The atomization core is the core component of an electronic cigarette, directly affecting the taste of the smoke, atomization efficiency and the lifespan of the device. Aging can lead to problems such as core sticking, oil leakage and unpleasant odors. The following systematically explains how to extend the service life of the atomization core from four aspects: aging mechanism, preventive measures, storage skills, and equipment maintenance.
1. Physical loss
Heating wire breakage: Long-term high temperature leads to metal fatigue (such as nickel-chromium wire, Contael wire).
Carbonization of oil-conducting cotton: After repeated high-temperature evaporation of e-liquid, the cotton core carbonizes and hardens, hindering the oil-conducting process.
Structural deformation: Repeated disassembly and assembly lead to loosening of the atomization core or failure of the sealing ring.
2. Chemical corrosion
Erosion by e-liquid components: High sweeteners (such as sucralose) and acidic essences (such as lemon flavor) accelerate metal oxidation.
Condensate corrosion: After the e-liquid condenses, it seeps into the atomizing core, corroding the heating wire and the oil guiding cotton.
Microbial contamination: Uncleaned atomizing cores breed bacteria, which decompose the e-liquid and produce an unpleasant odor.
3. Improper operation
Excessive power: Exceeding the nominal power of the atomization core (for example, using 50W when marked as 30W) accelerates the melting of the heating wire.
Dry burning: Continuing to use when the e-liquid is insufficient leads to carbonization of the cotton core.
Frequent disassembly and assembly: Violent disassembly leads to thread wear or damage to the sealing ring.
Standardize usage habits
Power matching
Use the atomization core strictly in accordance with the power marked (for example, if it is marked as 20-30W, avoid exceeding the range).
The new atomization core needs to be "broken in" : initially, use 3 to 5 ports with low power (such as marking the lower limit of power), and then gradually increase it.
Avoid dry burning:
When the liquid level of the e-liquid drops below 1/3, replenish it in time or use a transparent e-liquid bomb to observe the remaining amount.
The continuous suction interval should be ≥5 seconds to prevent the heating wire from overheating.
Reduce violent operations:
When disassembling, use special tools to avoid damaging the sealing ring by hard prying.
Clean the base before replacing the atomization core to prevent corrosion by residual e-liquid.
Regular cleaning and maintenance
Daily cleaning
After daily use, wipe the condensate on the surface of the nebulizer with a paper towel.
Rinse the atomization core with warm water every week (except for the non-detachable type), and let it dry naturally before use.
Deep cleaning
Use an ultrasonic cleaner (detachable atomization core only) every two weeks to remove carbon deposits deep in the cotton core.
After cleaning, disinfect the base threads with anhydrous alcohol to prevent bacterial growth.
Short-term storage (1-7 days)
Keep moist
Unused atomizing cores can be dripped with 1-2 drops of e-liquid to prevent the cotton cores from cracking due to drying.
It should be sealed and stored in a dust box to prevent dust from entering the airway.
Avoid high temperatures:
The storage temperature should be no more than 30℃, and it should be kept away from heating and direct sunlight.
2. Long-term storage (> 7 days
Disassemble and store:
Separate the atomization core from the atomizer and store them separately in a sealed bag.
The cotton core part can be wrapped with cling film to prevent oxidation.
Regular inspection
Take it out every two weeks to check the condition of the cotton core. If it becomes hard or discolored, replace it.
3. Response to extreme environments
Humid environment
When storing, add a desiccant (such as a silica gel bag) to absorb excess moisture.
Avoid sealing immediately after use to prevent the accumulation of condensate.
Dry environment
The cotton core needs to be replenished with e-liquid regularly to prevent it from cracking.
Avoid storing together with plastic products to prevent static electricity from attracting dust.
Temperature control mode:
Use an electronic cigarette host that supports temperature control (such as a DNA chip), set the material of the heating wire (such as nickel 200, titanium) and the upper temperature limit (≤250℃) to prevent overheating.
Anti-dry burning protection
Select a host with resistance monitoring function, which will automatically cut off power when the resistance abnormally rises.
Spare atomization core:
Long-term users are advised to stock 3 to 5 atomization cores and use them alternately to extend their lifespan.
Suggested replacement cycle
High-frequency users (more than 50 bottles per day) : Replace every 1-2 weeks.
Low-frequency users (less than 20 bottles per day) : Replace every 3 to 4 weeks.
Using high-sweeteners/acidic e-liquid: Shorten the life cycle by one-third.
The core principle of preventing aging
Temperature control: Prevent metal oxidation and carbonization of cotton cores caused by high temperatures.
Moisture control: Prevent the cotton core from cracking or getting damp and moldy.
E-liquid control: Choose suitable e-liquid to reduce chemical corrosion.
Control operation: Use in a standardized manner, avoid dry burning and violent disassembly and assembly.
User Action List
Daily: Check the remaining e-liquid level and wipe the condensate.
Weekly: Clean the atomization core and replace the e-liquid.
Monthly: Replace the atomization core and check the sealing performance of the main unit.
Every quarter: Thoroughly clean the e-cigarette device and calibrate the resistors.
Through scientific prevention and standardized operation, the lifespan of the atomization core can be extended by 2 to 3 times, significantly enhancing the user experience and safety of e-cigarettes.