Plume – What is it in Vaping?

Definition

A plume is the visible cloud of vapour exhaled after drawing on an e-cigarette or vape device. Often called “vapour clouds” or “clouds,” plumes form when the device’s coil heats e-liquid (a mix of PG, VG, flavourings and nicotine) into an aerosol that the user inhales and then exhales. For many Australian vapers, the size, density and flavour of a plume are key indicators of device performance and personal satisfaction. While casual users simply notice the visible mist, hobbyists treat plume production as a measurable trait, adjusting wattage, airflow and e-liquid ratios to create anything from discreet wisps to competition-grade clouds.

Technical Details

Plume density is governed by the e-liquid’s VG/PG ratio: higher Glycerin)”>VG (Vegetable Glycerin) produces thicker, slower-dissipating clouds, whereas more Glycol)”>PG (Propylene Glycol) yields thinner, flavour-forward plumes. Resistance“>Coil resistance, wattage and airflow further modulate output. Sub-ohm setups (<1 Ω) at 40–120 W with wide airflow slots generate the largest plumes, while pod systems at 8–18 W create modest, cigarette-like vapour. Temperature-control or Power Mode devices let users fine-tune ramp-up time to avoid “dry hits” that can taint plume flavour. Measured plume volume ranges from <50 mL (pods) to 500 mL+ (competition RDAs). Variations include “ghost” plumes (quickly re-inhaled), “dragon” plumes (nostril + mouth exhale) and “jellyfish” tricks that layer dense and thin vapour streams.

Usage & Tips

  • Maximise VG: Use 70 VG / 30 PG or higher for thicker plumes without sacrificing wicking in sub-ohm tanks.
  • Airflow balance: Open airflow increases cloud size but can dilute flavour; adjust gradually to find your sweet spot.
  • Coil care: Prime new coils, start at low wattage and increase in 5 W steps to prevent burnt hits that ruin plume taste.
  • Battery Safety”>Battery safety: High-wattage cloud chasing demands high-drain 18650/21700 cells; check wrap integrity and use a Mod“>regulated mod.
  • Legal etiquette: In Australia, avoid exhaling large plumes in enclosed public spaces—state laws treat visible vapour like smoke.

History & Context

Early cig-a-likes (2006-2010) produced wispy plumes akin to tobacco smoke. The 2012 advent of sub-ohm tanks and high-VG e-liquids sparked “cloud chasing,” turning plume size into a competitive sport at Aussie vape expos. Today, manufacturers market “cloud” or “flavour” coils, while regulators monitor plume visibility in indoor-air debates, shaping where Australians can legally vape.

Share the Post: