How Do Vapes Work?

Discover the inner workings of vapes with this guide, which provides an overview of their basic anatomy, the various types available, and the process that turns e-liquid into vapour.

1. Activation: Activate the vape device by pressing a button or by inhaling, depending on the device.
2. Power Up: This activates the battery, sending power to the atomisers. The battery acts as the device's heart, sending energy to the heating element.
3. Heating: The atomiser, which has a unique coil inside, receives this energy and starts heating up.
4. Vapourisation: When the coil of an e-cigarette heats up, the e-liquid that is absorbed by a wicking material surrounding the coil turns into vapour, which can be inhaled.
5. Inhalation: This vapour travels up to the mouthpiece of the vape device. The vapour takes a path up the device, like a bubble travelling through a straw, until it reaches the top.
6. Draw: Inale the vapour through the mouthpiece into your mouth and lungs.
7. Exhale: Exhale the vapour, just like breathing out after taking a deep breath, which might look like a cloud or mist.

Read More: Beginner's Guide to Vaping

There are various types of e-cigarette devices available in the market, each designed to cater to different user preferences and needs. However, most vape products fall into one of the following categories:

Vape pens and pod-based systems are small, lightweight devices with two main components. The first component is a replaceable pod that contains e-liquid, a wick, and a small coil. This can be easily inserted into the pen device and activated by a rechargeable battery built into the unit. These devices are very user-friendly as you can quickly replace the pods and recharge the device.

Vape pens and pods provide an easy way to vape, especially for those switching from smoking. Many use draw-activated mechanisms, so no buttons or settings are needed. However, some pod systems do offer basic controls such as power adjustment or battery life indicators, which provide a balance between ease of use and customisation.

The Vuse Pro is a slim, compact, pod-based device that is perfect for people who are always on the go. It is compatible with all your favourite ePod pods and comes with optimised heating technology for consistent vaping. Additionally, it has fast charging technology, LED battery indicators, and splash-proof construction for added protection.

Mods are advanced vaping devices that provide improved vapour production and flavour. They have adjustable features like variable wattage/voltage, temperature control, and the ability to use various atomisers. These devices are intended for experienced vapers and represent the premium end of vape electronics, featuring advanced circuit boards that give users extensive control over the device, digital displays, user interfaces and more.

Cig-a-likes are early e-cigarettes that resemble traditional tobacco cigarettes. They contain a battery, cartridge, and atomiser and are activated by drawing on them. Former smokers often prefer them because of their simple design and how familiar they feel. The electronics in cig-a-likes are comparatively basic, typically consisting of a small, integrated battery connected to a simple circuit. This circuit activates the heating element when the user takes a drag with minimal controls or adjustments necessary.

Disposable vapes are single-use devices pre-filled with e-liquid, ready to use out of the box. Compact, lightweight, and convenient, they eliminate the need for recharging or refilling. The entire device should be disposed of responsibly once the e-liquid is depleted or the battery dies. They are known for their simplicity, ease of use, and hassle-free vaping experience, making them an option for beginners, travellers, and those who want to try vaping without committing to a more permanent setup.

Read More: Disposable vs Rechargeable Vapes

A vape kit is a package that includes all the essential components required for vaping. The kit comes with a vaping device, a tank or pod system for holding e-liquid, one or more coils, a charging cable, and sometimes a bottle of e-liquid. Vape kits are designed to offer a hassle-free experience and are suitable for beginners and experienced vapers alike.

Read More: What Are the Different Types of Vapes?

The battery is the main power source of a vape device, responsible for supplying electricity to heat the e-liquid. Vape device batteries can either be built-in, which means they are rechargeable and non-replaceable, or external, which means they are removable and rechargeable. In the case of ePod and Vuse Pro, their batteries are rechargeable, while Vuse Go disposables have batteries that are designed for single use only..

The atomiser is a component of an e-cigarette that contains the heating element, usually made of resistance wire. When powered by the battery, the coil heats up and vapourises the e-liquid. The primary function of the atomiser is to convert the e-liquid into vapour.

E-liquid, also known as vape juice, is the substance that is turned into vapour by the atomiser in an e-cigarette or vape device. It usually contains propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavourings, and may or may not have nicotine.

This part is responsible for holding the e-liquid. In more advanced vaping devices, it's referred to as a tank, which is usually crafted from glass or plastic, allowing for easy manual refilling. In simpler devices like cig-a-likes or pod systems, it's known as a cartridge or pod, which can either be refilled or pre-filled.

The coil is a resistance wire wrapped around a wicking material that absorbs e-liquid and is located inside the atomiser. When the battery heats the coil, the liquid is vapourised, and the vapour is inhaled through the mouthpiece. 

The mouthpiece, also known as the drip tip, comes in various sizes and shapes depending on the device used.

Usually made from cotton, these soak up e-liquid within the cartridge or tank and carry it to the heated coil. Once the liquid contacts the coil, it'll transform into a vapour to be inhaled.

* These products are not risk-free and contain nicotine, an addictive substance.