Chain Vaping – What is it & How Does it Affect Your Device?
Chain Vaping – Comprehensive Glossary Entry
Definition
Chain vaping is the practice of taking repeated puffs from an e-cigarette or VapeMod“>vape mod in rapid succession, with little to no pause between draws. Rather than the occasional drag a smoker might take, a chain vaper inhales continuously until the device becomes warm and the e-liquid supply or battery dictates a break. For many Australian users, chain vaping is a deliberate technique used to maximise flavour saturation, generate larger vape clouds, or satisfy stronger nicotine cravings quickly. It is common among both beginners testing new coils and advanced hobbyists cloud chasing.
Technical Details
Technically, chain vaping keeps the coil and wicking cotton under constant thermal load. The coil temperature can rise 20-40 °C above normal within 30 seconds of continuous firing, increasing e-liquid vaporisation rates by up to 150 %. Standard kanthal coils (0.2–0.5 Ω) and mesh strips (0.15–0.3 Ω) are most often used because they dissipate heat quickly, whereas exotic Clapton coils retain heat longer and can overheat wicks. Most regulated mods allow 10-second cut-offs to prevent dry hits, but unregulated devices rely on user restraint. Variations include “micro-chain vaping” (2–3 second puffs, 1-second gaps) and “power-chain vaping” (4–6 second puffs, high-wattage output).
Usage & Tips
- Prime the cotton thoroughly; chain vaping exposes dry spots faster than casual use.
- Use high-VG e-liquids (70 % VG or higher) to keep the coil and cartridge saturated and reduce burnt hits.
- Lower nicotine strengths (3–6 mg freebase or 20–35 mg salts) minimise throat irritation during extended sessions.
- Allow a 15-second rest every 5–6 puffs; this lets the wick re-saturate and the coil cool, extending coil life.
- Monitor battery temperature; if the device feels hot to touch, stop and let it cool—overheating can damage lithium cells and pose safety risks.
History & Context
Chain vaping emerged in Australia around 2014 when sub-ohm tanks and high-wattage box mods became mainstream. Early adopters discovered that rapid draws produced denser vapour, fuelling the cloud chasing movement. Today, chain vaping is both a casual habit and a competitive metric in vape meets, regulated by device cut-offs and responsible battery care.