high-end mod, you'll find a vape coil. A vape coil is essentially a piece of wire that is twisted into a spiral shape, much like a spring. This wire is typically made of materials such as Kanthal, stainless steel, nickel, or titanium. The type of wire used can significantly impact the vaping experience, including the flavour, vapour production, and overall performance.


How Vape Coils Work

Vape coils work on a simple principle: when an electrical current is applied to the coil, it heats up. This heat is then transferred to the e-liquid, causing it to vaporise. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of how it all comes together:

Power source: Your vape device, whether it's a simple pen-style vape or a more complex box mod, contains a battery that provides the necessary electrical power.

Activation: When you press the fire button or inhale through the mouthpiece, the battery sends electricity to the coil.

Resistance: The coil's resistance, measured in ohms, determines how much current flows through it. Lower resistance coils allow for more current and produce more heat, resulting in larger clouds of vapour.

Heating element: As the current flows through the coil, it heats up rapidly due to its resistance. This heat is then transferred to the e-liquid soaked in the wicking material surrounding the coil.

Vaporisation: When the e-liquid reaches its boiling point, it turns into vapour, which is then inhaled by the vaper.


Variations in Vape Coils

Vape coils come in various shapes and sizes, and they can be tailored to suit different vaping styles and preferences. Some common coil types include:

Single coils: These are the most basic and straightforward type of coil. They consist of a single wire wrapped around a wicking material. Single coils are known for their simplicity and efficiency in delivering clean flavours.

Mesh coils: Mesh coils use a flat piece of perforated metal, often in a mesh pattern, as the heating element. They offer excellent flavour and vapour production due to their large surface area.


Conclusion

Vape coils are the unsung heroes of the vaping world, responsible for turning your e-liquid into delicious clouds of vapour. Understanding how they work and the different types available can help you customise your vaping experience to suit your preferences. Whether you're a cloud chaser or a flavour enthusiast, there's a vape coil out there that can enhance your vaping pleasure. So, the next time you take a puff from your vape device, remember the essential role that vape coils play in making it all possible.