Welcome scratch. To perfect a microcoil it's not merely helpful but absolutely essential that it be fired. And lightly is good for starters. So true that, definitely not fired too hot (or long) but at the exact moment that such is required. As simple as possible, but not simpler.
So it's a good opportunity to interject here because I'd like the definition of a t.m.c.
tensioned (contact) micro coil to remain crystal.
A tensioned contact micro coil is one that has been wound with strain to the point of adhesion thereby assuming the shape of a coherent self-maintaining wind pulling itself taught. Like a spring, locked in the position it was wound by the heat/energy imbued in the element. However, it is not a true microcoil, anymore than one that was formed, i.e. by external pressure or heat, until it is pulsed to form the insulating alumina oxide layer which helps preserve its working geometry and resistance. The definition involves both of the criteria of form and function and applies to any wound vaporizing element created with strain which is self sustaining in geometry and exhibits the effect when fired.
While some of these definitions and explanations have been explored earlier in this and
Metalhed's earlier Protank Cotton thread I thought it time to pull them together into a proper profile for the wind.
The pulsing of a t.m.c. is a graduated progression of brief pulses of no more than a few seconds beginning with low power (or very brief pulses on a mech) as cool spots, if any, are cleared; and, graduating to a full lighting of the coil end-to end about the point that
the effect is achieved exhibiting a low yellow color return [transition light yellow to orange] when firing from center out until with the stepped application of additional power all turns glow in unison of color. In practice the end turns will typically emit in the high red zone, somewhat cooler than the central core. The progression is best achieved on a VV/VW APV to permit monitoring of interim changes and stabilization of the wind at target resistance as a cue to forego further burn-in.
While coils that are
formed are certainly
contact coils adhesion perfects an optimal proximity which ensures the maximum possible uniformity for oxidation. The wire may be wound tighter, to no significant advantage of which I'm aware, but may only be drawn thinner (perhaps weaker if excessive) beyond the point of adhesion.
A t.m.c. is not a coil formed by external pressure or compression in any manner or part, assisted by heat or not. To the extent that force is applied, the wire will attempt to resort to that geometry or orientation that was achieved by forming. Nor is a t.m.c. ever torched in any way which may impart impurities which could inhibit the uniform formation of the alumina layer compromising optimization of the coil's cohesion. It may damage the wire's surface as well also interfering with the potential for uniform oxidation.
That's the target. The cleanest wire build possible and the means to get there. Done right you get it in just about a minute between the time spent in wind and pulsing. No scrunching, no squeezing, no tweaking or fiddling.
Good luck to you all and enjoy.
