Vaping has grown tremendously over the past decade, evolving from a niche hobby to a mainstream alternative to traditional smoking. At the core of any vaping device is the vape tank, a crucial component that holds the e-liquid and houses the coil, which heats the liquid to create vapor. Understanding vape tanks, their types, and their features is essential for both beginners and seasoned vapers. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about vape tanks, from their anatomy to choosing the right one for your needs.
Anatomy of a Vape Tank:
A vape tank might seem simple, but it's composed of several essential parts that work together to deliver a satisfying vaping experience. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
- Drip Tip (Mouthpiece): This is the part of the vape tank where you inhale the vapor. Drip tips come in various shapes and materials, including plastic, metal, and resin. The size and material can affect the vapor's temperature and the overall mouthfeel.
- Tank Reservoir: This section holds the e-liquid. Vape tanks come in different capacities, typically ranging from 2ml to 8ml. Though they might be heavier, larger tanks need to be refilled less frequently.
- Coil: The coil is the heart of the vape tank. It is a small heating element, usually made of wire and cotton, that vaporizes the e-liquid. Coils come in different resistances, which influence the amount of vapor produced and the flavor intensity.
- Airflow Control: Most modern vape tanks include an adjustable airflow ring that allows you to control the amount of air that mixes with the vapor. More airflow results in larger clouds, while less airflow provides a more intense flavor.
- Base: The base of the tank is where the coil is connected to the mod. It also typically contains the 510 threading that allows the tank to be screwed onto the mod.
Types of Vape Tanks:
Vape tanks are categorized based on their design and the kind of vaping experience they offer. These are the most typical kinds:
1. Sub-Ohm Tanks:
Sub-ohm tanks are designed for direct lung (DL) vaping, which mimics the experience of taking a deep breath directly into the lungs. These tanks use coils with a resistance below 1 ohm, allowing them to operate at higher wattages and produce large clouds of vapor. They are ideal for vapers who prioritize vapor production over flavor.
Key Features:
- High wattage compatibility
- Large vapor production
- Wide bore drip tips
- Often use mesh coils for better flavor and longevity
Pros:
- Intense flavor and massive clouds
- Wide range of e-liquid flavors are enhanced
- Suitable for advanced vapers
Cons:
- Higher e-liquid consumption
- Not suitable for nicotine salts or high nicotine e-liquids
2. Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Tanks:
MTL tanks are designed to simulate the draw of a traditional cigarette, making them popular among former smokers. These tanks use coils with a resistance above 1 ohm, which operate at lower wattages, producing less vapor but delivering a stronger throat hit.
Key Features:
- Tight airflow for a restricted draw
- Smaller vapor production
- Higher nicotine compatibility
Pros:
- Excellent for nicotine satisfaction
- Lower e-liquid consumption
- Discreet vapor production
Cons:
- Less suitable for cloud chasing
- May not enhance complex e-liquid flavors as well as sub-ohm tanks
3. Tank Atomizers that can be rebuilt (RTAs):
RTAs offer the best of both worlds, combining the convenience of a tank with the customization of a rebuildable atomizer. Users can build their own coils, providing a highly customizable vaping experience.
Key Features:
- Customizable coil builds
- Refillable tank reservoir
- Adjustable airflow
Pros:
- Highly customizable vaping experience
- Cost-effective in the long run
- Great for flavor and vapor production
Cons:
- Requires knowledge of coil building
- More maintenance than pre-built coil tanks
Requires knowledge of coil building:
RDAs are for vapers who want the ultimate in flavor and vapor production. Unlike other tanks, RDAs don't have a tank reservoir. Instead, users drip e-liquid directly onto the coil and wick before each puff.
Key Features:
- No tank reservoir
- Customizable coil builds
- Best for flavor and vapor production
Pros:
- Unparalleled flavor intensity
- Customizable coil options
- Immediate wicking ensures fresh flavor with each puff
Cons:
- Inconvenient for on-the-go vaping
- Requires frequent dripping
5. Pod Tanks:
Pod tanks are a hybrid between pod systems and traditional vape tanks. They are typically used with pod mods, offering the convenience of a pod with the versatility of a tank. Pod tanks are especially popular among beginners due to their simplicity and ease of use.
Key Features:
- Simple design, often magnetic connection
- Compatible with pod mods
- Typically use replaceable coil heads
Pros:
- Easy to use and maintain
- Compact and portable
- Good for nicotine salts and high nicotine e-liquids
Cons:
- Limited capacity and airflow options
- Less vapor production compared to sub-ohm tanks
How to Choose the Right Vape Tank:
Selecting the right vape tank depends on your vaping style, experience level, and personal preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
1. Vaping Style:
Determine whether you prefer direct lung (DL) or mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping. If you enjoy large clouds and deep inhales, a sub-ohm tank is ideal. For those who prefer a draw similar to smoking a cigarette, an MTL tank would be more suitable.
2. E-Liquid Compatibility:
Consider the type of e-liquid you use. Sub-ohm tanks work best with low nicotine e-liquids (3mg or 6mg), while MTL tanks are more suitable for higher nicotine strengths and nicotine salts.
3. Ease of Use:
If you're a beginner, you might want to start with a pod tank or a sub-ohm tank with pre-built coils. These are easier to use and maintain compared to RTAs or RDAs, which require more advanced knowledge.
4. Portability:
If you need a device that's easy to carry around, consider a compact tank with a lower capacity. Larger tanks offer more extended vaping sessions without refilling but are bulkier.
5. Customization:
For vapers who enjoy tweaking their devices, RTAs or RDAs provide the ability to build and customize coils. However, they require more maintenance and knowledge, making them more suited for advanced users.
Maintenance and Care of Vape Tanks:
Proper maintenance of your vape tank is essential to ensure it performs optimally and lasts longer. Here are some tips:
1. Regular Cleaning:
Disassemble your vape tank and clean it with warm water regularly. This helps prevent e-liquid residue buildup, which can affect flavor and vapor production. Make sure to dry all parts thoroughly before reassembling.
2. Coil Replacement:
Coils have a limited lifespan, typically lasting between one to two weeks, depending on usage. Replace the coil when you notice a burnt taste or a decrease in vapor production.
3. Avoid Over-Tightening:
When assembling your vape tank, avoid over-tightening the parts. Over-tightening can cause damage to the threads and create issues with the tank's connection to the mod.
4. Use the Correct E-Liquid:
Ensure you're using the appropriate e-liquid for your tank. High VG e-liquids are ideal for sub-ohm tanks, while higher PG e-liquids or nicotine salts work better in MTL tanks.
Vape tanks are a vital component of the vaping experience, and choosing the right one can significantly impact your satisfaction. Whether you're a cloud chaser, flavor enthusiast, or someone transitioning from smoking, there's a vape tank suited for your needs. Understanding the different types of tanks, their features, and how to maintain them will help you get the most out of your vaping experience. With the right tank and proper care, you can enjoy a flavorful, satisfying, and enjoyable vape every time.
