Do you want to learn more about the different vape components? Then one of the things you need to familiarize yourself with is the atomizer.
But what is an atomizer on a vape, exactly?
Let’s discuss this – and more – below.
What is a Vape Atomizer?
The atomizer helps produce the vapor/flavor you inhale when you vape. It is composed of the following elements:
- Atomizer coil. This heating element can generate temperatures ranging from 180°F and 500°F.
- Cotton wick. It helps connect the resistance coil and the cartridge (where the juice is stored.) The oil on the wick fibers travels to the e-coils, where it is heated and vaporized.
With the help of the parts mentioned above, the atomizer can perform its three essential functions:
- Holding your e-juice (as a reservoir)
- Heating the surface to vaporize the liquid
- Transporting the e-liquid from the reservoir to the heating area
The atomizer, of course, can’t work by itself. It needs the assistance of several other components, such as the following:
- This supplies the power needed to heat the coil – and produce the vapor.
- 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.
- This allows you to inhale the vapor.
The History of the Atomizer
Kender developed the atomizer in 2010. He got the idea from a model railway enthusiast who used mesh to produce steam.
Inspired by this innovation, he developed a system with a wire mesh wick saturated with liquid. He eventually called it the ‘Genesis,’ and rightly so! It did help jumpstart the revolution that is vaping.
In fact, Kender inspired Raidy, a German national who set out to create rebuildable tank atomizers the same year.
Three years later, Svoëmesto released the Kayfun 3.1, which is the first widely-distributed high-end atomizer. Nowadays, it has become one of the most replicated designs in the world.
Just a year after, Taifun GT gave Svoëmesto a run for their money by launching flavor atomizers. Thanks to these two companies, the world was introduced to the ‘cool’ era of vaping.
Different Types of Atomizers
There are many types of atomizers that you can use for your e-cigarettes. They are:
1. Cartomizer
The cartomizer is an affordable and disposable entry-level atomizer. In fact, you can buy packs of 3/5 at prices ranging from $10 to $30.
With the low price, of course, comes sub-par quality. The vapor it yields may not be as good as the others in this list. It also leaks more, so you must be careful when using it.
2. Clearomizer
This atomizer comes with a tank that is linked directly to the battery. It’s simple to use and maintain, and the tank can last for days/weeks of use.
Given these stellar features, the clearomizer can be pretty costly.
One downside to the clearomizer is you won’t be able to change flavors once you’ve filled it with cannabis oil – unless you finish the entire thing, of course.
3. Dripping Atomizer
This drip-tip atomizer is perfect if you’re looking for a pure, hard-hitting flavor. That’s because you can add 3-4 drops of vape juice directly to drip tips.
The only drawback to this drip tip atomizer is the design itself. In other words, you’ll need to pour a few drops of juice every 3 or 4 puffs.
How to Clean Your Atomizer
Cleaning your atomizer, as with other vape parts, is essential. If you keep it unkempt, dirt and residue could build up and stop your vape from functioning correctly.
The good news is you can prevent this from happening simply by following any of these three cleaning methods:
1. Cotton Bud Method
If there’s not a lot of dirt on your atomizer, you could clean it using a cotton bud and isopropyl alcohol.
Dip the Q-tip in the alcohol solution to clean the dirty coil areas. Replace the cotton bud as needed.
Be careful in cleaning your atomizer, even if you’re using a soft cotton bud. Adding excess force when cleaning may result in coil damage.
2. Atomizer Soak
If your atomizer is ridden with grime, the best way to clean it is to soak it in alcohol for 30-60 seconds. Afterward, wipe the dirt away with cotton buds.
Tip: let the atomizer dry entirely before using it.
3. Pin/Paperclip Method
If residue has built up in hard-to-reach areas, you may remove them with the help of a pin or paperclip. But do remember: after dislodging the stuck dirt, make sure to clean the rest of your atomizer.
When Should You Replace Your Atomizer?
As mentioned above, different types of atomizers come with varying lifespans. But in some cases, you may need to replace them once they exhibit any of the following signs:
- The wick appears burnt, black, or dirty.
- Your ‘new’ e-juice has changed into a dark shade right away.
- There are yellow or brown traces in your e-liquid, which means burnt materials have escaped from the wicks.
- The flavor seems ‘off’ or weak.
- You hear a gurgling noise when you inhale. This is a sign that the liquid has entered the airflow chamber – and the coils have been flooded.
- The device’s error message says ‘shorted.’ This could mean the coil is damaged or incorrectly installed.
How to Make Your E-Cigarette Atomizer Last
If you want to prolong the life of your different types of vape atomizers, then you need to follow these tips:
- Store your device upright in a room-temperature area.
- Don’t drop your vape pod!
- Refill the tank before the liquid runs out. If the wick dries out, it won’t be as effective. It will burn quickly as well.
- Replace the coils as necessary.
Conclusion
An atomizer works to vaporize the e-juice so you can inhale it. This function is made possible by its two components: the coil and the wick.
There are different atomizer types that can suit your style and budget. They are the cartomizer, clearomizer, and rebuildable dripping atomizer.
I hope I have satisfied your curiosity about the vaping atomizer! But if there’s anything else you need to know, go ahead and post your question below.
