Finally decided to start using rebuildable atomizers. Need some help with some rda basics.

[windsorclarence]

So I'm completely new to rda's, but not nearly new to vaping. I've seen so many different coil builds with so many variations. Basically I need to know the rda ground rules. Also I have a few questions that if anybody could answer I'd really appreciate. I currently have a Sledgehammer mechanical mod and a Lavatube V2.5 variable volt mod. I won't be using the rda with the Lavatube because you can't use under 1 ohm with it. I ordered an Omega clone, organic cotton, 28 gauge kanthal wire and an ohm checker with a 510 connection. In a week I intend to buy an IPV2 or IPV3. As for the questions I have:
1. I've seen coils bunched and coils where the maker specifies that they must not be touching. So how should I be coiling?
2. Coils never touch the posts/walls? This seems like a biggie.
3. What's with twisted wire? Any advantages to it?
4. Is there any way I can screw this up and accidentally set my face on fire? I'd like to avoid this.
5. What effect does the gauge of the wire have? Is bigger or smaller better? I got 28 because it seemed to be a middle of the road option.
6. My buddy says organic cotton is better than that rope-like synthetic wick. Is that right?

If anybody has any answers that would be very helpful. I've got a better understanding of rda's than I did a week ago, but I'm still a bit confused. Any helpful tips or tricks would be great too.

 

[Madcowvt]

2 words that will really help you in your mission.

Rip Trippers

In all seriousness, look him up on YouTube. Personally I felt he was a big help being new to RDA's.

Once you get the basics down it really is very fun.

 

[Susan~S]

I'll give you some info regarding #4 on your list. These address battery safety, ohm's law, amp draw, etc.

If you are new to mech mods and rebuildables I highly recommend you spend some time with Baditude (our resident battery expert) and visit his blogs. You will be 100% in control of your own safety (and others around you). Make sure you purchase an ohm reader and a voltmeter or DMM so you can measure your builds, check for shorts and measure the remaining charge on your batteries.

Baditudes Blogs. The blogs regarding mods and rebuildables are listed below:

BATTERIES

9. Battery Basics for Mods: IMR or Protected ICR?
* Another essential read to understand which batteries are safe to use in mechanical and regulated mods. Includes a frequently updated list of recommended safe-chemistry, high-drain batteries with their specifications.

11. Deeper Understanding of Mod Batteries Part 1
* For those who want to learn the differences between IMR, IMR/hybrid, and ICR batteries. What do those numbers and letters on batteries mean? What's an amp rating?

12. Deeper Understanding of Mod Batteries Part 2
* Protected vs unprotected batteries - what's the difference? Ohm's Law 101. What is an AW battery? What is an inline fuse? What is stacking batteries?

17. Purple Efest Batteries Not As Advertised
* A cautionary blog that reveals that the purple Efest batteries may not have the specifications advertised. Also includes a commentary on "continuous discharge ratings" vs "pulse discharge ratings" of battery specs.

OHM'S LAW

14. Ohm's Law for Dummies (Vapers)
* My attempt at explaining Ohm's Law in layman terms and how it relates to vaping.

16. Explain it to the Dumb Noob: Ohm's Law Calculations
* As simple as it is to use, some people have a tough time grasping the concept. Warning: Includes graphic photos of mod explosions.

MECHANICAL MODS & REBUILDABLES

7. Information Resources for Your First RBA
* An essential read and reference guide for someone new to rebuilding coils. Includes a multitude of useful links on battery safety, mod safety, coil meters, coil building, and the differences in the three types of RBA's.

15. Inexpensive Mechanical Mod and RDA Setup
* A response to the frequently asked question on how to get into rebuildable atomizers with a mechanical mod inexpensively. Includes a list of commonly used tools and supplies for rebuilding and where to find them.

BATTERIES - WHERE TO BUY

Only buy batteries from a reputable supplier (not ebay or Amazon) as there are many counterfeit batteries being sold. Here are several reputable battery suppliers in the US.

* RTD Vapor
* Illumination Supply
* Lighthound
* Orbtronics

 

[*deleon517*]

1) I use both styles of coils, on rda's its very common to have each coil touching the other and not over lapping. You will want to make sure they glow from the center out first, before wicking and juicing. coils that are seperated slightly are usually more common with genesis style rba's.
2) correct any part of the coil touching beyond where it connects to the post will cause issues with shorts.
3) I used twisted wire when all I had was 32 gauge, which would simiulate a lower gauge wire like 28.
4) Sound's like you are doing lot's of research and double checking to be safe, biggest thing beyond making a good coil would be good batteries. For sub ohm you will want to be looking at 30 amp batteries.
5) the lower the number the thicker the wire. Which means its less likely to pop when getting the hang of it imho. I personally prefer 28 gauge my wife likes 32 gauge but she also builds evod style coils as where I use drippers.
6) Drippers will work better with cotton imho just as your friend says. However you can use silica but cotton is much better in terms of flavor.

hope this all helps you.

 

[eyerhere]

After susan and madcow I got nuttin.

 

[windsorclarence]

Thanks for all of the answers! I never even considered what kind of battery I'll need. Looks like I've got some more research to do.

 

[Lessifer]

1. I personally think contact coils are easier to work with and wick, but it's really a personal preference.
2. aside from where the coil legs attach to the posts, no, don't let them touch anything.
3. twisted wire is like running a dual coil(more surface area) but without having to wrap separate coils. You can lower your resistance, using two wires of the same gauge cuts the resistance in half.
4. Safety is important, this includes choosing the correct batteries, checking your coils often for resistance, shorts, and connectivity issues. Also, inspecting your batteries for damage.
5. The lower the number, the thicker the wire, the lower the resistance per inch. Once you get more proficient at building coils you'll find yourself choosing your wire gauge to get your target resistance with the build you want to do. 28 is a good place to start if you want to stick around the 0.8-1.2ohm range for single coils.
6. Again, personal preference, but you'll find most people who use drippers use cotton(organic or japanese) or rayon.