Modular Design – What is it in Vaping?
Definition
Modular Design in vaping refers to hardware that is built from separate, swappable parts—called modules—rather than being one sealed unit. Each module performs a single job: the batterysection (mod) supplies power, the tank stores e-liquid, the coil (or mesh coil) vaporises it, and the drip-tip controls airflow. This plug-and-play approach lets Australian vapers tailor everything from battery life (measured in mAh) to draw style (MTL or DL) without buying a whole new kit. Beginners enjoy easy upgrades; advanced users can mix brands, experiment with mechanical mods, or chase bigger clouds simply by swapping one module for another.
Technical Details
Modular devices use standardised 510-threaded connections and “slide-in” pods or bayonet mounts so components lock firmly yet release quickly. Typical specs include a 22–28 mm tank base diameter, 510 drip-tip bore from 4 mm (tight MTL) to 12 mm (open DL), and spring-loaded, gold-plated 510 pins rated for ≤40 A continuous current. Battery mods range from single-18650 (≈2 600 mAh) to triple-21700 (≈12 000 mAh total). Variations cover:
- Tube mechs: single-tube body plus removable top/bottom caps for hybrid 510 contact.-in>
- Box mods: magnetic doors that accept 1–3 cells and interchangeable chip boards (DNA, YiHi, AXON).
- Pod-mod hybrids:USB-C charging board snaps out so users can swap 2 mL or 5 mL pods while keeping the 60 W board.
Usage & Tips
Before swapping modules, always power the device off and wipe the 510 threads with isopropyl alcohol to prevent arcing. When fitting a new mesh coil, prime it with 3–4 drops down the centre and let it saturate for five minutes; this avoids dry hits that can scorch cotton. If resistance jumps on a mechanical mod, dismantle and clean every contact—grit between modules is the common culprit. Match battery mAh to your wattage: a single 3 000 mAh 21700 gives roughly 400 puffs at 50 W; carry spares for cloudy setups. Finally, never overtighten; finger-snug plus an eighth-turn is enough—excess torque can strip the 510 threads and void warranties.
History & Context
Modular vaping emerged in 2010 when Aussie enthusiasts began stacking modified (hence “mod”) torchac flashlight tubes to bypass early cig-a-like limitations. The Thread“>510 thread became the de-facto standard by 2012, and today’s chip-swappable boxes and cross-brand pods trace directly back to those DIY garage builds.