Before understanding the reason why disposable vapes have a burnt smell, letβs first understand the atomization principle of vape.
The atomization principle of vape
The atomization principle of a vape involves the conversion of e-liquid (which typically contains nicotine, flavorings, and a base of propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin) into an inhalable vapor. This process takes place in a component known as the atomizer or heating element. Here’s a breakdown of the atomization principle in vaping:
E-Liquid Absorption:
The e-liquid is stored in a cartridge or tank. In some devices, it is fed to the atomizer through wicks. The wicking material absorbs the liquid and brings it into contact with the heating element.
Heating Element (Coil):
The heating element, usually a coil made of resistance wire (often kanthal or nichrome), is wrapped around an absorbent material like cotton. When power is applied from the battery, the coil heats up.
Vaporization:
As the coil heats up, it vaporizes the e-liquid absorbed by the wicking material. This process turns the liquid into vapor.
Inhalation:
When the user inhales through the mouthpiece, the airflow activates a sensor or switch (in the case of button-activated devices), signaling the battery to send power to the coil. This power heats the coil, leading to the vaporization of the e-liquid, which is then inhaled by the user.
Aerosol Formation:
The resulting aerosol (commonly referred to as vapor) is a mixture of fine liquid droplets and vaporized compounds from the e-liquid. It is this aerosol that is then inhaled into the lungs.
The efficiency and quality of atomization can be influenced by factors such as the design of the atomizer, the type of coil and wicking material used, and the power settings of the device. Different vaping devices, such as sub-ohm tanks, rebuildable atomizers (RBAs), and pod systems, may have variations in their atomization mechanisms, but the basic principle of converting e-liquid into inhalable vapor remains consistent.
There are several possible reasons why your disposable vapes taste burnt.
The most common one is that the e-liquid in the device is running low or empty, and the cotton wick that absorbs the e-liquid is dry and burnt. This can happen when you use the device for too long without replacing it, or when you take too many puffs in a short time without giving the wick enough time to soak up more e-liquid.
Another possible reason is that the battery of the device is overcharged or overheated, and the coil that heats up the e-liquid is too hot and burns the wick. This can happen when you charge the device for too long or use it right after charging, or when you expose the device to high temperatures or direct sunlight.
A third possible reason is that the device is defective or counterfeit, and the coil or the wick is faulty or poor quality. This can happen when you buy the device from an unreliable source or a fake brand, or when you get a bad batch of devices that did not pass quality control.
To fix a burnt disposable vape, you can try the following steps:
Check the e-liquid level of the device and replace it if it is low or empty. You can usually see the e-liquid level through a window or a transparent material on the device. Some of the latest devices have the function of displaying the number of puffs, which will be simpler. However, it should be noted that the number of puffs displayed is generally an approximate number. Not entirely accurate.
Clean the mouthpiece of the device and remove any debris or dust that may block the airflow or contaminate the e-liquid.
If the device is refillable, try adding some e-liquid to the wick and let it sit for a few minutes before using it. You can also try changing the pod or the cartridge if the device allows it. (It is not recommended to fill the e-liquid by yourself)
If the device is not refillable, try disassembling the device and removing the internal parts. You can then drip some e-liquid onto the wick and reassemble the device. However, this may void the warranty or damage the device, so do it at your own risk. (It is not recommended to disassemble the device)
Avoid overcharging or overheating the device and use it at a moderate frequency. You can also try lowering the power output or the voltage of the device if it has adjustable settings.
Purchase equipment from reputable sources or trusted brands such as ELF bar, Geek Bar and Flum Vape to name a few, and check the authenticity of the product before use. You can also contact customer service or the device manufacturer if you suspect your device is defective or malfunctioning.
I hope this helps. Please let me know if you have any other questions.