How do vape pens work? It seems like a simple question with a complicated answer, but the reality is it is fairly straightforward. Whether you want to consume flavoured e-liquids or cannabis, vape pens assist you with a sleek design and multiple functions.
Have you used a vape pen but are wondering how it operates? Let’s break down how vape pens work.
What Are Vape Pens?
A vape pen is a compact vaporizer that can slip into your pocket and resemble a pen. They are affordable and easy to use, but there are some things you have to do to keep them operational.
For the disposable variety, you buy it, open it and start vaping. There is no charging, no filling and no settings to worry about. And when they run out of battery or juice, you toss them or recycle the pieces.
A regular vape pen has more function, with multiple parts working together to give you that taste and clouds. They are rechargeable, too, so you can plug them in overnight, and they will be ready for you the next day.
The Parts
A vape pen has several components you should be aware of because knowledge is power. They include:
Battery
This gives your vape pen power and is a rechargeable, USB-connective, lithium-ion battery.
Chamber
To house your vape juice, oils and dry herb, there is either a single-use cartridge or a refillable tank.
Atomizer
The atomizer is the heating element in your pen, and it changes e-liquid and herb into the vapour you breathe in.
Mouthpiece
On the end of the vape is the mouthpiece, and this is where you inhale the vapour from.
Buttons and Indicators
Along the side and at the bottom of the pens, you will find different buttons and LED indicators for various things like letting you know it needs charging, adjusting the heating element and depressing buttons to use the device. There may also be sensors with embedded software that can tell when the pen is being used.
Vape Pens for Cannabis
You can vape whatever you want; vape pens work great for cannabis and other products. They work by activating the weed without combusting it and are distinct from smoking marijuana. Your vape pen can be used with the following:
Cartridges
THC distillate or cannabis oil goes into these small tanks, which can last several months, depending on your consumption. The disposable variety is made to use until it runs out and is disposed of.
Flower
For those that like to purchase marijuana in plant form, you can vape flower. This gives you a clean way to consume as it heats the flower until it produces vapour that is inhaled. There is no smoke and virtually no smell.
Concentrates
Concentrates are like budder, shatter and resin and require a dab pen. They work with pure concentrate and give you a clearer high.
With a vape pen, your cannabis consumption can be more discreet, and without inhaling smoke, you aren’t getting harmful chemicals and carcinogens.
No Smoke
This is part of what makes vape pens so popular. You can consume nicotine, cannabis or a variety of flavoured vape juices without breathing in and blowing out smoke. Careful temperature controls within the device ensure none of the contents get incinerated, and that makes less odour and more discretion. You also don’t affect people near you as a cigarette smoker does.
Heating Methods
Heating is the key to vaping, and several methods exist.
Convection
With this method, the vaping material makes contact with the atomizer, and hot air swirls around the juice to make vapour.
Induction
Induction involves heat passing through magnetic fields. This is not as popular, but it works well.
Conduction
This is similar to convection, except the vaping material is not in contact with the heating element.
Storage
Like with most things you carry around, you need to store them when you aren’t using them. Most people will carry these small devices in their pockets or purse, but it is a different story at home.
While most vape pens are not designed for long-term storage, you want to get the most bang for your buck, so keeping them safe and sound is the key. Find a cool, dry place to put it so it doesn’t get any direct sunlight or moisture, as this can damage the equipment and affect performance and battery life. You also don’t want pets or children to access your vape pen, so make sure it is securely stowed until you need it.
This is how your vape pen works. Understanding the ins and outs of your device is empowering and helps with your usage. Enjoy your vape pen and all the consumables you vaporize.
