What is the coil of an electronic cigarette?

You may already have heard the word “coil” in a conversation between vapers. It refers to a small wound wire that is essential to the working of your e-cigarette. Here is a closer look.

Taking an electronic cigarette apart: the coil

There are two kinds of vaper: those who buy their electronic cigarette from a specialist shop or online, and those who build their own device. If you belong to the second group, you absolutely need to know about the coil. It is nothing other than the heating element of your e-cigarette.

It is in fact the first component to choose if you are assembling the coil and cotton yourself. When an atomiser has only one coil, it is described as a “single coil”. If it has two, the term used is “double coil” or “dual coil”.

If you are just starting out, you can opt for a “mesh”. This is a coil in a different format, since it consists of a simple metal plate, which makes it easier to fit at first. Its job is to vaporise the e-liquid using the current running through it. In other words, it is an indispensable part.

What does a coil look like, and how do you choose one?

A coil is a metal wire wound around itself to form a kind of spring. Its two ends are straight, which is how it is fixed into the device. Coils come in various materials and formats. Some are simple, such as mesh, and others more elaborate, such as twisted, alien or clapton coils.

Depending on their size and heating surface, some will be more responsive than others. The size of the heating surface also varies. If you are looking to bring out the flavours of your e-liquids, you will need to go for a large heating surface, which also produces more vapour.

One word of warning: not all coils are universal. A kanthal coil is the one to favour for variable power or voltage. Titanium and nickel coils only work with temperature control. Stainless steel coils, finally, can be used in every mode.