Alien Coil – What is it in Vaping?

Definition

An Alien Coil is a hand-crafted rebuildable coil designed for RDAs, RTAs and other rebuildable atomizers. It consists of a thick, Wire“>flat wire core wrapped with a “de-cored” clapton ribbon that has been carefully stretched into a wavy, alien-like pattern. The result is a coil with dramatically increased surface area and deeper juice channels, delivering richer flavour and dense vapour production. Ideal for Australian vapers who enjoy sub-ohm or DLvaping, the Alien Coil bridges the gap between visual artistry and high performance.

Technical Details

An Alien Coil is built by first creating a clapton ribbon—a thin outer wire wrapped tightly around a core wire. The outer wrap is then removed from its core, stretched by 10–15 %, and re-wrapped around a parallel stack of two or three thicker core wires (commonly 26–28 GA Kanthal or N80). Typical specifications:

  • Core: 2×28 GA or 3×26 GA N80 / SS316L
  • Outer wrap: 36–38 GA N80 or SS316L clapton ribbon
  • Inside diameter: 2.5–3.5 mm
  • Resistance: 0.12–0.30 Ω per coil (dual builds halve final resistance)

Variations include Framed Staple Aliens (square core for faster ramp-up) and Tri-core Aliens (three parallel cores for heavier vapour). The wavy wrap creates micro-grooves that trap e-liquid, enhancing wicking and flavour saturation.

Usage & Tips

  • Installation: Mount coils centrally above the airflow slots. Align the wavy wrap so it faces the AFC for maximum cooling.
  • Wicking: Use medium-density cotton (e.g., Cotton Bacon Prime). Thin tails slightly to prevent choking the deep channels.
  • Wattage Range”>Wattage range: 70–120 W on a regulated Akkuträger. Start low and pulse-fire to check for hot spots.
  • Common issues: Uneven glow? Strum coils gently with ceramic tweezers. Gunking fast? Switch to a cleaner ADV e-liquid and rinse weekly.
  • Safety: Verify ohm readings on a Mod“>regulated mod before firing. Ensure batteries have ≥20 A continuous discharge rating.

History & Context

The Alien Coil emerged from the US vape community around 2015 as an evolution of the fused clapton. Instagram builders popularised its hypnotic “alien skin” look, and Australian coil artisans quickly adopted it, refining core-wire alloys and wrap gauges to suit 18650/21700 dual-battery setups common Down Under.

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