How does an e-cigarette work

This is a really hot topic and one that deserves a great in depth answer so that you can understand exactly how an e-cigarette works, perhaps this can help you decide if vaping really is a smart idea for yourself.

First we need to look at the elements in play, we know that vapour is nothing more than steam and evaporating water droplets. However there are two elements here at work PG (Propylene glycol) and VG (Vegetable Glycerin) the underlining ingredients that make the main substance e-liquid, which are safe and FDA approved, and further information on the UK Regulations can be found at GOV.UK.

Tasty food flavouring is added to most e-liquids these days, which can smell amazing too. Nicotine is carefully added to the mix and at a certain percentage and ratio which will provide the final MG milligram dosage. Combining all these ingredients with a heating element and we have vapour.

Now what about the devices you ask? There a number of components when tearing down an e-cigarette.

Clearomizer also commonly known as a tank, this is used to store and keep the e-liquid contained. There is a drip-tip which is the mouthpiece where you inhale the vapour. Also an airflow adjustment is at the base of the tank to help control how much air can be drawn through the tank.

Atomizer or referred to as a coil which holds cotton inside to soak up the e-liquid. This is heated by the wire which is coiled in shape. The wire type used usually are made from one of the following materials, Kanthal (FeCrAl), NiChrome (Ni80), Stainless Steel (SS), Nickel (Ni200), Titanium (Ti).

Mod, Variable voltage, Wattage box This is what houses the battery or batteries and contain multiple settings and functions along with the ON/OFF and fire button. Some devices come with extra features like built in charging ports.

Batteries The most commonly used vape batteries are; 18650, 18500 and 18350 Li-Ion Lithium cells.

Hopefully we have shed some light on how e-cigarettes work, if you are interested in learning more about the history of when these life changing devices came to be, then I would suggest reading The history and how the first ecig was invented. If you are thinking of taking up vaping as an healthier alternative to smoking then I would suggest reading Where do I start vaping and what should I try first.

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