Get Wired Up!
If you're just starting to get into more advanced styles of vaping, it is crucial that you have at least a basic understanding of the different types of wire that are used to create coils. Without this knowledge, you can easily burn through your coils, resulting in a waste of money. Even worse, you can damage your vaping device or even risk explosion. Fortunately, it's easy to get a grip on how each type of wire interacts with your device.
Before we explain the characteristics of popular types of wire, you should know some basic information. For one thing, it's essential to know that the gauge of your wire will determine your overall vaping experience. The gauge number refers to the diameter of your wire. Naturally, the thicker the diameter of your wire, the longer it’ll take to heat up. When you hear people talking about the ramp time of a wire, this is what they're referring to. The longer the ramp time, the longer it takes for your e-liquid to turn into vapor.
Temperature Control (TC) Wire
One of the most popular misconceptions regarding wire is that you can purchase temperature control wire. So many devices have TC functions, resulting in a belief that these require TC wire that's designed to accommodate this vaping style.
However, there is no such thing as TC wire. In reality, there are certain types of wire that are compatible with TC modes. These types of wire include stainless steel, nickel and titanium. All three of these types of wire have a temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR). This means that they all have a characteristic that allows your vaping device to detect the appropriate current that your coil requires to heat your e-liquid properly without burning itself out.
Thanks to the amazing technology behind vaping hardware, vaping devices that have TC functions can instantly detect the material of your coil's wire and adjust the current accordingly. This means that, you can adjust your temperature however you'd like without risk of damaging your vaping components. If the coil gets too hot, the vaping device simply reduces the current, preserving the lifespan and functionality of your coil while ensuring a consistent vaping experience.
Nickel Wire
Nickel wire is strictly for TC vaping. It's popular because it can easy to mold and affordable. It must be stated, however, that if you're allergic to nickel, it is best to avoid using nickel wire in your device.
Nickel is a very soft metal, making it versatile for different coil builds. However, it doesn't hold its shape as well as other types of wire.
Titanium Wire
Titanium wire is popular among advanced vaper because it holds its shape very well and is easy to manipulate. Compatible with TC modes, titanium wire is durable and reliable.
However, many people advise against using titanium wire. When the temperature is too high, it can release toxic chemicals into your lungs. In rare cases, high temperatures have caused titanium wire to combust. While most vaping devices can keep titanium wire from overheating, many feel that it's not worth the risk.
Stainless-Steel Wire
Of all the types of wire that are available, stainless steel is the most widely used. It's easy to find, relatively affordable, easy to mold, capable of holding its shape and extremely versatile. Stainless steel wire is compatible with both temperature control modes and wattage modes. Plus, stainless steel wire boasts a fast ramp time.
Kanthal Wire
Kanthal wire is very affordable, making it very popular among DIY vapers. However, this type of wire is only compatible with wattage modes. It's easy to work with thanks to its pliability as well as its ability to hold its shape.
Because kanthal wire is so widely available, affordable and easy to work with, many people who are new to DIY vaping start with this type of wire.
Nichorme Wire
Like kanthal wire, nichrome wire is only suited for wattage modes. Because nichrome wire contains nickel, it should be avoided if you have a nickel allergy. This type of wire isn't as easy to come across as stainless steel and kanthal.
Nichrome wire is very popular because it holds its shape well and is easy to manipulate. One thing to consider is that its melting point is lower than other popular wire types.
Choose the Wire That Works For You!
Now that you know the basics when it comes to wire, you can begin your DIY vaping journey and start making your own coils.
Tags: coils, builds, wires, TC, Nickel, Titanium, Stainless-Steel, Kanthal, Nichrome, vapers, vaping