Resistance Wire Question

[Huffelpuff]

Definately not a pro yet but I've been really enjoying using genny attys for a while and have some on order. Here's the question:

I have three spools of resistance wire. Of the two spools of wire that I'm currently using, one of them is labeled "N-6 32 AWG and the other is unlabeled - but is 32 gage. They both seem to work fine.

I recently placed an order for 30 gage to try it, and it is labeled "K-A 30 AWG"

Can anyone tell me what the letters refer to? Is there any reason to order one type over another?

Sorry for the noob question but want to know what I'm working with.

Thanks for any advice!

 

[Ictinike]

K = Kanthal
N-6 = Nichrome 60%
N-8 = Nichrome 80%

The numbers are the gauge.

Also check here for a breakdown on the other info. Good info/thread!

 

[Huffelpuff]

Thanks! is there any big difference between the two? Mostly interested in finding out if there are any reasons why i should not use one or the other.

 

[Ictinike]

It comes down to preference and usability.

Some swear by Kanthal and others by Nichrome. I've read the Nicrhome is easier to work with while wrapping a coil un-tempered and is less "springy" than Kanthal. I've also read Kanthal burns a bit cleaner tasting but that is subjective.

One thing I'm fairly sure is that the products from China and Asia typically come installed with coils done in Nichrome as I believe it's a bit stronger in tensile strength and can survive shipment better. If you've ever vaped a Chinese clone atomizer it more than likely came with Nichrome over Kanthal; again from what I've learned/read.

I have both and haven't used my spool of Nichrome but may make some coils up today and test differences so I have more info to work from (lol)

 

[Huffelpuff]

Thank you so much for the free lesson on resistance wire.... I really appreciate the advice. The thread that you referred me to was perfect.